Yes, You Can Get an STD in Your Eye, Here’s How It Happens
Do you remember the last time you looked at your underpants and thought, "Is this normal?" "― I've been there too. Almost 60% of women have been concerned about vaginal discharge at some point in their lives, according to a survey conducted by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Vaginal health relies on continuous flow to flush out bacteria and maintain moisture in the area, but when discharge changes color, consistency, or smell, it could be a sign of something more.
Learning About Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge: What is it?
- The walls of the vagina and cervix contain glands which secrete a fluid known as vaginal discharge.
- It aids vaginal hygiene by flushing bacteria and dead cells out of the vagina.
- Hormones, libido, and menstruation cycles are some of the conditions that affect how much discharge in a woman is normal.
What Is a Typical Discharge?
The following is an overview of the stages of the menstrual cycle that may be an indication of normal vaginal discharge:
- Physical exercise and ovulation are two common reasons for this watery and clear discharge.
- White and creamy in texture, the first and last days of a woman's menstrual cycle are typically like this.
- Indications of fertility and ovulation: egg-like (clear and stretchy) eggs.
- There is usually a mild odor, or none at all; it should never be strong or fishy.
Anecdote
Maya, a 28-year-old yoga teacher, remembers her initial shock at the density of her menstrual discharge. "I believed that something was wrong, but upon visiting my gynecologist, I realized that it was actually a sign of peak fertility," she notices.
Key Point: Your discharge probably is normal if it's watery, clear, white, or pale yellow and not stinky.
What's the Reason Behind Unexplained Vaginal Fluid?
Means Something's Amiss with Your Discharge
Variation is expected to some degree, but please do be careful to pay attention to any peculiar symptoms of discharge:
- There could be a yeast infection if it is thick and cottage cheese-like in texture.
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) might be present if there is grayish or greenish discharge accompanied by a fishy odor.
- Green or yellow frothy discharge might be a sign of trichomoniasis, which is a sexually transmitted infection.
- Potential reasons for brown or bloody discharge unrelated to periods are irregular periods, pregnancy complications, or, in very rare cases, cervical cancer.
- Infection may be suspected if there is a sudden or excessive increase in discharge with a pungent odor.
Medical Research on Unexplained Discharge
In a 2021 Journal of Women's Health study, it was discovered that out of all causes of abnormal vaginal discharge, bacterial vaginosis is the cause of 30% of abnormal vaginal discharge among women aged 15-44.
Trichomoniasis, an STD, occurs in almost 3.7 million cases annually in the United States, according to the CDC.
The mother of the two children, 35-year-old Maria chose to disregard the fishy smell and yellow discharge she had been experiencing for months. "I thought that it would go away by itself, but soon got worse," she says. Her antibiotic treatment was successful after a follow-up diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis.
Order Now $189.00 $490.00 Check Your STD Status in Minutes
Test at Home with Remedium
10-in-1 STD Test Kit
Claim Your Kit TodaySave 61%
For Women
Results in Minutes
No Lab Needed
Private & DiscreetFor all 10 tests
Main Reasons for an Abnormal Vaginal Drainage
The etiology of alterations in vaginal discharge is multifaceted. The most frequent culprits are presented below:
Pathogens and Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- Yeast infection: a thick, white, clumpy discharge may be attributed to an overgrowth of Candida fungi.
- Bacterial vaginal dysbiosis (BV): Grayish odorous discharge indicates bacterial imbalance of the vagina.
- Yellow, green, or foamy discharge could be due to STIs (Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis).
Irregular Hormonal Levels
- Menopause, hormonal fluctuations in pregnancy, or the use of contraception all can affect vaginal discharge.
- Leukorrhea, or a thicker, milkier discharge, may result from increased estrogen levels during pregnancy.
- Low estrogen levels in menopause may result in decreased lubricant and drier discharge.
Foreign Objects
Odor discharge may result from forgotten tampons or other methods of birth control, such as diaphragms.
Immediately see a doctor if you feel that this is happening.
Allergic Reactions
Some of the things that might irritate the skin and produce an abnormal discharge are perfumed soaps, douches, and artificial underwear.
"The vagina has a way of cleaning itself," says Dr. Elaine Carter, a Johns Hopkins University gynecologist. Scented wipes or douching upsets the delicate balance and raises the potential for infection.
Identifying When to Visit a Doctor
Seek a doctor at once if you experience any of the following signs and symptoms:
- Unusual and persistent vaginal discharge
- Odor that's foul, pungent, or fishy
- Fluffy, green, or gray discharge
- Itching, burning, or pain in the vaginal area
- Period-related bleeding
Exams for Diagnosis
It is possible for doctors to do any of the following:
- In order to diagnose infections such as BV, a pH test measures acidity.
- Examines vaginal cells under a microscope to look for symptoms of infection.
- Testing for trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea is part of an STD screening process.
