What is vaginal discharge?

Many women do not understand what vaginal discharge is and often try to get rid of it through increased personal hygiene. However, secretions are a natural secretion of the mucous membranes, which has its own unique functions, like many other biological fluids in the human body - blood, saliva, gastric juice. Its absence may also indicate the presence of pathology, as will a change in color or amount of discharge.

It is necessary to distinguish between pathological discharge and normal discharge. A gynecologist can advise a woman about their nature in the most correct form; the patient herself is only required to be attentive to her body and the ability to distinguish its normal state from a state in which any abnormalities are detected. In order to understand which discharge is normal and which is not, you need to know about the symptoms of some common abnormalities and diseases of the genital organs.

Normal vaginal discharge and causes of abnormalities

The easiest way is to first determine the list of normal types of discharge in women that should not frighten you:

• A mucous, clear discharge, possibly profuse, appears before ovulation.
• Discharge of a creamy or jelly-like type and heavy nature is natural in the first half of the menstrual cycle.
• Creamy or jelly-like scanty discharge is characteristic of the second half of the cycle.
• White or clear liquid discharge may persist for some time after sexual intercourse.
• Bloody or reddish streaks may appear in the discharge before ovulation.
• Brown discharge is normal in the first weeks of taking hormonal contraceptives.
• White, odorless discharge during pregnancy, which may intensify throughout pregnancy.

Most normal discharge during the menstrual cycle may change in consistency and color, becoming thick, thin, whitish or clear, but should not have an unpleasant odor. The presence of such discharge is a normal condition for an adult woman, but with the development of certain types of diseases or conditions, deviations from the norm and the appearance of discharge of a different color or consistency are possible.

Among the most common causes of deviations in the color of discharge:

• pregnancy;
• menopause;
• recent birth;
• taking certain types of drugs;
• diseases of the genital organs;
• venereal diseases.

With each of these deviations from the usual lifestyle, there may be various variations in the color and thickness of the discharge, the appearance of an unpleasant odor, or other features characteristic of a particular condition.

Clear vaginal discharge

Transparent discharge is the most harmless and natural type of discharge in women. They can appear at any period of the menstrual cycle and consist of dead cells, mucous secretions, lactic acid bacteria, vaginal microflora and other waste products common to a given environment. Their quantity rarely becomes abundant, and there is no smell at all. But the appearance of a faint sour odor should not be scary either, since it can be caused by lactic acid bacteria, which are normally found in any female secretions.

Transparent discharge with different variations is characteristic of:

• The period of puberty in girls (from 10 years old) - at this age the body begins to prepare for the gradual activation of the reproductive systems of the organs, and discharge can be very abundant. However, they do not have any odor and do not cause discomfort.
• Approaching ovulation - at this time the amount of discharge increases to a maximum 1-2 days before ovulation.
• The first phase of the cycle is thick and transparent mucus.
• The second phase of the cycle is scanty and thick discharge.

However, in some cases, even such discharge can cause discomfort. This is possible if a woman has a disease or inflammatory process. If an unpleasant odor has been added to the clear discharge, itching in the genital area, urination or sexual intercourse is accompanied by pain, then you should visit a gynecologist, since the presence of such symptoms may indicate the development of the disease. The most common diseases with these symptoms include:

• Endometritis - the amount of vaginal mucus increases, which may also be accompanied by the appearance of blood clots and a sharp, unpleasant odor.
• Salpingoophoritis is an inflammation that is also characterized by increased mucus secretion and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.
• Cervical diseases - bloody impurities are usually found in the discharge.
• Dysbacteriosis or bacterial vaginosis - a characteristic smell of rotten fish appears, the discharge is thin, watery, sexual intercourse usually causes pain, and hyperemia occurs on the outer part of the genitals.

Green discharge

The green color of discharge is a pathological type, since it serves as a symptom of a whole list of sexually transmitted diseases, as well as inflammatory processes, during the development of which leukocytes fight infections and enter the vaginal secretion in large quantities.

Some of the most common causes of green or yellow-green discharge include:

• Bacterial vaginosis is a different type of inflammation caused by bacteria. The reason for their development can be either infection from a sexual partner, or ordinary stress or the beginning of pregnancy. There may be itching and burning in the genital area.
• Trichomoniasis - green discharge may be almost the only symptom of this dangerous disease, which is extremely difficult to diagnose. To confirm it, you must undergo a special test, so the presence of green discharge should certainly be a reason to visit the clinic.
• Thrush, or candidiasis, is also sometimes accompanied by greenish discharge of a jelly-like or curdled appearance.
• Pregnancy – green discharge may appear at the very beginning of pregnancy due to changes in the woman’s body and changes in hormonal balance. Despite the fact that this is a normal physiological process, it may result in the activation of latent infections, which also requires consultation with a gynecologist.
• Gonorrhea is an extremely dangerous disease, which also requires a mandatory visit to a gynecologist and a course of treatment.
• Inflammatory process - with it, the discharge, as a rule, takes on a yellowish-green appearance.

Green color of discharge is an unhealthy variant of the norm, which can be attributed to any part of the menstrual cycle. The presence of discharge of a similar color always indicates changes in a woman’s body, which must be taken seriously.

Yellow discharge in women

Yellow discharge may be normal if its quantity is limited and there is no odor. Many changes in a woman’s body, both natural and pathological, can provoke such discharge. Discharge with a similar color can be normal only in cases where:

• The amount does not exceed one teaspoon per day.
• There is no smell.
• The shade is muted, dim.
• The discharge is watery, without clots and with a uniform consistency.

