When discharge is healthy, it should be neutral, odourless and colourless, and should not cause you any discomfort. However, if you begin to notice changes in your discharge, it may signify an underlying problem or infection.
What does it look like?
Some women may notice that they have begun to produce a larger quantity of discharge, or some women’s discharge may become more watery in texture, frothy or thicker and glue-like. The colour may change too. However, normal menstrual discharge may become slightly brown in colour towards the end of the cycle- this is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.
What causes it?
There are many causes of abnormal vaginal discharge:
- Thrush
- Tricomoniasis
- Gonorrhea
- Infection
- Pregnancy
- Undiagnosed cervical polyps, cervical erosion, chronic inflammation of the cervix, or an infected IUD
What are the main symptoms?
Most women with abnormal vaginal discharge may experience the following symptoms:
- A change in colour or consistency
- A strong unpleasant odour, often fishy-smelling
- An unusually large amount of discharge
- Itching or irritation outside your vagina
- Abdominal pain, often in your stomach or pelvis
- Soreness
- Unexpected vaginal bleeding (e.g. between periods or after sex)
- Pain when urinating
How is it treated?
The exact treatment prescribed by your gynaecologist will depend on your symptoms and their cause. Abnormal vaginal discharge can easily be treated using antibiotics or anti-fungal medication, and your discharge should return to normal within a short time following treatment.
If you have been experiencing any symptoms and are concerned, please book an appointment with Queen’s Clinic by phoning us on 020 7935 5540.