Data and Statistical Information
Reviewing certain key statistics and data from well-researched medical studies could perhaps help us gain a deeper insight into vaginal discharge and the implications thereof.
Vaginal Infections: How Common Are They?
Nearly one in three women of ages 15-44 years could develop bacterial vaginosis causing abnormal vaginal discharge, said a 2022 CDC report. Vaginal infections, or vulvovaginal candidiasis, will infect about 75% of women at some time during their lifetimes and will recur for up to 50% of these women.
Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection that affects over 3.7 million people in the US each year, is another frequent reason for abnormal discharge. In 2021, the Journal of Women's Health reported a study that ranked bacterial vaginosis as the most frequent reason for abnormal discharge.
It is characterized as a thin, grayish discharge with a strong smell. But itching and a heavy, white, clumpy discharge are common symptoms of yeast infections. With frothy yellow-green discharge, pain or burning on urination is possible. And abnormal discharge, pain on urination, or pelvic pain might be symptoms of certain sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.
The value of early diagnosis of vaginal discharge alterations is supported by these results. Women are empowered to take control of their vaginal health by being able to identify abnormality and when to seek medical attention.
Check Your STD Status in Minutes
Test at Home with RemediumTrichomoniasis Test Kit
Claim Your Kit Today
Save 31%
For WomenResults in MinutesNo Lab NeededPrivate & DiscreetOrder Now $33.99 $49.00
Real-Life Examples and Professional Views
Professional Opinions on Vaginal Discharge from Gynecologists
Dr. Monica Patel, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Cedars-Sinai, highlights
If you want to know why the vagina produces discharge, knowing your normal is the beginning and what alterations one woman will consider abnormal may actually be quite normal in her vaginal ecology.
Monitoring patterns of discharge and seeing a doctor if changes are extreme is recommended by Dr. Patel.
Analysis of the Dangers of Overlooking Signs and Symptoms
Emma, a 34-year-old professional, brushed aside symptoms of BV in her case.
The marketing executive Emma brushed aside the fishy smell and yellow discharge she had been experiencing for months, thinking it was okay.
"I was embarrassed and didn't have time to see the doctor," she recalls.
She finally consulted a doctor after six months of suffering. Her OB-GYN prescribed antibiotics upon diagnosing bacterial vaginosis. Failing to get treatment earlier resulted in chronic pelvic inflammation, which had to be treated continuously for several months.
What did she learn? Listen to your body. My only regret is that I did not consult a doctor earlier.
Real World Applications—What You Can Do Right Now
It is beneficial to know about vaginal discharge, but more important is the ability to use that knowledge on a regular basis. To keep your vagina healthy, do the following:
Maintain Consistent Discharge Tracking
In the same way checking your menstrual cycle can catch you early for illness, checking for alterations in vaginal discharge can do the same. Record the date and any other symptoms accompanying an abrupt change in odor, color, or consistency.
A notebook or period tracker app could prove useful in keeping tabs on your vaginal health results. There are also some newer apps one can use to monitor your vaginal discharge production in relation to changing levels of your hormones.
Practice Good Personal Hygiene but Don't Overdo It
Contrary to what many think, vaginal health is not increased by cleaning it more. The vagina naturally has a means of destroying bacteria, but if you wash it too often with harsh soap or fragrant cleansers, you can upset the balance and create irritation or such conditions as bacterial vaginosis.
Use plain water and an unscented soap.
- Douches are not advised as they disturb the pH balance.
- To avoid getting wet, use cotton underwear that breathes.
When in Doubt, Consult a Doctor
When there is abnormal discharge initially, the majority of women usually disregard it. If you experience any of the following symptoms, see a doctor: unusual discharge that persists, irritation, strong odor, or pain. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and repeat infections are complications that could occur due to delayed treatment.
Several telemedicine firms now provide online consultations for vaginal health issues, so there's no need to feel awkward about seeing a doctor in person.
Take Probiotics Into Consideration
Taking probiotics regularly can help keep vaginal flora healthy and lower infection risk, according to recent studies. To support a healthy vaginal microbiota, try eating yogurt with live cultures or using vaginal or oral probiotic pills.
Check Your STD Status in Minutes
Test at Home with RemediumPapillomavirus (HPV) Test
Claim Your Kit Today
Save 31%
For WomenResults in MinutesNo Lab NeededPrivate & DiscreetOrder Now $33.99 $49.00
First-Held Accounts and Testimonials
Breaking the stigma and having open discussions about vaginal health can be achieved by hearing first-hand testimonies of other women.
Examining Lisa's Experience: "I Thought It Was Just Stress"
Lisa, a 29-year-old lawyer, observed a difference in her vaginal discharge. It was thinner, grayer, and more pungent compared to the previous appearance. Pain lasted for weeks, and she initially believed the pain was due to stress and alterations in diet.