In other cases, yellow discharge can be both normal and a sign of pathology. Among the most common causes of such discharge are the following:

• Recent birth. Within 6-8 weeks after childbirth, a woman may experience yellowish discharge, which is not accompanied by significant discomfort. This is the norm for this period, however, there is always a possibility of infection, since at this time the female body is especially sensitive to various types of infections. Therefore, if the discharge bothers a woman or is accompanied by any discomfort, she should consult a doctor for advice and determine the reasons for the presence of yellow discharge.
• Adnexitis is an inflammatory process in the genital organs.
• Salpingitis is also an inflammation.
• Vaginitis is an inflammation of the mucous tissues of the vagina, which is usually accompanied by pain and itching during sexual intercourse.
• Gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis are sexually transmitted diseases that are often accompanied by yellowish-green discharge, clearly indicating an inflammatory process. Another important symptom of these diseases is the sharp and unpleasant smell of rotting fish.

Any of these reasons needs to be checked by a doctor and appropriate treatment prescribed. If unusual yellow discharge appears, you should definitely contact the clinic for testing.

White discharge

White discharge is normally present in any woman. Often their number increases before menstruation, after it ends and during pregnancy. Such discharge is also called “leucorrhoea,” and it should not bother a woman as long as its quantity remains small, the consistency is uniform, and there is no unpleasant odor. In other cases, white discharge may be a symptom of a sexually transmitted disease, fungal infection, or inflammation. Among the most commonly diagnosed causes of white discharge are:

• Vaginitis is an inflammation that occurs in the vaginal mucous membranes.
• Adnexitis is an inflammation of the internal genital organs.
• Incorrectly selected personal hygiene products.
• Prolapse of the vaginal walls and colpitis.
• Thrush, or candidiasis.
• Taking hormonal drugs for a long time.
• Some types of douching that wash away flora from the vagina.
• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules.

The amount of white discharge can increase sharply before ovulation, so it is extremely difficult to judge the development of the disease during this period by their presence. If leucorrhoea is present in large quantities at other times of the cycle or is accompanied by unusual conditions and symptoms, then you should definitely visit a gynecologist to rule out infection and diseases of the reproductive system.

Bloody discharge

Bloody discharge is considered the most dangerous and can be a symptom of many diseases, depending on its color, abundance and smell. This type of discharge should alert a woman if the amount of discharge is large and is accompanied by other symptoms - pain, itching, burning. Such discharge may be a symptom of:

• cervical erosion;
• fibroids;
• endometritis;
• sarcomas;
• cancer;
• adenomyosis;
• tumors.

Since the entire list of diseases consists of diagnoses that are extremely dangerous to a woman’s health and life, such discharge should definitely be a reason to visit a doctor. However, spotting does not always mean the presence of any serious illness. In some cases, they may indicate other deviations from the normal state:

• The appearance of polyps, small ulcers, warts and other growths in the genitals, which become a source of anxiety and bleeding.
• Infection in the genitals.
• Too dry vaginal mucosa can cause such discharge after sexual intercourse. Such cases occur especially often in women whose age is close to menopause.
• After an abortion.
• Taking the wrong type of hormonal contraceptives.
• The onset of menopause - during this period, spotting in small quantities at different times is considered normal.

Any of these reasons requires an examination by a gynecologist and tests to make a diagnosis. Only if a disease or pathology is detected, a doctor can prescribe treatment that will help get rid of such discharge.

Black discharge

Black discharge is usually a variant of bloody discharge, when the color is too dark, and the discharge itself is characterized by increased thickness and heterogeneous consistency. Such discharge can also be either normal at certain periods or pathological. A similar color of discharge can serve as a symptom of the following diseases and abnormalities:

• Metabolic and endocrine system dysfunctions.
• Sudden changes in weight – both obesity and loss of fatty tissue.
• Long-term inflammatory processes or infections.
• Consequences of chemotherapy.
• Stress.
• Hormonal imbalance due to various reasons.
• Endometriosis.
• Endometrial hyperplasia.
• Taking incorrectly selected hormonal contraceptives or abruptly canceling them.
• Polyps on the genitals.
• Some systemic diseases of the body.

To determine the exact cause of black discharge, you should consult a doctor who can prescribe the appropriate tests, conduct an examination and determine the appropriate type of medication. The reasons for such discharge can be very different, so only a specialist can make a specific diagnosis.

Discharge with odor

Not only the color of the discharge and its quantity, but also the smell can serve as a sign of the presence of a genital disease or pathology. Normally, vaginal discharge has no odor at all or has a faint sour odor. If there is an unpleasant odor that resembles rotten fish or fermented milk products, then this is a sure sign of the presence of a sexually transmitted disease, inflammatory process or infection.

In most cases, the smell of discharge may indicate the following diseases and conditions:

• Inflammation caused by microorganisms. In such cases, the amount of discharge is usually very large.
• Disturbances in the body's metabolic system of various natures.
• Changes in the hormonal balance of the body for any reason.
• Consequences of a long course of antibacterial therapy.
• Violations of the rules of intimate hygiene of the genital organs.
• Pregnancy.
• The consequences of douching using strong antibacterial agents, as well as simply long courses of douching, washing out the vaginal flora.
• Development of cancer of the genital organs.
• Consequences of chemotherapy.
• The presence of candidiasis, or thrush.
• Development of bacterial vaginosis.
• Gonorrhea.
• Chlamydia.
• Trichomoniasis.

