Vaginal Discharge Specialist

What is vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is something a healthy vagina normally produces. Glands in your cervix and vagina generate a fluid that traps bacteria and dead cells and removes them to keep you clean and help prevent infection. The fluid has a specific acidity and a healthy balance of bacteria.

This healthy vaginal discharge may vary in odor, color, and quantity throughout your menstrual cycle. The discharge could be clear or whitish, and you're likely to produce more of it when you ovulate or feel sexually aroused.

The problem arises when infection sets in, which changes the color, consistency, and smell of your vaginal discharge. You might also feel an itching or burning sensation in your vagina or vulva.

What causes an abnormal vaginal discharge?

Abnormal vaginal discharge is usually a result of a change in the healthy fluid's acidity and levels of normal bacteria. These changes may be a result of:

• Bacterial vaginosis
• Yeast infections
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Diabetes
• Post-surgical pelvic infection
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Trichomoniasis (a parasitic STD)
• Vaginitis
• Cervical cancer
• Birth control pills
• Taking antibiotics or steroids
• Using douches or scented soaps and lotions

The type of vaginal discharge you have may indicate the cause. For example, a yeast infection causes a thick, white, lumpy discharge, while bacterial vaginosis produces a white, yellow, or gray discharge with a fishy odor.

To confirm the cause of an abnormal vaginal discharge, your gynecologist at Miami Women's Health Associates takes a sample of the fluid for testing.

What treatments are available for abnormal vaginal discharge?

The treatment you need for your vaginal discharge varies depending on the cause. Antifungal medications are effective in resolving yeast infections, while bacterial vaginosis requires a course of antibiotics.

To prevent infections and abnormal discharge, you should try and maintain the natural balance of your healthy vaginal fluids. Avoid using anything scented when you wash – all you need is mild soap and water.

Sprays and douches are not only unnecessary; they can damage the healthy environment of your vagina and encourage abnormal discharge.

You don't need to feel embarrassed about vaginal discharge, and in most cases, treating the cause is a straightforward process. Call Miami Women's Health Associates to schedule a consultation with a compassionate gynecologist, or book an appointment online today.