As Lisa describes, "my confidence took a hit" when she began to feel self-conscious. "I didn't think I had to see a doctor until my best friend described her own similar experience."
Lisa was treated with a standard course of antibiotics after a brief trip to her physician, which verified bacterial vaginosis. She recovered in a week.
That's her advice? Watch out closely for your body to change. Go see a doctor right away if you develop some suspicious symptoms.
My Experience with Chronic Yeast Infections: Maya's History
Mom of two Maya, age 34, had had chronic yeast infections. Symptoms were reported to be "intense itching and thick, white discharge" coming every few months.
She went to a doctor after trying a variety of over-the-counter remedies without help. The doctor was able to pinpoint the source of the problem: her birth control was changing the vaginal pH and putting her more at risk of infection. The infections cleared when she started taking probiotics and changed how she used birth control.
What did she learn? Repeated infections can be an indication of a more significant medical issue. Stop fixing the symptom and start to fix the cause.
Common Mistakes About Vaginal Discharge
Millions of people are unnecessarily concerned because they do not understand vaginal discharge. Some of the most prevalent myths have the following facts:
Myth: There Should Be No Smell in Vaginal Discharge
- Vaginal discharge does have a mild odor, but it must not be strong or offensive.
- There may be an infection if there is a fishy or putrid smell.
Myth: Increased Discharge Means There Is a Problem
During a woman's menstrual cycle, the level of vaginal discharge fluctuates. Ovulation, pregnancy, and sexual activity can all cause heightened discharge.
Myth: All White Discharge is a Symptom of Yeast Infection
Although yeast infections do cause thick, clumpy, white discharge, normal discharge can be white and creamy at certain points in the cycle.
Myth: The Douching Myth and Its Benefit to Vaginal Health
- It is more dangerous to become infected since douching destroys beneficial bacteria.
- Douching is actually not indicated and usually harmful since the vagina naturally cleanses itself.
Myth: Menopause Signals the End of Vaginal Discharge
Although vaginal discharge can reduce after menopause because of lower levels of estrogen, one must remember that some vaginal discharge still exists and keeps the vagina healthy.
Check Your STD Status in Minutes
Test at Home with Remedium8-in-1 STD Test Kit
Claim Your Kit Today
Save 62%
For Men & WomenResults in MinutesNo Lab NeededPrivate & DiscreetOrder Now $149.00 $392.00
For all 8 tests
FAQs
1. Define normal vaginal discharge.
A white or yellowish white color with a moderate odor and clarity are the characteristics of normal discharge. Texture is regulated by your menstrual cycle.
2. When is vaginal discharge of concern?
Green, gray, thick, clumpy, smelly, itchy, or painful discharge should raise concern.
3. Does stress have an effect on vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge quantity and consistency might be affected by hormonal fluctuations, which can be brought on by stress.
4. How does birth control affect vaginal discharge?
Hormonal contraceptives could change the balance of estrogen and thereby reduce or increase vaginal discharge.
5. What does nutrition have to do with good vaginal health?
Yogurt and other meals containing probiotics keep vaginal microorganisms healthy but sweets do not and actually do stimulate yeast excess.
6. Will increasing my water intake influence my vaginal discharge?
Having enough water to drink keeps vaginal lubricant in and minimizes irritation, so the answer is yes.
7. Occasionally, why is my vaginal discharge smelly?
A strong, musky smell can be associated with hormonal fluctuations or not being cleaned properly, while a strong, fishy smell can be an indication of bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection.
8. Is brown discharge ever problematic?
Not necessarily. Because your body is expelling stale blood either prior to or after your period, you could see a brown discharge. However, see a doctor if this is occurring routinely or outside of your menstrual cycle.
9. How can I prevent my vagina from being naughty?
To decrease the chance of infections, practice safe sex, wear breathable underwear, stay away from scented products, and wash hands as well as the body.
10. I'm otherwise not ill; does one still need to visit a doctor?
See a doctor if you experience unusual color, texture, or odor changes for more than a few days.
Know Your Body!
Knowing your body and taking an active role in your healthcare includes knowing how to recognize changes in vaginal discharge. While some variation is always normal, a more drastic change may signal infection or other health issue.
Don't ignore changes that don't go away or that are unusual. To get problems under control early, consult a doctor or a vaginal health test kit you can do at home.
Has there ever been a time when your vaginal discharge altered for no obvious reason? Educate other women about their health by commenting below.
Sources
1.- SELF Magazine - Ob/Gyns Explain That Stuff in Your Underwear
2.- Healthline - What Causes Sticky Vaginal Discharge?
3.- Cosmopolitan - Is My Vaginal Discharge Normal?
4.- Everyday Health - What Is Vaginal Discharge? Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
5.- SELF Magazine - Yeast Infection vs. Bacterial Vaginosis: How to Tell