This is not a complete list of possible problems, the symptom of which is a change in the smell of vaginal discharge. These are much more common than others. In any case, contacting a gynecologist is the right decision if you have discharge with an unusual odor. The sooner the cause of such a change is determined, the easier it is to get rid of it and the faster treatment is carried out.

Treatment of discharge

Treatment of any discharge should take into account several factors - the cause of its appearance, the type of disease or abnormality in the body, the period of the menstrual cycle and other characteristics of the body of each woman. In order for the treatment to be correct, diagnostics are carried out to determine the cause of the discharge. As part of such a diagnosis, you may need:

• passing cytology;
• smear for STDs;
• blood test for various diseases (depending on the nature of the discharge);
• cultural research;
• pH-metry – study of the acidic environment of the vagina;
• mycological study of samples taken.

If necessary, your doctor may order other tests, but for most common diseases, several tests are sufficient. Treatment begins only after the doctor has made an accurate diagnosis, since it will consist of a set of drugs with special effects. For sexually transmitted diseases this is one set, for inflammatory processes - another. Also, if pathologies are detected, additional tests, surgery or conservative therapy may be required. Therefore, medications prescribed by a doctor should never be replaced with analogues without his permission.

Among the most common diseases and methods of their treatment:

• Trichomoniasis - drugs such as Ornidazole, Metrinidazole, Nimorazole, Tinidazole are prescribed.
• Bacterial vaginosis – Clindamycin, Metronidazole (in the form of gel or tablets), Clindamycin, Ornisid forte.
• Candidiasis (thrush) - antifungal drugs, Clotrimazole (in the form of vaginal tablets and cream), Irunin, Orungal, Isoconazole, Fluconazole, Mycomax, Flucostat.

These are the most frequently prescribed special-purpose drugs that are used in the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases and fungal infections, but a specific type of drug is prescribed only by a doctor after examination and testing. Self-medication is ineffective and even dangerous, so you must follow the advice of specialists and always consult a doctor before starting to take any drug.

Discharge before and after menstruation

The presence of copious, transparent, odorless discharge in the second half of the menstrual cycle and before menstruation is a normal condition for the female body, since this is how it reacts to the approaching menstruation. The presence of a small amount of dark brown or brown discharge no more than two days before the onset of menstruation is also not a pathology. But if your period is more than two days away, then such discharge may indicate the development of certain types of genital diseases.

The same applies to discharge after menstruation. Dark brown discharge that persists for more than two days can also be a symptom of abnormalities, which may include:

• chronic inflammatory processes occurring in the uterus or appendages; endometriosis;
• sexually transmitted diseases;
• various dysfunctions of the reproductive system;
• cervical erosion – if discharge appears before menstruation.

Discharge before menstruation may also indicate the presence of systemic diseases that affect the functioning of many organs, not just the reproductive system. These may include hematological abnormalities and adeomyosis.

If such discharge bothers a woman repeatedly, and is also accompanied by other symptoms - pain, itching, burning in the genital area, changes in the smell of the discharge and its quantity throughout the menstrual cycle, then you should definitely consult a doctor for an examination and treatment.

Discharge during sexual intercourse

The nature of discharge during and after sexual intercourse changes significantly, which often becomes a cause of concern for women. Normally, the discharge may acquire a thicker consistency, and its quantity increases during sexual intercourse and for several hours after it. If the discharge has turned white, but does not have an unpleasant odor, this is also within the normal range, since this is what old, used lubricant looks like. Its presence in a woman’s body is not only natural, but also necessary. The absence of such discharge may indicate dryness of the vaginal walls, which is a pathology.

But sometimes during and after sexual intercourse, dark or bloody discharge appears, which can be a symptom of certain diseases and disorders:

• Mechanical damage to the vagina - can occur after too intense sexual intercourse, the discharge is profuse and accompanied by pain in the vaginal area.
• Sexually transmitted diseases - with chlamydia, such discharge after sexual intercourse is not uncommon, since microorganisms destroy the mucous membranes and make them sensitive to any influences.
• The presence of an inflammatory process in the genital organs.
• Polyps of the cervical canal, the removal of which requires a series of tests.
• Cervical cancer - spotting during sexual intercourse is often the only symptom of the development of this dangerous disease, so if they appear, you should definitely consult a doctor to rule out an oncological process.

If such discharge bothers you and is accompanied by other symptoms, then the woman needs to consult a gynecologist and determine the reason for the presence of pathological discharge during sexual intercourse.

Discharge in girls

Discharge, which is normally present in all adult women, in girls may indicate the presence of an inflammatory process or vulvovaginitis. This disease is rare in adults, since the vaginal microflora is too acidic for the development of coccal flora, but in childhood girls have not yet developed natural protection against this pathogen.

The presence of copious discharge in girls before puberty may indicate the following abnormalities:

• Bacterial vulvovaginitis - its symptoms will be hyperemia of the external genital organs, ulcers, yellow discharge.
• Enterobiasis provoked vulvovaginitis - the proliferation of worms in the genital area.
• Exudative diathesis - this disease often provokes dryness of the mucous membranes of the genital organs and hyperemia.
• Candidiasis (thrush) is a fungal disease that can occur due to stress and deterioration of the immune system.
• If there is a foreign body in the vagina, this problem is relevant for young children. Children can unknowingly injure themselves by trying to insert a foreign body into their ear or nose - all parents know this, but they can also injure their genitals in the same way.
• The presence of trichomoniasis - the presence of green discharge may indicate infection with this disease. It is sometimes transmitted through household contact, and is almost always transmitted from mother to newborn baby.
• Infection with chlamydia, herpes or mycoplasmosis is possible during intrauterine development and childbirth, and also later through household contact from adults.
• Manifestation of an allergic reaction to hygiene products or underwear.

