Why does the girl have a white selection. How to protect yourself from infections that can cause excess white discharge. What will discharge in early pregnancy tell you

Often, women who love cleanliness and diligently maintain body hygiene are overzealous in trying to get rid of whiteness. When vaginal discharge is observed on underwear in women and girls, most often you should not worry about the pathology - this is a natural process due to physiology. But when discomfort, an unpleasant odor or a suspicious color are added to the secret, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist - such phenomena indicate possible inflammatory or infectious processes in the genitourinary system. In order to take timely action, it is necessary to understand where the natural processes end and the development of pathology begins.

How are secretions formed and what are they

Before considering what normal whites should be, let's define what they are. As a rule, the secret that stands out is a natural phenomenon, it is produced by glands located on the mucous layer of the vestibule of the vagina, the cervix. A certain amount of effusion of the vaginal vessels, the discharge of the uterine cavity, is added to the composition of the mucus. One of the main tasks of the secret is to protect the uterine and vaginal walls from the introduction of pathogens. It is also necessary to prevent the drying of the vagina, cleaning the genital tract. Accordingly, eliminating those whites that are the norm, the woman also removes the protective layer, opening up access to infections.

Usually, from 1 to 5 ml of vaginal mucus is secreted during the day, while during the menstrual cycle its characteristics may change, including shade and consistency. The volume may also change, the natural reasons affecting this indicator are:

• ovulatory period;
• bearing a child;
• sexual arousal.

With insufficient production of vaginal fluid, pain during sex can occur, and frequent infection of the body. If we consider the parameters of the vaginal mucus in a woman, its composition includes cells and a variety of microorganisms:

• Mucus formed by the cervical canal, which is a protection against infectious pathologies in the cervix.
• Constantly renewing cells of the epithelium of the uterus, while the detached ones descend into the vaginal cavity, then coming out.
• Microflora, which includes from 5 to 12 varieties of microorganisms, including a small amount of coccal bacteria, viruses and fungi. Actively multiplying under the influence of negative factors, they are able to provoke the development of the inflammatory process.

It is believed that normally the ovaries, uterine cavity and fallopian tubes, along with the cervix, are completely sterile and microorganisms inhabit only the vagina.

In women and girls of reproductive age, the natural vaginal microflora for the most part includes lactic acid bacteria, due to which the normal excreted secret is an acidic environment with a pH value of 3.8 to 4.4. This explains the possible sour smell of mucus.

Characteristics of natural vaginal discharge

Every girl who has reached childbearing age should have a discharge that indicates the health of her reproductive system.

There are a number of signs, according to which a woman is able to independently determine how much the allocated secret meets the norm:

• It is estimated what color the secret is, the results are correlated with the period of the menstrual cycle - shades can be white, cream, yellow, or differ in transparency.
• Most of the natural vaginal discharge almost does not smell or there are sour shades.
• The consistency of mucus can vary from liquid to viscous.
• Despite the fact that the volume of the secret may vary, it should not exceed about a teaspoon.
• The amount of mucus increases significantly before menstruation, after sexual intercourse, during sexual arousal.

The nature of vaginal discharge is largely influenced by the woman's age, the hormonal background of her body, the presence or absence of a sexual life, and other factors. In girls, leucorrhoea should be absent until the puberty, given the peculiarities of the hormonal background and the structure of the genital organs characteristic of this age.

Allocations are evidence of pathology if they have a smell, color and appear in girls of 10-12 years of age. Usually such mucus indicates problems in the genitourinary or digestive system. Approximately 12 months before the start of the first menstrual cycle, teenage girls begin to experience the production of vaginal fluid, which is due to hormonal changes. Beli can be liquid or mucous, painted white or slightly yellow, when they leave the vagina there should be no unpleasant sensations - soreness, burning or itching, swelling and redness. After the stabilization of the monthly cycle, cyclic changes in the properties of secretions are observed. Given that most often girls and women have a monthly cycle of 28 days, consider the natural changes in vaginal discharge, taking it as a basis:

• In the initial phase of the cycle - and this is the period from the first to the twelfth day after the end of menstruation - the secreted mucus is often liquid, of a homogeneous consistency, sometimes with the inclusion of lumps, which consist of dead epithelium. Its color is transparent, but white or yellow shades are not considered a pathology. The smell is absent or gives slightly sour.
• On the thirteenth - fifteenth day, the ovulatory period begins, in which the volume of daily secretions increases to 4 ml, their consistency is similar to viscous mucus, the color ranges from transparent to white or light beige tones.
• In the second phase of the cycle, which begins on the fifteenth or sixteenth day, normal discharge in women decreases in volume, the consistency is similar to jelly or a thin cream. The color remains transparent, whitish or yellowish. Immediately before menstruation, the discharge becomes mucous and smearing, acquiring a brown tint.

