The presence of vaginal discharge is an important indicator of a woman's sexual health. The desire to get rid of them can only do harm, since their presence provides a barrier to the penetration of many infections of fungal, bacterial or viral origin.

But sometimes an increase in the volume of white discharge indicates that some kind of disease develops in the body or a serious hormonal failure has occurred. In such cases, these violations must be immediately brought back to normal, which is difficult to do without the help of a doctor.

To understand what marks on underwear are, you need to know where and how the physiological fluids that are released from the vagina are produced and how they appear.

Whites are allocated from such sources:

• Vagina. Inside it, up to 12 types of microorganisms are constantly present, which do not rise above the entrance to the cervix. Certain fungi, viruses and bacteria develop here, their composition is individual for each woman and changes repeatedly throughout her life. Most of the inhabitants are lactobacilli, and the minimum percentage is occupied by opportunistic microbes. These microbes do not have the opportunity to flourish as long as the beneficial bacteria greatly outnumber them.
• Vulva. From it, the secret of the Bartholin and small vestibular glands is mixed with the common fluid, which serves to lubricate the entrance to the vagina. These glands are located at the base of the labia majora and labia minora and secrete most actively during mechanical pressure and during arousal.
• Uterus and cervix. On the inner surface of the uterus, there is a constant desquamation of dead epithelial cells, the same cells from the cervix and the secret of the cervical glands are mixed with them. All this is mixed and descends into the lumen of the vagina. The intensity of desquamation varies in different periods of the monthly cycle.
• The fallopian tubes. White from these organs is produced only when they become inflamed, from where they enter the uterus, and from the uterus - down through the cervical canal.

All these secretions make up whites, the color of which will depend on the work of each of the above organs.

An increase in the amount of whiteness and the simultaneous appearance of liquid whitish or yellow droplets on the nipples, not associated with pregnancy, can be a sign of very serious diseases, such as tumors of the reproductive organs or mammary glands, mastitis or galactorrhea, so the appearance of such a symptom should be a reason for an urgent appeal to specialist.

What discharge is considered the norm

Normally, a woman's leucorrhea is present at any period of the menstrual cycle, the vagina should never be completely dry, since the secretion performs several important functions. Firstly, it resists most pathogenic agents that enter the vagina from the outside, and secondly, it serves as a lubricant and reduces the risk of injury to delicate epithelial tissues during sex.

Normal leucorrhoea is considered if:

• They do not have a pronounced color. They can be transparent, white, sometimes cream or with a slight yellowish tint.
• There is no strong unpleasant odor. Normal microflora never gives the secretion the smell of decaying organic matter.
• The consistency is not too runny (not watery) but not too thick either. A jelly-like or mucous consistency is a variant of the norm. During ovulation, the mucus is clear and viscous.
• Volume - no more than a teaspoon throughout the day (but visually this parameter is quite difficult to track).

If the reproductive system is working normally and there are no diseases, then the discharge does not cause irritation to the mucous membranes of the genital organs, is not accompanied by pain, does not cause fever and any other discomfort.

White discharge with a sour smell

A sour, not pungent secretion odor is normal in many cases. The largest component of leucorrhoea is lactobacilli - a large group of lactic acid bacteria that determine the acidity of the intravaginal environment. Its average pH is 3.8-4.4, which corresponds to a slightly acidic reaction.

Lactobacilli in the process of life form lactic acid. It is necessary in order to:

• restrain the growth of opportunistic fungi in the vagina;
• prevent the penetration of bacteria deep into the mucous epithelium;
• regulate the process of fertilization, since conception occurs only with a sufficient amount of sperm, neutralized by vaginal whites (a sufficient amount of ejaculate for this is an indirect indicator of the general health of a man).

Therefore, a slight sour smell may be a variant of the norm, but not all women have it, as it is a purely individual characteristic.

White discharge as a sign of illness

The color of vaginal secretion is a very important indicator that responds to changes in the state of the reproductive system in the shortest possible time. There is a list of signs that changes in the nature of the discharge are associated with some kind of pathology:

• change in consistency from normal to curdled;
• large volume (significantly exceeding 5 ml per day);
• hard pieces, large lumps, inclusions of other colors;
• obvious foaming;
• color change;
• the presence of a sour, fishy or onion rotten smell;
• dryness and irritation of the labia majora;
• discomfort, pain, itching in the genital area;
• painful urination.