Regardless of the reason for the appearance of discharge in a girl, you should always consult a doctor, since in childhood their presence may indicate serious pathologies or diseases that require treatment.

Discharge before and after childbirth

Pregnancy changes a lot in a woman’s body, so talking about the cause of any discharge can often only be done after an examination by a gynecologist. However, there is a list of common reasons for the appearance of discharge before childbirth:

• At 37-38 weeks and later, after examination by a gynecologist, brownish discharge may appear - this is normal, since at this time the fetus is already ripe, and the uterus is preparing for subsequent births.
• A large amount of mucous discharge indicates the removal of the plug. Sometimes blood may appear in them, but if the pregnant woman does not feel discomfort, this is also normal.
• The presence of thrush - the discharge will be thick and white, with a cheesy consistency. Before giving birth, you should definitely see a doctor and begin timely treatment for this disease, since it can be transmitted to the baby at birth.
• Placental abruption is diagnosed during the period close to childbirth and can be quite dangerous if the necessary measures are not taken. If there is heavy bleeding, you should immediately consult a doctor.
• Transparent liquid discharge may be a sign of the release of amniotic fluid, which can also be dangerous before childbirth and requires consultation with a doctor.
• Fetal hypoxia - green or yellow discharge. The same discharge can appear when infected with certain types of sexually transmitted diseases, and therefore require mandatory check-up by a gynecologist.

Most of these causes can be eliminated if the pregnant woman quickly consults a doctor. Therefore, the appearance of any unusual discharge during pregnancy, and even more so before childbirth, should be a good reason to visit a doctor.

Discharge after abortion

After a medical abortion, various types of discharge are possible - both dark and bloody, this is a consequence of the action of the drug, which provokes cell rejection according to the principle of miscarriage. But discharge after a surgical abortion may be a sign of infection or other complications remaining after the procedure. The following are common causes of discharge after an abortion:

• Normal blood clotting is brown discharge that can appear up to 10 days after an abortion.
• Polyps are light brown discharge, accompanied by painful sensations during sexual intercourse.
• Endometriosis is a disease that often occurs as a consequence of abortion.
• Endometritis - pain during the restoration of the menstrual cycle, is considered normal only if it does not cause significant discomfort, otherwise a mandatory gynecological examination is required, since endometritis can later become endometriosis.
• Bacterial infections of various origins - their sign is yellow discharge, sometimes with a greenish tint.
• Sexually transmitted diseases - chlamydia, trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted diseases can provoke an increase in the amount of yellow or greenish discharge after an abortion.

Any of these consequences requires a doctor's examination and, if necessary, appropriate treatment. Therefore, if unusual discharge appears after an abortion, you should definitely contact a specialist to get tested and clarify the diagnosis and the reasons for such changes.

Moderate discharge in women should be present normally. On the contrary, it would be unnatural if they were not there, since the vagina should not be dry. Another question is what exactly normal vaginal discharge should be like. Color, smell, and consistency matter. If at least one of these parameters is out of bounds, then you need to think about whether everything is okay with women’s health. The nature of the existing discharge can be quite informative for a specialist.

Physiological vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge is the result of the coordinated work of the entire female reproductive system and at the same time is an indicator of women's health. Normally, 1-5 ml of such vaginal fluid can be released during the day.

You should not be surprised at the change in the nature of vaginal discharge during the same menstrual cycle. The color and consistency of the discharge should change depending on the current phase of the cycle. They can be either slimy and transparent before and during ovulation, or creamy, whitish or yellowish in the second phase of the cycle.

Natural causes of increased discharge: sexual arousal, ovulation, pregnancy.

These mucous membranes are produced transparent discharge glands of the cervical canal of the cervix, because the vagina does not have its own glands. The glands located in the vestibule of the vagina also make their “contribution”. The discharge also includes a small amount of effusion from the blood vessels of the vagina and discharge from the uterine cavity. Vaginal discharge should not have any obvious, much less unpleasant odor. White discharge in women may acquire this shade due to dead vaginal epithelium.

The yellowish color of the discharge may remain for some time after the end of menstruation, as well as after sperm has entered the vagina.

Such secretions are necessary to cleanse the genital tract, prevent dryness and irritation of the vagina, and to protect against pathogenic microflora. Insufficient production of vaginal fluid leads to frequent infections and pain during sex.

The normal acidic environment of the vagina promotes the vital activity of various “good” bacteria, which also protect the female body from infections. However, they do not always succeed - various inflammatory and infectious processes are not uncommon among women of reproductive age.

Pathological vaginal discharge

1. If the discharge has acquired an unusual color and (or) an unpleasant odor (fishy, ​​sour smell) and is accompanied by itching, irritation or pain, then such discharge is already pathological in nature and may indicate various inflammatory processes in the reproductive system.
2. Red or brown spotting, streaks or blood clots in the discharge: hormonal imbalance, cervical erosion, endometrial hyperplasia, chronic, polyposis, endometriosis, intrauterine device, neoplasms, ectopic pregnancy, cervicitis.
3. Copious greenish or yellowish discharge: adnexitis, cervical erosion, prolonged bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections (gonorrhea, trichomoniasis).
4. Abundant white discharge: bacterial, .
5. Foamy discharge: trichomoniasis, other sexually transmitted infections.
6. Curdled white discharge: or thrush.
7. Abnormal abundance of discharge is typical.
8. An unpleasant odor accompanies almost all discharges associated with sexually transmitted infections; it is also present with bacterial vaginosis and chronic endometritis.

