Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal Discharge- What Does It Mean?

Vaginal discharge naturally fluctuates throughout a woman's life, particularly during significant phases such as pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, and transitions from young adulthood to perimenopause and menopause. This discharge is a normal physiological process resulting from the interaction of hormones, vaginal bacteria, and the cells of the vaginal wall. The presence of bacteria plays a crucial role; they facilitate the formation and maintenance of discharge, help balance pH levels, and keep vaginal tissue healthy. When patients express concerns about changes in their vaginal discharge—such as increased amount, unusual odor, or shifts in color—providers often ask, "Is this a normal or abnormal change?" Key symptoms to consider that might indicate an underlying infection or medical issue include:

• Odor
• Color
• Consistency
• Timing of onset
• pH level (acid-base balance)
• Presence of pain or irritation
• Itching
• Amount
• Recurrence

These symptoms help guide appropriate testing and evaluation. Common sources of vaginal discharge can be categorized as follows:

**Normal discharge: Vaginal discharge is generally a healthy finding. The vaginal bacteria produce lactic acid, which maintains a balanced pH, helping to prevent certain infections.

**Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This condition arises when vaginal pH becomes less acidic, leading to an overgrowth of specific bacteria. BV is the most common cause of vaginitis, and many women may be asymptomatic. Those who do experience symptoms often report changes in odor and discharge, along with possible irritation. It is not classified as a sexually transmitted disease; however, it can occur more frequently after intercourse or during menstruation. If you suspect you have bacterial vaginosis, please schedule an appointment for antibiotic treatment.

**Yeast Infection: Most yeast infections are caused by the Candida species and are the second most common cause of vaginitis. If you’d like to know more about yeast infections or other aspects of vaginal health, feel free to ask!

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can indeed be associated with changes in vaginal discharge. Notable STDs to consider include:

**Trichomoniasis: Caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, this infection can lead to a frothy, yellow green discharge with a strong odor. It may also cause itching and discomfort.

**Gonorrhea: This bacterial infection often results in increased vaginal discharge, which may be yellow or bloody. It can also lead to painful urination and pelvic pain.

**Chlamydia: Similar to gonorrhea, chlamydia can cause abnormal discharge and may lead to pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse. Many women experience no symptoms at all.

**Syphilis: This STD can sometimes present with ulcerative lesions around the genital area and may also lead to discharge. Early treatment is essential to prevent complications.

**Herpes: Caused by the herpes simplex virus, this infection may result in painful blisters or sores in the genital area. Discharge may vary, and some women may experience flu-like symptoms.

It’s important to note that many women may not exhibit symptoms even when infected with an STD. If you suspect a sexually transmitted disease, seeking medical care promptly for testing and treatment is crucial to prevent complications and the spread of infections. If you have any more questions or need further information, please contact our office to schedule an appointment by calling (571) 425-4100 or book online.