If, along with these manifestations, the temperature rises, it hurts to walk, or it hurts a lot in the lower abdomen, then you should immediately consult a doctor.

The main causes of abundant white discharge

An increase in the volume of whites may be pathogenic in nature or occur for physiological reasons associated with special conditions or periods of a woman's life. It is important to know them in order to be able to independently determine whether qualified assistance is needed for such changes or whether the picture is completely normal.

The condition of vaginal leucorrhoea is affected by certain medications, the period of breastfeeding, climate change and many other factors.

Adolescence

In young girls, aged 10-17 years, leucorrhoea is often more abundant than in adult women. The reason for this lies in the fact that before the onset of menstruation and several years after their first appearance, the hormonal background of the body gradually improves and stabilizes, while in adult women this process has already been completed and follows a constant algorithm.

In girls, the abundance of discharge may not be permanent, but appear periodically. If this is not accompanied by unpleasant sensations, then there is no reason for concern.

Monthly Changes

An increase in the volume of secretion, as a rule, is observed during the period of ovulation, but its consistency becomes more mucous and viscous, and the color becomes transparent. After ovulation, everything returns to its previous state.

But in the second half of the monthly cycle, and especially shortly before menstruation, thick white or white-yellow discharge appears, which lasts about five days before the start of critical days. This does not require any treatment, since it corresponds to the normal fluctuations of sex hormones throughout the month.

With sexual arousal

During sexual arousal in a woman's body, special mechanisms are launched that prepare her reproductive organs for sex. One of these mechanisms is the intensive work of the Bartholin glands, which are located on the eve of the labia in their back part.

Strong sexual arousal quickly acts on this gland, and it begins to work much stronger, which is expressed in the abundance of physiological mucus, which naturally provides lubrication for better penis gliding. The second function of such hydration is to protect against the possible entry of pathogenic microbes into the vagina.

In different women, the intensity of the release of such a liquid during arousal is significantly different, in some it is very high. The leucorrhoea is not as thick as usual, transparent or white.

After having sex

The abundance of white discharge from the vagina after intercourse lasts an average of a day. Whites consist of the internal secretion of the vagina and the ejaculate of a man. The ejaculate under the influence of an acidic environment can form small pieces or clots.

The color of such a liquid is sometimes white, white-yellow or almost transparent. Often this causes discomfort, as the underwear is moistened more than usual. During the day, the intensity gradually decreases and returns to normal.

Candidiasis

The reason for the appearance of abundant secretion in the form of hard curdled pieces is either candidiasis. The standard clinical picture is an abundant discharge from the vagina of a curdled mass of white or white-yellow color, which often has an unpleasant sour smell. During sex, discomfort is often felt, and sometimes pain. In addition, severe itching, burning and discomfort are felt in the area of ​​the labia due to excessive moisturizing of the underwear.

In order for this disease to begin to manifest itself, any weakening of the immune system or the action of other factors that affect the number of healthy vaginal microflora is enough.

Gardnerellosis

The second name for this disease is bacterial vaginosis.

This pathology is caused by a violation of the composition of the vaginal microflora. With it, there is a sharp increase in vaginal secretion, which acquires a gray-white color and a heterogeneous structure. The discharge during the first day, as a rule, does not smell, and then it acquires a smell reminiscent of rotten fish.

Gardnerellosis needs urgent treatment, as it can cause more serious diseases that affect the general health of a woman. Since it directly depends on the state of the immune system, prevention after treatment must necessarily include measures to strengthen a person's resistance to colds and viral diseases. If this is not done, then at the next opportunity, dysbacteriosis will resume and lead to a new round of the disease.

How to relieve the condition before going to the doctor

With abundant whites, a woman experiences discomfort due to the fact that the underwear in the intimate area quickly gets wet, and the constant friction of wet tissue on the delicate skin of intimate areas can provoke irritation. In such cases, the use of a healing cream will help, which must be applied in a very thin layer so as not to complicate the access of air to the skin.

Panty liners sometimes help to solve the problem, which absorb liquid well and keep it inside their structure, but this measure is not suitable for everyone, since sometimes an allergy is developed on the material of the pads.

Equally important is the hygienic care of the vulva. Compliance with the elementary rules that you need to wash yourself twice a day from front to back can save a woman from many problems.