Why do whites change

In addition to the monthly cycle and pathological conditions, there are many most often hormonal factors that affect the nature of the secret:

• When a girl begins to have sex or a change of partners occurs, a new microflora enters the vagina, which is essentially non-pathogenic, but completely alien. As a result, during a certain time period, the duration of which is individual for each individual organism, the reproductive system adapts to the changed composition of the microflora. At such moments, there may be an increase in the volume of the allocated secret, a change in its consistency and color. In this case, any discomfort, including itching or burning, should be completely absent.
• Sexual contact itself also provokes the production of specific whites - after an act without using a condom for several hours, vaginal discharge is like transparent clots, painted in whitish or yellowish hues. After six or eight hours, the mucus changes again - it becomes liquid and plentiful, painted white. When using a condom or when interrupting the act, the secret that is subsequently released has a structure similar to a cream, since it consists of a “waste” vaginal lubricant. Its color is whitish, the amount is quite scarce.
• Female oral contraceptives significantly change the hormonal background, inhibit ovulation and, during their use, help to reduce the volume of secretions. After stopping the use of the drug, the nature of the vaginal discharge is restored. Similarly, the nature of the leucorrhoea has a period of lactation. When the lactation period ends, the amount of mucus produced is quite low.
• Consider what discharge is considered normal for women who are carrying a child. Usually their number increases, since blood circulation in the genitals is accelerated and a certain amount of plasma penetrates into the lumen of the vagina. In the last trimester, the volume of the secret increases even more noticeably, which is a harbinger of labor activity.

Pregnant women need to pay increased attention to the nature of the substance released from the vagina, as it may indicate hidden problems. For example, liquid mucus in the last trimester often indicates a discharge of water.

The leucorrhoea that appears after labor is called lochia, they are uterine secretions, which include blood, mucus, rejected due to the non-viability of the tissue. Normally, lochia is released for three to six weeks, sometimes this period increases to almost one and a half months. At this stage, the trend towards a decrease in the volume of lochia and their clarification is important - the first seven days of discharge resemble ordinary heavy menstruation, which may contain clots. Gradually, the volume of lochia decreases, and the color changes towards yellow-white shades, which is facilitated by a large amount of mucus contained in them, and bloody inclusions may be present. Closer to about the fourth week, the discharge becomes smearing, at the end of the sixth week (this period can last up to the eighth week), the whites become the same as before the conception of the child.

The hormonal background in women changes significantly in the period before the onset of postmenopause. Consider what the discharge should be at this time - their volume is significantly reduced, for the most part coccal microorganisms are observed, which include streptococci and staphylococci.

It should be remembered: regardless of the period of the menstrual cycle and other circumstances, the release of vaginal secretions should not be accompanied by discomfort. Otherwise, an immediate gynecological examination is necessary.

Signs of pathological discharge

We examined the natural discharge in girls and women, now it is necessary to understand when leucorrhoea becomes pathological and the development of what diseases they accompany. Conditionally pathogenic microorganisms, present in small quantities in the vaginal environment, under the influence of certain reasons, begin to actively multiply and suppress lactobacilli, causing inflammation and processes.

These factors include:

• violated rules of personal hygiene;
• taking antimicrobial drugs;
• hormonal disruptions.

Focusing on the changed properties of leucorrhea, one can assume the development of pathology in the reproductive system, although it is impossible to establish an accurate diagnosis without conducting appropriate tests. Danger signals are:

• Discomfort, itching, burning.
• The secreted mucus becomes foamy, acquires yellow, green or white hues.
• Cheesy clots of white or yellow shades are released from the vagina, irritating the external genitalia.
• Abundant leucorrhoea with the smell of fish is observed, the volume of which increases with sexual arousal.
• Beli acquire a yellow tint, accompanied by problems with urination, pain in the lower abdomen.
• The discharge becomes thick, with inclusions of blood, their smell is strong and unpleasant.
• Between the planned periods, the appearance of bloody discharge is observed.
• When carrying a child, brown or red discharge appears.
• Thick purulent discharge with impurities of blood, with a pungent odor.

Beli is classified according to where exactly they are formed and can be tubal, occurring during inflammatory processes in the fallopian tubes, cervical, appearing with problems in the cervix, uterine, forming in the presence of endometritis.