Sometimes a change in the nature of the discharge is not associated with any inflammatory or infectious diseases and occurs as a result of stress, diet, douching, the use of detergents not intended for the intimate area, lack of proper hygiene and some other factors. In such cases, the balance usually adjusts itself within a few days. However, in any case, you should not self-medicate; sometimes it is very difficult to establish the natural vaginal microflora. At the slightest suspicion, it is recommended to visit a gynecologist, thanks to which it will be possible to avoid the development of unpleasant consequences in the form of inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs.

The most common complaint that a gynecologist hears when examining another patient is a complaint about discharge. And every time he has to explain that vaginal discharge is a completely normal phenomenon. It would be much worse if a healthy woman did not have them. Professional gynecologist Maria Smirnova explains what, how and why in this article.

But discharge is not always good, and this is worth paying special attention to. For a healthy representative of the fair sex, leading an appropriate lifestyle, they should not have a sharp unpleasant odor, their consistency should not be like cottage cheese, and their quantity should not become a cause for concern, but should be moderate. Yellow, green and any other similar shade does not indicate normal discharge. It is also worth considering that during ovulation the amount of discharge increases, and they themselves often become more liquid. The same applies to pregnancy. And before menstruation, on the contrary, they become thicker and may acquire a brownish color.

Normal discharge in girls and women

Girls who are not sexually active should carefully monitor their health and constantly monitor the nature of vaginal discharge. Discharge is a natural means of self-cleaning. Passing through the cervix and beyond, they take with them everything unnecessary - for example, old dead cells. They lubricate the female genital organs from the inside, creating a kind of barrier against viruses and infections. Simply put, this is a kind of wet cleaning of the female reproductive organs, which allows you to always maintain cleanliness and prevent infections.

With the right healthy lifestyle, girls' discharge does not have any odor: it is almost transparent, but a whitish tint is allowed, without lumps or compactions. On normal days, their amount should not exceed one teaspoon per day, but during ovulation and before menstruation there may be a little more.

Unfortunately, often, due to the not yet fully formed menstrual cycle, young girls are very susceptible to such a disease as vaginal thrush. The first sign of such an ailment is a change in the nature of the discharge; it becomes white, has a sour or milky odor, and the consistency resembles cottage cheese or just a mass with compacted inclusions.

When else should you see a doctor?

A girl should visit a gynecologist’s office as soon as possible if:

vaginal discharge changed color, became thicker, increased in quantity, or began to smell differently than usual;

you notice itching, burning or swelling in the perineal area;

feel pain in the pelvic area;

there is pain when urinating.

Normal discharge in women is considered to be the same as in young girls, that is, it should be odorless, practically colorless, not very thick, but not too runny. They should not cause discomfort. During ovulation, before menstruation, during sexual arousal, during and after sexual intercourse, their number increases significantly, and they may become more liquid - this is not a pathology and not a reason for concern and anxiety.

Women's health specialists do not yet know all the reasons why women may experience abnormal discharge, which is typical in the presence of infections, but most of them are directly related to unprotected sex. You may also be at risk if:

Here are some tips to help prevent vaginal infections that lead to abnormal discharge:

1. Keep your vagina clean by washing your vagina at least three times a day. This should be done with mild baby soap or without it at all, and preferably with boiled water: naturally, it should be clean and warm.
2. Never use scented soaps - only specialized intimate hygiene products or regular, unscented baby soap are suitable for these purposes. Also forget about the contrast shower.
3. After visiting the toilet, wipe only from front to back and nothing else. In this way, you will prevent the penetration of bacteria from the anus into the vagina, which cause many exclusively female diseases.
4. Avoid clothing that is too tight. Underwear should consist of 100% only natural cotton.

Normal discharge during pregnancy

During pregnancy and lactation, leucorrhoea (the so-called vaginal discharge) is released more abundantly, compared to normal, “non-pregnant” life. This is due to an increase in hormone levels and improved blood supply to the genital organs. Towards the end of pregnancy, when the baby's head presses on the cervix, the leucorrhoea becomes even more abundant and thicker. In a normal pregnancy, they should be white or transparent, odorless, and not cause any discomfort: no itching or burning. On linen they may have a yellowish tint. Changes in the color and smell of discharge are a reason to contact a therapist or gynecologist who is managing your pregnancy.

Please be especially aware that vaginal discharge may be a sign of infection if it:

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Vaginal discharge is divided into physiological, normal for a certain age and stage of the menstrual cycle, and pathological associated with genital diseases. It is impossible to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe a course of treatment based on a single symptom, but the appearance of a discharge different from the norm gives reason to contact a gynecologist and undergo an examination.

Normal the discharge consists of a mixture of mucus, dead epithelium and microbial cells, the secretion of the Bartholin glands located in the vestibule of the vagina. They contain glycogen, a nutrient for beneficial microflora, and lactic acid, a waste product of lactobacilli. Glycogen levels are highest on the day of ovulation. Normally, there is clear or whitish discharge, the consistency is mucous, with small lumps or homogeneous, without an unpleasant odor, in a volume of up to 4-5 ml per day.

Beli

Copious vaginal discharge or scanty, but atypical in character or smell, is called leucorrhoea. Leucorrhoea creates a constant feeling of wetness, burning and itching in the perineal area. Reasons copious discharge - inflammatory processes ( , ); infectious diseases of the urogenital organs, nonspecific or STDs; tumors or injuries of the internal genitalia; allergic reactions to latex, spermicidal lubricants, underwear and hygiene products for intimate areas.