Often, in the pursuit of excessive cleanliness, women abuse douching. Doing such procedures unnecessarily is not only pointless, but also dangerous, since such manipulations each time disrupt the natural balance of microflora, which serves as a risk factor for the development of any infections or fungi.

In the event that the leucorrhea suddenly changed its character, became too plentiful, curdled or acquired an unpleasant odor, the best solution would be a visit to a specialist.

An obstetrician-gynecologist tells about what should be the normal discharge during the menstrual cycle in this video.

Discharge in women and girls is a natural process during which the vagina gets rid of mucus, the remnants of menstrual blood, various bacteria and mucus. Usually they are colorless, but sometimes they turn white, and this factor alarms some of the fair sex. The question is quite reasonable: does the color of the discharge indicate any pathological process occurring in the genital area, and what does this threaten in the future.

First of all, you need to know that vaginal discharge is a product synthesized by glands located on the cervix. Normally, they have a thick, homogeneous (rarely lumpy), similar to sour cream, consistency. The smell is predominantly neutral, but may have a slight sourness. Color - transparent or white. Beli should not cause itching and irritation of the external genital organs, if this is not the case, you should consult a doctor and be examined for a bacterial infection.

The task of secretions is to cleanse the walls of the vagina from dead cells, mucus, and pathogenic microorganisms. Thanks to this natural process, the genitals independently cope with some infections. The volume of whites is not constant and varies depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, the day of ovulation, the presence of an intrauterine device, the period of pregnancy, and the use of hormonal drugs.

What discharge doctors call normal?

Sometimes in the whites of a newborn baby, traces of blood can be seen. In addition, the girl has swelling of the nipples, and with light pressure, colostrum is released. It is not worth worrying about the health of such a newborn, this phenomenon is safe for health and is called the “sexual or hormonal crisis”. The condition does not require medical correction, since it is quite natural: the mother's sex hormones entered the child's body through the placenta or with breast milk and soon their level normalizes on its own. You just need to carefully monitor the hygiene of the child.

The stage of hormonal rest begins at the age of 3-4 weeks and lasts until 7-8 years. This period is characterized by the absence of mucous secretions and hormonal changes. About a year before the first menstruation, under the influence of sex hormones, the girl again has leucorrhoea, which eventually becomes regular. By the age of 9-10, sometimes at a later age (14-15 years), the menstrual cycle is established.

What do whites indicate?

Allocations differ from each other, according to their consistency, smell and shade, one can judge the presence of diseases of the reproductive system. If abundant mucus occurs before or during menstruation, then this indicates the presence of an inflammatory process affecting the cervix (cervicitis, erosion). Cervical glands, reacting to pathology, begin to produce a secret with a vengeance and signal danger.

Taking care of the health of her daughter, every mother should follow the advice of specialists, which are as follows:

• * Washing should be done only with clean boiled water, without using soaps and shampoos.
• * Hand movements should be from front to back to prevent infection from entering the vagina. When the girl grows up, you need to teach her hygiene correctly.
• * If discharges were noticed, add a few crystals of potassium permanganate to the washing water. A slightly pink solution has an antiseptic effect and will help to cope with the problem.
• * Buy panties made from natural fabrics, such underwear does not irritate the delicate skin of the perineum. If, nevertheless, redness appears, consult a pediatrician who will prescribe an ointment with an anti-inflammatory effect.

The origin of whites, which are a source of discomfort, can only be determined by a doctor. Their consistency and smell indicate the source of the discharge. If they are thick and viscous, and, when dried, leave hard stains on the linen, then this is a product of the cervical glands. Vaginal leucorrhoea has a more liquid consistency and a milky white tint. From the uterus, the discharge is the most liquid, serous.

White discharge from the vagina without additional pathological signs is considered the norm. Their main function is to cleanse the vagina of particles of dead cells and bacteria that can disrupt the microflora and cause inflammation. Intermenstrual white discharge in women is normally formed in the vagina in a moderate amount. They moisturize the mucous membrane, create favorable conditions for fertilization and conception. If a woman has white discharge, but there are no complaints of itching, burning and swelling, do not worry. With an increase in the amount of mucus, a change in color and the appearance of other symptoms, a consultation with a gynecologist is necessary.