The safest is the vaginal discharge, which, however, with a change in color or the presence of an unpleasant odor, may indicate the development of trichomoniasis, thrush, gardnerellosis and other pathologies.

Despite the fact that it is not possible to determine the exact cause of pathological changes in mucus without special laboratory tests, focusing on the smell, color and consistency, it can be assumed which disease is taking place. It should be borne in mind that the same signs may indicate different pathologies, therefore an examination by a gynecologist remains a necessity:

• The development of chlamydia may be indicated by foaming whites of a transparent color.
• A gray tint, combined with an unpleasant fishy odor, usually indicates bacterial vaginosis or bacterial vaginosis.
• White leucorrhoea may be a natural phenomenon or indicate thrush. It should be noted that candidiasis in a mild degree may not be accompanied by burning and itching, its usual signs, but the change in the volume of leucorrhoea in the direction of increase, their thick consistency and curdled appearance is of concern.
• Light yellow leucorrhoea can be the norm, a day or two before menstruation is not considered a pathology and a more saturated shade. However, accompanied by a sharp unpleasant odor, with an increase in the allocated volume, irritation and redness of the genital organs, the presence of trichomoniasis can be suspected.
• Green shades are never normal, even in the absence of other symptoms, this is a danger signal. Usually, such secretions warn of the development of vaginal inflammatory processes, since the green color is caused by an increased number of leukocytes. Greenish leucorrhoea can be released with vaginitis, cervicitis, or inflammation of the ovaries.
• Red leucorrhoea becomes from an admixture of blood, immediately before menstruation this is a normal phenomenon, but you should be wary when such mucus appears between menstruation. Breakthrough bleeding indicates a possible oncology of the cervix, endometriosis, spontaneous abortion at the beginning of pregnancy, and others.

Pathological odor can be:

• acidic, which often indicates the reproduction of fungi;
• fish, when vaginosis can be suspected;
• putrid, often indicating the development of malignant neoplasms;
• glandular with secretions with the inclusion of blood.

What to do if vaginal discharge is suspicious? The most reasonable way out is to go to the clinic for an examination and take a smear for analysis, which will identify the causative agent of the problem. Self-medication is unacceptable, since taking pharmaceutical drugs without a doctor's prescription can aggravate the situation.

The most common problem that is addressed to a gynecologist is discharge. In women, this phenomenon causes concern. Of course, it’s worth panicking for this reason, but refusing to consult a doctor is also not an option. Discharge in women may be normal, but in most cases this kind of phenomenon is caused by an infection, fungus or other harmful microorganisms. What allocated secret is the norm, and when it is necessary to sound the alarm - we will find out now.

Normal discharge: signs and causes

Due to the lactobacilli that are in the vagina, discharge is often white in color. Thus, a favorable environment for conception is created, and the development and growth of harmful microorganisms is blocked.

Signs of normal discharge:

• in color transparent, white, creamy, sometimes with a yellowish tinge;
• do not have a specific smell;
• by consistency: liquid, slightly watery, less often - eggs similar to protein;
• in quantity, they should not exceed the volume of 1 tsp;
• expressed more strongly after intercourse, with sexual arousal, before menstruation.

The reasons for this kind of phenomena are often several main factors that every woman experiences in her life. After intercourse, the appearance of a white secret during the day is the norm. During the period of ovulation, white liquid discharge may be observed for one or two days. During pregnancy, perhaps, this phenomenon occurs most often, but you should not worry about this. It is recommended to consult a specialist if red and brownish streaks appear.

1. During pregnancy. Occurs due to hormonal dysfunctions. The blood supply to the genital organs increases, and discharge appears as transparent snot. In the third trimester, the production of mucous structures increases. A liquid secret can be called a pathology only before childbirth.
2. After childbirth. During this period, after 6–8 weeks of blood discharge, the woman again observes transparent, odorless discharge, as it was before childbirth. Pathology is discharge with an unpleasant odor, color, as well as accompanying itching and burning.
3. After menses. The presence of mucous whites during this period is the norm for every woman. As in other cases, deviations are considered: a change in color, smell and the manifestation of various symptoms of irritation.

Mucous discharge

The mucous secreted substance is considered to be the norm. They become opaque already on linen during the day due to the presence of epithelial cells. The secretion of mucus, which does not have a strong odor and does not bring discomfort, is also a confirmation of the normal functioning of the ovaries.