By origin, vaginal discharge is distinguished, uterine and tubal (watery, large in volume) and cervical (thick, scanty).

Leucorrhoea with pus is a symptom of inflammation,bloody ones are often associated with the development of a tumor; curdled or white flakes are characteristic of thrush; orange and greenish with a putrid odor - for gardnerellosis (bacterial vaginosis);foaming ones appear with trichomoniasis.

Leucorrhoea may appear after long courses of contraceptives, after douching with antiseptics; for constipation and a static lifestyle, leading to stagnation of venous blood in the pelvis. Prolapse of the vaginal walls, microtrauma of the genitals after sexual intercourse, and ruptures of the perineum also cause the formation of leucorrhoea.

Mucus discharge is normal

The first mucous discharge is observed in newborn girls, the appearance of secretion is associated with residual amounts of maternal hormones. After 3-4 weeks, the discharge disappears and appears again by the age of 8-11 years, when the production of own estrogens increases. Mucus is secreted periodically, looks like raw egg white or rice water, has a sour smell, color – white with a yellowish tint.

Next, during puberty, cyclic vaginal discharge appears. The beginning of the cycle is considered the first day of menstruation; in the 1st half of the cycle and until its middle, which coincides with ovulation, there is less discharge. They are mucous or watery, homogeneous, possibly with small lumps. In the middle of the cycle - mucous and abundant, viscous consistency, possibly beige or brownish tint.

After ovulation Jelly-like discharge, similar to jelly. The content of lactic acid, which is produced by lactobacilli, increases in them, and the discharge acquires a sour odor. Increased acidity protects the vaginal mucosa, which during this time period is more loose and vulnerable to infection. Before menstruation, the volume of mucous discharge increases again.

Discharge during pregnancy liquid and abundant, whitish or transparent. Before childbirth, the cervix dilates, and the cervical plug comes out in the form of a rather large clot of mucus, possibly mixed with scarlet blood. Usually the release of the plug coincides with the first contractions. If there is more vaginal secretion than usual, then you should go to the gynecologist: perhaps amniotic fluid is “leaking.”

The presence of liquid blood or bloody clots in the discharge suggests an ectopic pregnancy, a threat of miscarriage pregnancy, atypical position (presentation) or placental abruption. All options are dangerous; at any moment they can be complicated by bleeding and result in death. A pregnant woman who notices the appearance of scarlet blood from the vagina should immediately lie down, then immediately call an ambulance.

White discharge

During puberty, vaginal discharge may be a result of inflammation intestines, bladder, uterus or ovaries. These episodes contain pain associated with urination, intestinal colic or pulling sensations in the lower abdomen and lumbar region. The temperature may rise, a blood test will show signs of inflammation (leukocytosis, increased ESR): then treatment for inflammation will be needed.

10-12 months before the onset of the first menstruation, the vaginal mucosa reacts to hormonal changes and liquid, transparent or white discharge is formed, the color of very diluted milk, odorless or sour. No measures need to be taken if there are no complaints of burning or itching in the perineum, and the discharge does not take on a cheesy appearance.

After the onset of sexual activity, the consistency and composition of the discharge changes, the reason is the addition of the partner’s microflora, which is different in composition from the vaginal flora. It takes time to adapt, different in each case, and the situation will return to normal again. During the adaptation period, the volume of secretion increases, the discharge becomes more liquid, with a pale yellowish or whitish tint. A change in sexual partner is almost always associated with a change in the nature of vaginal discharge.

After unprotected sexual intercourse, the discharge normally first takes the form of yellowish or white clots, and after 5-8 hours the secretion turns into liquid and abundant. After protected intercourse, white and thick discharge appears, resembling lubricant.

Taking contraceptives or breastfeeding reduces normal secretion: vaginal discharge is scanty and thick, white or yellowish in color.

gives white curdled discharge, abundant, sour in smell. Sometimes the discharge resembles yellowish curd lumps or white flakes. The disease is accompanied by itching and swelling of the genitals, irritation of the skin of the perineum. The development of candidiasis is a sign of decreased immunity.

curdled white coating in the vagina due to thrush

Thrush is often combined with STDs(, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis) and, manifests itself in metabolic diseases (diabetes mellitus) and tumors. Candidiasis definitely requires treatment.

Video: vaginal discharge - normal and pathological

Yellow and green discharge

“Colored” vaginal discharge occurs with STDs, bacterial vaginosis (gardnerellosis), and nonspecific genital inflammation.

With STDs, leucorrhoea is always accompanied by pain and burning associated with urination.

: when examining the vagina, visible yellow discharge, emerging from the cervical canal and flowing down the walls of the vagina. Leucorrhoea is accompanied by pain in the lower back and lower abdomen, and enlargement of the Bartholin glands. The diagnosis is confirmed by PCR analysis.

: leucorrhoea profuse, foamy, greenish or yellowish, with a pungent putrid odor. They can flow onto the perineum, inner thighs and cause skin irritation.

: the volume of discharge is moderate, color yellowish-white. May be accompanied by bleeding that does not correspond to the cycle, pain of the “lowered belt” type - lower back, lower abdomen, inner thighs. With gonorrhea, a putrid smell of leucorrhoea is often encountered; a change in their color from grayish-white to yellow indicates the transition of the acute stage of the disease to the chronic stage.