White discharge is normal

Normally, natural vaginal discharge is light, clear or slightly yellowish, not abundant and without an unpleasant odor. The main cause of white discharge in women is the secretion of glands that are located in the vulva and uterus. By the middle of the menstrual cycle, the discharge becomes as transparent as possible, they stretch noticeably and can leave marks on the linen. Also, an increase in whiteness is observed shortly before menstruation. Before her, the discharge in women of white color becomes more liquid. It is recommended to use daily, which instantly absorb the discharge and prevent the appearance of odor. Thin dailies are also suitable for use at the end of menstruation, when many women have a small amount of blood.

White discharge for women's health disorders

Not always liquid white discharge from the vagina is a normal variant. With an increase in their number, the appearance of a sharp unpleasant odor and other pathological symptoms, a woman should consult a doctor and undergo an additional examination.

Indications for consultation with a specialist:

• copious frothy discharge with an unpleasant odor;
• itching and burning in the intimate area;
• swelling of the external genital organs;
• redness of the vulva;
• painful urination and pain during intimate contact.

Abundant foamy discharge with an unpleasant odor and associated symptoms may indicate the development of diseases of the genitourinary organs.

Throughout the menstrual cycle, a woman has discharge of different consistency and shades. Most often it is a white discharge, odorless and without itching.

According to their external descriptions, you can determine a lot about reproductive capabilities, suggest the presence of certain pathological processes and learn about pregnancy. A change in vaginal mucus is a reason to contact a specialist.

Types of secretions

The secretion of the female genital area is different in its genesis, which means its appearance from various organs of the small pelvis.

Distribution of secretion by origin:

1. tubal secretion- occurs during an inflammatory process in the localization of the uterine tubes, in which a liquid product of inflammation accumulates in the tube lumen, which first appears in the uterine cavity, then flows through the uterine neck to the external genital organ.
2. White discharge, odorless- these are the most harmless leucorrhoea. Sometimes, with inflammation of the vagina, there are also abundant white discharges, most often with smell and itching - these symptoms are signs of diseases such as trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis, candidiasis, etc.
3. cervical secretion- occurs during an inflammatory process in the location of the cervix (cervicitis). Often inflammation is provoked by mycoplasmosis, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, syphilis, etc.
4. Uterine secretion- with endometritis, which has arisen due to many pathogens. Here, the product of inflammation through the duct of the uterine neck flows to the external genital organ.

Normal discharge

White of the female genital organs is a specific microenvironment, on the composition of which the female health of the reproductive system largely depends.

The mucous vaginal and cervical substance continuously produces a special mucus that protects the pelvic organs from the ingress of foreign microorganisms and the onset of the disease. The mucus slowly flows downward, leaving the vagina every day.

These leucorrhea, getting on underwear or panty liners, turn into pale or completely colorless spots. Such white discharge is not thrush, but normal secretion and does not need any therapy.

The secret secreted from the female genital organs, without deviations, is described as:

• Colorless or slightly whitish;
• Unusual impurities (purulent, bloody) do not appear;
• Miasma is not present;
• There is no manifestation of itching, burning, pain or any discomfort;
• Quantity - no more than 1 teaspoon per day.

In the continuation of the menstrual cycle, the properties of leucorrhea are inconsistent. Immediately after the critical days, leucorrhoea is colorless, rather liquid. Approaching the time of ovulation, the leucorrhoea becomes thicker.

Every day of the cycle, leucorrhoea from the female genital organs retains a light color, without sharp miasms and other uncomfortable sensations. The occurrence of itching, burning or painful feeling in the lower abdomen signals problems in the reproductive area and needs therapy.

White discharge in women during intercourse is also considered normal.

When should you see a doctor?

If there is no unpleasant smell from whiter and other uncomfortable sensations in a woman, there is no reason to worry. Under normal conditions, every day from the vagina in a healthy representative of the weaker sex, up to 1-2 teaspoons of mucous secretions can be discharged from the genitals.

The reason for an urgent visit to a gynecologist is vaginal mucosal leucorrhoea with the following features:

• Painful feeling when urinating;
• In the genital area, a feeling of pain and itching;
• Foamy whites associated with unpleasant odors;
• White, thick discharge, odorless and itchy;
• White discharge with a sour or fishy odor;
• The appearance of a small amount of blood or pus in the whites;
• Fever with vaginal discharge;
• Painful sensations (aching pains) in the region of the sacrum in the lower abdomen;
• Painful feeling during intimate contact.

What could it be?

Curdled leucorrhoea of ​​a cloudy white color, in which there are different odors, signal that the female system is affected by an infectious disease. In women, the most common is candidiasis.

