Is vaginal discharge only pathological?

General
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Many women have complaints of white or watery discharge from the vagina. But should all discharge be considered as a cause of worry? No! Sometimes excess vaginal discharge is because of underlying physiological changes.

What is normal discharge?:

It is usually watery or white in colour and does not have any characteristic smell or odour.

Excess discharge due to physiological changes:

  • Puberty

  • Pregnancy

  • Around ovulation

  • Before menstruation or periods, etc.

Pathological reasons:

  • Infections

  • Non infective cervical lesions

  • Uterine prolapse

  • Pelvic inflammation

  • Diabetes

  • Overall ill health,etc.

How to differentiate?:

  • discharge that is watery, white, odourless ,occurs without any itching or irritation, occurs usually during periods of physiological changes may not be a cause of great worry

  • When discharge is associated with smell, curd like or greenish yellow, reddish, present throughout the cycle, causes itching and irritation,it is better to consult a doctor.

Hope you find this useful. Kindly share your insights.

(Disclaimer: This article is only for information and awareness, it shouldn’t be used as a tool for diagnosis. Kindly visit a doctor for any concerns.)

MBH/PS

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Not to forget Lochia that happens in post partum (post- parturient) women for about 4-6 weeks. Initially bloody, it changes to yellowish white discharge over days. No treatment is required as it is only a physiological response of the body to heal uterus.
#Lochia #OBGYN

1 Like
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Yes, true!