: Leucorrhoea profuse, grayish-white, with the smell of rotting fish. Sticky, yellow-green and even orange discharge is typical for an untreated, long-term disease. The itching is not severe, it occurs periodically. All symptoms worsen immediately after sexual intercourse.

Nonspecific vaginitis(colpitis): with this disease, leucorrhoea is the main symptom. The type of vaginal discharge varies depending on the severity of the process. When the vagina is inflamed, the secretion becomes acidic in reaction, viscous and stretchy in consistency, or abundant and liquid, and loses transparency. Leukocytes give a cloudy white tint,the yellowish-green color is due to the presence of pus,yellowish-pink – blood. At the initial stages of inflammation, serous leucorrhoea is liquid, watery; then they transform into purulent ones - thick, green, with a strong putrefactive odor.

and adnexitis: inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. They may manifest themselves as specific complications caused by an ascending venereal infection with an STD, or “ordinary” inflammation of the internal genitalia. Discharge is always accompanied by abdominal pain; in the acute period - periodic, cramping and strong, in the chronic stage - medium and low intensity, constant, dull, pulling.

Let's summarize. Causes of yellow and green leucorrhoea:

• foamy discharge is a characteristic sign of an STD;
• copious discharge is typical for the acute stage of colpitis, adnexitis and salpingitis;
• scanty leucorrhoea - for chronic adnexitis and salpingitis.

Brown and pink discharge

Associated with the presence of blood in vaginal discharge; may appear for physiological or pathological reasons.

Physiological reasons:

1. Small brown ones pink or scarlet discharge in the middle of the cycle: the laundry does not get dirty, the color is visible only on sanitary napkins or toilet paper. Secretion signals that ovulation has taken place, which helps plan pregnancy.
2. Pinkish and brownish discharge– the norm for the end of menstruation, when complete rejection of the endometrium has occurred and the proliferation phase (growth of new endometrium) begins.
3. Bloody discharge while taking hormonal drugs. If they continue for more than three cycles, then it is worth changing the contraceptive and being examined by a gynecologist.
4. Cervical mucus discharge mixed with bright blood- in pregnant women before childbirth.

Pathological causes

Pathological causes may be: sexually transmitted diseases (gonorrhea), endometritis, uterine tumors, endometrial hyperplasia, polyposis, cervical erosion, endometriosis.

For gonorrhea the infection rises from the vagina upward, affecting the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Appearance blood in the form of veinsamong mucopurulent discharge and intermenstrual bleeding are signs of an ascending gonococcal infection. A confirmed diagnosis is made after the test, which must be positive for gonorrhea, or after the detection of gonococci in it.

– inflammation of the functional uterine layer, which is updated after each menstrual cycle. Brown leucorrhoea, associated with endometritis, appear before and after menstruation; it is also possible to discharge brownish mucus in the middle of the cycle. Almost always, inflammation of the endometrium is combined with its hyperplasia (proliferation) and menstrual bleeding, often the cycle is shortened. Heavy bleeding leads to anemia, the hemoglobin content drops to 50-70 g/l (the norm for women is 120-140 g/l). The woman feels constant fatigue, shortness of breath and dizziness appear even with minor physical effort.

Endometrial hyperplasia is considered a precancerous condition.

To return the endometrium to normal, you must first cure the inflammation. The course of antibiotics lasts at least 3 months, drugs are prescribed for 3 menstrual cycles.

Endometriosis – overgrowth of glandular tissue (endometrium) in the cervix and muscular layer of the uterus (myometrium), fallopian tubes, ovaries, and abdominal organs. Endometrial cells end up in unusual places during abortion, during instrumental examinations of the uterus, during childbirth and during the return of menstrual mass. Endometriosis spreads i, leads to numerous local inflammations and formation adhesions; common complication - infertility.

Typical nagging pains during menstruation, bloody discharge from all foci of endometrial growths. At colposcopy small multiple nodules or cysts, bluish or red stripes are visible on the cervix. Bloody brown leucorrhoea becomes lighter after menstruation, its volume decreases during this period and increases again before the next menstruation. Endometriosis of the abdominal organs is a common cause of internal bleeding and subsequent surgery (laparotomy).

Cervical erosion: violation of the integrity of the mucous membrane; during examination, acetic acid, 3-5% solution, is used to determine the boundaries of erosion. After smearing the surface with acid, erosion is visible as a whitish spot on a pink background. When erosion occurs, small bloody discharge appears, and its amount increases after sexual intercourse.

Bloody discharge due to cancer

Endometrial hyperplasia accompanied by spotting brown or bloody discharge before and after menstruation. Acyclic uterine bleeding is possible: it lasts for a long time, up to several weeks or even months, and leads to anemia. The disease develops due to hormonal imbalance, problems with lipid and carbohydrate metabolism (obesity, diabetes), hypertension, after gynecological operations, with a hereditary predisposition, as a consequence of STDs - after inflammation of the uterus, with endometritis.

For treatment, combined estrogen/progestin drugs are used, and for severe bleeding, endometrial curettage. A biopsy is required to assess the degree of cellular atypia and proliferation of glandular tissue. If cancer is suspected, the examination is repeated.

Polyps in the uterus– these are elongated growths of the endometrium, symptoms of polyposis often become brown discharge and postmenstrual bleeding. There may be discomfort during sexual intercourse, and immediately after it there may be spotting brownish discharge. The causes of the formation of polyps are considered to be an imbalance of estrogens and gestagens, inflammation of the endometrium and cervical canal. Small polyps are discovered by chance; large ones (more than 2 cm) are manifested by pain in the form of contractions and increased menstrual blood loss. The main complication is infertility; the transition of polyposis to a malignant tumor has not been proven.