The causes of this pathology are Candida fungi, with this disease there are white thick discharges with itching and the smell of sour foods.

There are enough factors for the appearance of this disease - this is the hormonal reshaping of the female body, excessive use of antibacterial personal hygiene products, stress or the use of antibiotics.

cervicitis

Cervicitis is often the cause of thick, white, odorless discharge and itching in women. With this disease, the inflammatory process is located on the uterine neck, inside and outside of which there are also protective mucous membranes.

In the process of resistance of healthy membranes with the causative agent of the disease, mucus is released, since inflammation occurs in the functions of the secreting glands.

Cervicitis is characterized by white cheesy discharge, painful pulling sensations in the lower abdomen and the appearance of blood particles after sexual contact.

Trichomoniasis

The second reason for the appearance of green or abundant white discharge is trichomoniasis. The disease often proceeds without symptoms., and this circumstance greatly complicates its diagnosis.

With strong white discharge with a not very pleasant smell, or with a small amount of green white, mild genital redness and itching, patients rarely visit a gynecologist, and diligently observe genital hygiene.

Therefore, the process of detecting infection can be delayed for a long time. In addition, trichomoniasis is established only with a laboratory examination.

Ovulation

This is the process of leaving the adnexal ovum when it is fully ripe for fertilization.
During this period, whites change.

The vaginal secret becomes thicker, more sticky, similar to egg white. The volume of whiter increases, and after the end of ovulation, they become thinner.

By the next critical days, if pregnancy has not occurred, the vaginal secretion is colorless and watery, white discharge without itching is likely.

In rare cases, women may experience white curdled discharge and itching.

Accompanying symptoms of the release of the egg:

• a sudden increase in body temperature (up to 37 ° C);
• the placement of the uterine cervix changes (the cervix becomes softer and goes down);
• aching pain in the appendages and lower abdomen;
• increase in sex drive.

You can find out about the start of ovulation through pharmacological tests, or when performing an ultrasound scan.

Gonorrhea

After a short incubation time, symptoms appear.

They appear as follows:

• thick yellow or white discharge with an unpleasant odor;
• itching and burning sensation that appears during urination and sexual contact;
• pain in the lower abdomen;
• violation of the monthly cycle;
• in some cases fever.

After a certain period, the acute stage, which was not treated, turns into a chronic one.

This is evidenced by the following signs:

• reduction of pain;
• itching and discomfort may be slight or disappear altogether;
• when visiting the toilet and during sexual intercourse, the presence of painful sensations is possible;
• white, liquid like milk discharge in a small amount.

The changes in consistency are affected by the number of leukocytes that are produced to fight the pathogen. Without proper treatment, chronic gonorrhea threatens the female body with the development of infertility.

Bacterial vaginosis

Dysbacteriosis is another name for this deviation. With this pathology, white curdled discharge in women becomes more abundant and dense, the color also changes to off-white, gray with a pronounced fishy smell.

Most women feel this unpleasant odor. It is associated with complication due to infectious pathogens.

With genital dysbacteriosis in women, itching cannot be a permanent symptom. Mostly women do not talk about any problems other than an increase in vaginal discharge. With aggravation, a burning sensation and pain in the lower abdomen is likely.

During the period of bearing a child, bacterial vaginosis can provoke involuntary delivery and other complications.

To determine the pathological changes in the bacterial environment, it is required to take a smear from the vaginal cavity and uterine cervix. The sampling is carried out with a special swab, and immediately sent to the laboratory for study.

When the presence of gardnarella (the causative agent of pathology) exceeds the 104 , antibiotic treatment is indicated. The regimen and scheme of the therapeutic course is established by the doctor.

Thrush

Abundant white thick discharge occurs with thrush. Rash, redness of the skin, etc. are also characteristic. At the initial period of the spread of candidiasis, only sometimes unpleasantly smelling leucorrhoea can come out, in which lumps or flakes of a dense consistency are sometimes found.

Also characteristic is the presence in the vagina of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms - gardnerella, with active reproduction of which mucous white curdled discharge with the smell of spoiled fish, reminiscent of milk, may also appear. Lumps are absent.

The disease can cause synthetic, tight underwear, moving, a large amount of sweets and frequent douching.

After taking antibiotics

After a course of antibiotic use, a woman may be visited by white, sticky, odorless discharge. This is because the drugs affect the general condition of the body, the microflora and the secretion of all glands.

Therefore, often viscous white discharge, after treatment with antibiotics or taking hormonal contraceptives, is the norm. Usually, to prevent the development of fungi, doctors prescribe Furazolidone.

White discharge during pregnancy

Together with fertilization, the acidic environment of the woman's vagina is transformed - the glands begin to produce a larger volume of the protective shell, thus blocking the entry of pathogens of various diseases into the body of the uterus to the fetus, so the volume of whites may increase.

At this time, a woman must strictly observe the rules of personal hygiene and use underwear made from natural materials.

Flaky white curdled discharge without itching with a sour smell indicates the appearance of a fungal infection, the name of which is thrush.

Thrush has the following symptoms:

• white discharge on the clitoris;
• itching and burning when going to the toilet;
• pain and discomfort during intercourse.

The thrush has no effect on the formation of the child. But there is a danger of infecting a child passing through the birth canal of an infected mother, and this can adversely affect his health.

A pregnant woman must inform the gynecologist about the occurrence of pathological white discharge from the genitals. The doctor will make a diagnosis and establish acceptable methods of therapy for the expectant mother.

White discharge early

Since the fertilization of the egg, the hormonal picture of a woman changes. During this period, progesterone dominates - the main hormone that forms the conditions for successful conception and pregnancy.

Under the influence of progesterone, the properties of genital secretions also change. Normally, the vaginal secret becomes thicker, more viscous. Instead of colorless, abundant milky whites appear. Itching, burning and pain are absent.

An increase in physiological mucus, very thick, white, odorless discharge is a good reason to visit the gynecological office.

Other signs of conception:

• delay of critical days;
• enlargement and compaction of the mammary glands;
• frequent urge to urinate;
• sudden mood changes;
• drowsiness;
• nausea and vomiting (symptoms of toxicosis);
• transformation of taste preferences;
• fascination with unusual smells.

A change in white discharge with an odor along with these symptoms is the reason for taking the test for the establishment of hCG. An increase in the number of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) indicates the onset of conception.

Curdled discharge during pregnancy

White curdled discharge during childbearing is likely. In position, the female body spends all its strength on the formation of a child, and this creates excellent conditions for the reproduction of various microbes. White discharge from the vagina with a smell, appear due to thrush.

In order to get rid of the disease, gynecological suppositories are usually indicated., however, they can only provide a short-term effect. Therefore, experts advise to conduct prenatal sanitation of the genitals.

Diagnostics

The first thing any specialist does is a blood test, taking a smear from the vagina, urethra and cervical tract, in order to diagnose diseases of the reproductive system. In addition, the penis and urethra are palpated.

It is also likely that the appointment of the holding:

• Ultrasound of the genitourinary system;
• PCR diagnostics (polymerase chain reaction);
• colposcopy.

If white thick discharges are odorless and without itching or smelly, white discharges, then it is the PCR determination that is used.

Treatment

With thick white discharge, odorless and without itching, or an increase in the volume of vaginal secretion, the consistency of which resembles cottage cheese, it is worth going to the gynecologist. After taking a smear and visual inspection, the specialist determines the cause of the change.

The sooner the cause is established, the easier it will be to cure the disease.

Treatment is carried out in the form of the use of medications, such as: tablets, suppositories and douching formulations. All medications are prescribed individually by the doctor.

In pathology, antifungal medicines are used:

• Nystatin;
• Clotrimazole;
• Polygynax;
• Pimafucin.

These are pharmacological suppositories with a low negative effect, they are possible for treatment during the gestation period. With exacerbations in women, tablets are used - Orungal and Flucostat.

In case of infection, which is manifested by burning, white discharge and itching, Hexicon suppositories are used along with antibiotics. As a supplement, a douching composition is used, or Miramistin spray.

Preventive actions

Protecting yourself from white discharge and potential sour smell is not difficult:

• observe the rules of hygiene.
• less irritate the mucous membrane of the penis.
• Use a natural cleanser to wash.
• take a bath more often.
• use sanitary pads daily, replace them if thick, heavy leucorrhoea comes out.
• wear underwear made from natural fabrics(cotton material). Air freely permeates through natural fabric, the skin surface “breathes” well.
  Healthy food.
• get enough sleep.
• avoid stressful situations.
• make time for physical exercise.

Odorless transparent white discharge is a physiological and safe process. However, in some cases they are a sign of illness. Therefore, when they appear, you should always contact a specialist.