Tumors in the uterus in the later stages they are manifested by bleeding, in the early period – by spotting vaginal brown discharge. Tumors of the uterus are divided into benign(polyps, fibroids and fibroids) and malignant(endometrial cancer and myosarcoma, cervical cancer). Leucorrhoea with pus and scarlet blood, possibly foul-smelling, is characteristic of the disintegration of a tumor; with cervical cancer, thick discharge appears, scanty, streaked with blood. Submucosal fibromatous nodes always produce severe bleeding, that is, they are clinically malignant. Cervical cancer quickly metastasizes, spreading to the pelvic lymph nodes, liver and lungs, and can spread to the vaginal walls.

Video: discharge in women, expert opinion

Smirnova Olga (gynecologist, State Medical University, 2010)

Vaginal discharge in women is a consequence of certain processes in the body. Mucus from the cervical canal performs important functions of the reproductive system. And based on the state of the secreted fluid, a disorder can be diagnosed at an early stage of development.

What kind of discharge in women is considered normal?

There is no clear picture of what a healthy woman's discharge should be like. However, doctors claim that the norm of discharge in women has the following relative characteristics:

1. Volume. A few milliliters per day, but not more than 5 ml. You can determine it by looking at your panty liner, on which the stain should not exceed 1 or 1.5 cm in diameter.
2. Consistency. . Quite thick, but without lumps. Watery ones are allowed only during a certain period of the cycle, during pregnancy and with strong arousal.
3. Structure. Homogeneous without lumps, large clots or flakes. Minor compactions up to 4 mm are allowed.
4. Aroma. due to the environment of the vagina, but more often the odor is completely absent.

To assess your condition, you need to study what color the discharge should be:

• transparent;
• white;
• beige;
• yellow.

The importance of the secret and its composition

Many women try to get rid of any vaginal discharge, considering it unnatural and pathological. But cervical fluid or mucus plays an important role in the functioning of the reproductive system and maintaining women's health.

Normal vaginal secretion has the following composition:

1. Cellular and fluid components. The uterine mucosa is constantly renewed, old cells die off, join the vaginal fluid and come out. Plasma and lymph transudate may be present.
2. Cervical mucus. The cervix contains special glands that produce secretion, thereby protecting the reproductive system from penetration and further proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms.
3. Bacteria and fungi of the vaginal flora. Sexual microflora contains not only beneficial lactobacilli, but also conditionally harmful microorganisms in small quantities. In a healthy girl, these pathogens die and come out along with vaginal secretions.
4. Leukocytes. Based on their content, the presence of an inflammatory process can be diagnosed. The norm limit is 10 pcs. in the smear, but minor deviations are allowed.

Female secretions have many functions:

• self-cleaning of the vagina;
• maintaining healthy microflora;
• fight against harmful bacteria, rods, fungi;
• natural hydration during sexual intercourse;
• removal of dead cells;
• protection of the fetus during pregnancy.

The most important purpose of vaginal secretion remains the early warning of a woman about unfavorable processes in the reproductive system.

What affects vaginal secretion

Ovulation. The fertile period is characterized by the release of a large amount of fluid, which easily stretches between the fingers, resembling snot or the white of a chicken egg. The mucus may be white, transparent, or beige in color. Sometimes an admixture of blood appears, which indicates a favorable moment of conception.

Second phase of the cycle. Vaginal secretion becomes much smaller, sometimes it disappears completely. The liquid has a creamy or jelly-like consistency.

A few days before menstruation, spotting is allowed, which signals the approach of monthly bleeding.

The nature of normal discharge in women (photo above) varies according to the time of the cycle, but this is not the rule for every case. Sometimes they continue to be produced in large quantities and remain liquid without discomfort, which indicates a hormonal surge or lack of progesterone.

Reasons for minor deviations

It is important to find out what discharge is considered normal from the vagina under certain conditions. The nature of secretion can be changed without the presence of diseases of the reproductive system:

• pregnancy;
• premenopause;
• menopause;
• recent birth of a child;
• lactation period;
• taking birth control pills;
• treatment with certain drugs.

Depending on the specific reason, the consistency, quantity and color of natural discharge in women changes, but not for long. You should consult a doctor if the vaginal fluid has an unpleasant odor or there are other symptoms such as itching, burning, or severe pain.

How to determine the disease

The most common cause of pathological discharge in women is a violation of the vaginal microbiocenosis. Changes in the normal functioning of the vaginal microflora are caused by non-compliance with genital hygiene or excessive douching with water or special solutions.

Problems with vaginal self-cleaning also arise against the background of:

• use of antibiotics;
• hormonal treatment;
• taking oral contraceptives;
• diabetes mellitus;
• weakened immune system.

It is advisable to study the nature of discharge in girls in terms of color and smell, since these two signs will help you understand what is happening in the body and whether there is a reason to contact a gynecologist and undergo the necessary tests.

Transparent

Even colorless vaginal mucus may indicate certain disorders:
Inflammation of the endometrium or appendages. The amount of cervical fluid with an unpleasant odor increases against the background of endometritis and andexitis. In advanced cases, the mucus contains blood clots.

Dysbiosis. The disease is accompanied by redness of the external genitalia, abundant watery fluid from the vagina,.

White

The type of vaginal discharge in women plays a significant role in studying the current state of the reproductive system. Knowing the characteristics of normal vaginal secretions, you can promptly identify the disease at an early stage and, with the help of a doctor, select treatment.