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

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

Beli

Abundant vaginal discharge or scanty, but atypical in nature or smell, is called leucorrhoea. Whites create a constant feeling of moisture, burning and itching in the perineum. Causes copious discharge - inflammatory processes ( , ); infectious diseases of the urogenital organs, non-specific or STDs; tumors or injuries of the internal genitalia; allergic reactions to latex, spermicidal lubricants, underwear and hygiene products for intimate areas.

By origin, there are vaginal discharges, uterine and tubal (watery, large in volume) and cervical (thick, scanty).

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

Beli can appear after long courses of contraceptives, after douching with antiseptics; with constipation and a static lifestyle, leading to stagnation of venous blood in the small pelvis. The omission of the walls of the vagina, microtrauma of the genitals after sexual intercourse, ruptures of the perineum also cause the formation of leucorrhoea.

Mucous discharge is normal

The first mucous secretions are observed in newborn girls, the appearance of a secret is associated with residual amounts of maternal hormones. After 3-4 weeks, the discharge disappears and reappears by the age of 8-11 years, when the production of one's own estrogen increases. Mucus is secreted periodically, similar to raw egg white or rice water, sour in smell, color - white with a yellowish tinge.

Further, during puberty, cyclic vaginal discharge appears. The beginning of the cycle is the first day of menstruation; in the 1st half of the cycle and until its middle, coinciding 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 in consistency, possibly beige or brownish.

After ovulation jelly-like discharge, similar to jelly. They increase the content of lactic acid, which is produced by lactobacilli, and the discharge acquires a sour smell. Increased acidity protects the vaginal mucosa, which is looser and more vulnerable to infection during this time period. Before menstruation, the volume of mucous secretions increases again.

Discharge during pregnancy liquid and copious, 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 with an admixture of scarlet blood. Usually the release of the cork 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 blood clots in the discharge suggests an ectopic pregnancy, a threat of interruption gestation, atypical position (previa) or placental abruption. All options are dangerous, at any moment they can be complicated by bleeding and end in death. A pregnant woman who has noted 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 due to inflammation. intestines, bladder, uterus or ovaries. These episodes include pain associated with urination, intestinal colic or pulling sensations in the lower abdomen and in the lumbar region. Perhaps the temperature will rise, a blood test will show signs of inflammation (leukocytosis, an increase in ESR): then inflammation treatment will be needed.

10-12 months before the onset of the first menstruation, the vaginal mucosa reacts to hormonal changes and liquid, transparent discharges or white, the color of highly diluted milk, odorless or sour are formed. 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 curdled appearance.

After the onset of sexual activity, the consistency and composition of the secretions change, the reason is the addition of the partner's microflora, which is different in composition from the vaginal flora. It takes time to adapt, in each case is different, 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 variation in the nature of vaginal discharge.

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

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

gives white curdled discharge, copious, 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 a decrease in immunity.

cheesy white plaque in the vagina with thrush

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

Video: vaginal discharge - norm and pathology

Yellow and green discharge

"Colored" discharge from the vagina occurs with STDs, bacterial vaginosis (gardnerellosis), with nonspecific genital inflammation.

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

: visible on examination of the vagina yellow discharge, emerging from the cervical canal and flowing down the walls of the vagina. Belyam is accompanied by pain in the lower back and lower abdomen, an increase in Bartholin's glands. The diagnosis is confirmed by PCR analysis.

: leucorrhoea plentiful, frothy, greenish or yellowish with a strong putrid odor. May drain onto the perineum, inner thighs and cause skin irritation.

: moderate in volume, the color is yellowish white. May be accompanied by bleeding without matching the cycle, pain of the "lowered belt" type - lower back, lower abdomen, inner thighs. With gonorrhea, a putrid smell of leucorrhoea is often found; a change in their color from grayish-white to yellow indicates the transition of the acute stage of the disease to the chronic one.

: leucorrhoea plentiful, grayish-white, with the smell of rotting fish. Sticky, yellow-green and even orange discharge is typical of an untreated, long-term disease. Itching is not strong, occurs periodically. All symptoms are exacerbated immediately after 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. With inflammation of the vagina, the secret becomes sour by reaction, by consistency - viscous and stretching or plentiful and liquid, loses its transparency. A hazy white tint is given by leukocytes,yellowish-green color due to the presence of pus,yellowish-pink - blood. In the initial stages of inflammation, serous leucorrhoea is liquid, watery; then they transform into purulent - thick, green, with a strong putrefactive odor.

and adnexitis: inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. May appear as specific complications caused by ascending venereal infection in STDs, or "normal" inflammation of the internal genitalia. The discharge is always accompanied by pain in the abdomen; in the acute period - periodic, cramping and strong, in the chronic stage - of medium and low intensity, constant, dull, pulling.

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

• foamy discharge - a characteristic sign of STDs;
• abundant discharge is typical for the acute stage of colpitis, adnexitis and salpingitis;
• scanty whites - for chronic adnexitis and salpingitis.

Brown and pink discharge

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

Physiological reasons:

1. small brown, pink or scarlet discharge in the middle of the cycle: the laundry does not get dirty, the color is noticeable 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 there was a complete rejection of the endometrium and the proliferation phase begins (growth of a new endometrium).
3. Bloody issues during the period of taking hormonal drugs. If they last more than three cycles, then it is worth changing the contraceptive and being examined by a gynecologist.
4. Secretion of cervical mucus with bright blood- in pregnant women before childbirth.

Pathological causes

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

For gonorrhea the infection rises from the vagina upwards, affecting the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Appearance blood in streaksamong mucopurulent secretions and intermenstrual bleeding are signs of an ascending gonococcal infection. A confirmed diagnosis is made after, 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 whites, associated with endometritis, appear before and after menstruation, it is also possible to produce brownish mucus in the middle of the cycle. Almost always, inflammation of the endometrium is combined with its hyperplasia (growth) and menstrual bleeding, often the cycle is shortened. Profuse bleeding leads to anemia, the hemoglobin content drops to 50-70 g / l (the norm for women is 120-140 g / l). A woman feels constant fatigue, shortness of breath and dizziness appear even with little 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, the drugs are prescribed for 3 menstrual cycles.

Endometriosis is an overgrowth of glandular tissue (endometrium) in the neck and muscular layer of the uterus (myometrium), fallopian tubes, ovaries, in the abdominal organs. Endometrial cells get into atypical places during abortions, during instrumental examinations of the uterus, during childbirth and during the return of menstrual masses. endometriosis spreads i, leads to numerous local inflammations and the formation adhesions; common complication - infertility.

Drawing pains during menstruation are typical, bloody discharge from all foci of growths of the endometrium. At colposcopy small multiple nodules or cysts, cyanotic or red stripes are visible on the cervix. Bloody-brown leucorrhoea becomes lighter after menstruation, their volume decreases during this period and increases again before the next menstruation. Abdominal endometriosis is a common cause of internal bleeding and subsequent surgery (laparotomy).

Cervical erosion: violation of the integrity of the mucosa, when viewed to determine the boundaries of erosion, acetic acid, 3-5% solution is used. After smearing the surface with acid, erosion is visible as a whitish spot on a pink background. When erosion occurs, small spotting appears, their number increases after intercourse.

Bleeding in cancer patients

endometrial hyperplasia accompanied by smearing brown or bloody discharge before and after menstruation. Acyclic uterine bleeding is possible: they are long, up to several weeks and even months, leading to anemia. The disease develops due to hormonal imbalance, with problems with lipid and carbohydrate metabolism (obesity, diabetes mellitus), hypertension, after gynecological operations, with hereditary predisposition, as a result of STDs - after inflammation of the uterus, with endometritis.

For treatment, combined estrogen / progestogen preparations are used, with severe bleeding - curettage of the endometrium. Be sure to do a biopsy, assess the degree of cellular atypia and growth 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. Discomfort during sexual contact is possible, immediately after its completion - spotting brownish discharge. The reasons for the formation of polyps are an imbalance of estrogens and progestogens, inflammation of the endometrium and cervical canal. Small polyps are discovered by chance; large (more than 2 cm) are manifested by pain in the form of contractions, 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, fibromyomas and myomas) and malignant(endometrial cancer and myosarcoma, cervical cancer). Leucorrhoea with pus and scarlet blood, possibly offensive, is characteristic of the decay of the tumor; with cervical cancer appear thick discharge, scanty, streaked with blood. Submucosal fibromatous nodes always give severe bleeding, that is, they clinically proceed malignantly. Cervical cancer quickly metastasizes, spreading to the pelvic lymph nodes, the liver and lungs, and can move to the walls of the vagina.

Video: discharge from women, expert opinion