During the day, a woman can secrete about 2 ml of secretion. Do not worry if it has a white tint, as this is the result of cleaning the vagina. The structure and quantity is directly related to the phases of the menstrual cycle.

1. From 1 to 7 days. A secret of a pink or brown hue is released, which from the second to the third day increases in volume and may be accompanied by the release of clots. By the fifth day, the secretion of this kind decreases, for some it disappears completely.
2. From 5 to 14 days. During this period, the egg matures. There is no particular appearance of leucorrhoea at this time, they can stand out up to about 2 ml per day. The color may change from white to yellow.
3. From 14 to 15 days. ovulation period. This period is characterized by the greatest secretion of mucus due to the achievement of the maximum level of estrogen. Often at this time, watery discharge is observed, as well as sticky and more stretchy.
4. From 16 to 28 days. premenstrual period. The work of the reproductive system subsides, the volume of the released secret becomes smaller, but at the end of the cycle, a new surge is possible.

In addition, a similar phenomenon may be the result of climate change, a stressful situation, the use of hormonal drugs, allergies and non-compliance with hygiene rules.

Watery discharge like water in the first weeks is a sign of pregnancy. But if an unpleasant odor is added to them, this is a sure symptom of an infection in the body.

Important! Liquid, clear discharge in the third trimester is a "bell" about the possibility of premature birth.

White discharge

In general, the white secret is also considered the norm for the female body. But there are enough signs that signal a pathology.

These signs are normal. Their number is negligible, and just like the consistency varies depending on the menstrual cycle. They are harmless: they do not irritate the mucous membrane, external genital organs and her skin. Rather, they perform useful properties: they clean the walls of the uterus and vagina from microbes.

White liquid discharge is the result of the secretion of the glands. They are responsible for several functions important for the female body.

1. Hydration. When the body moves, they serve as a barrier to mechanical damage. Thus, the risk of injury during sexual intercourse is reduced.
2. Exchange and food. The glandular secret takes part in metabolic processes, thereby providing cells with useful substances and destroying unnecessary products.
3. Cleansing. The layered structure of the epithelium of the vagina regularly gets rid of the upper layer, new cells are formed in the same place. The produced secret washes out the obsolete layer from the surface.
4. Protection. With good immunity, thanks to whites, the mucous membrane copes with inflammatory processes perfectly. The glandular structures produce more secretion, which prevents microbes from getting deep into the layers.

Sour smell of discharge

A similar symptom indicates the presence of thrush in the body. Another confirmation is the fact that they are curd. General signs can be blurred and occasionally remind of themselves.

Often the cause of this kind of phenomenon is caused by several main factors: hormonal changes in the body, pregnancy, stressful situations, increased fatigue and overwork. Also, thrush can be a consequence of eating spicy foods, a manifestation of allergies, climate change, taking antibacterial drugs, damage to the mucous membrane during intercourse. Undoubtedly, this phenomenon is influenced by wearing low-quality synthetic underwear and non-compliance with hygiene rules.

Important! The treatment of thrush should be dealt with exclusively by a doctor, only he can adequately determine the causes and prescribe the correct treatment. Douching with soda, chamomile and potassium permanganate can lead to complications.

Such a manifestation of the body indicates the presence of causes of a negative nature. The presence of a mucous secretion similar to snot requires a mandatory and immediate examination in several cases.

If the leucorrhoea comes out in a plentiful volume, then most likely this is a sign of thrush. If an unpleasant odor is combined with them, it is possible that we are talking about bacterial vaginosis. Definitely, we can say that the presence of these signs indicates problems with women's health.

White discharge itching and causes

These symptoms are also caused by thrush and bacterial vaginosis. The reasons for which can be various factors: latent infections, diabetes, malnutrition. The presence of these signs prevents a woman from leading a full life. To get rid of an unpleasant ailment, you need to contact a specialist. In this case, doctors prescribe pills and vaginal suppositories. Bacterial vaginosis can only be determined by passing the appropriate tests.

Thick white discharge

The appearance of thick whites can be prevented. But for this it is important to follow some guidelines.

• do not douche with chloride preparations;
• you can not often change sexual partners;
• before using any medication, carefully study the instructions;
• follow the rules of hygiene, change pads more often during menstruation.

yellow discharge

If yellow whites do not bring any discomfort and are not accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, then most likely there is no reason to worry. Although, according to experts, the norm for secretion is white and transparent, in many cases it turns yellow when it gets on underwear. Therefore, it is not necessary to talk about the inflammatory process. Perhaps the reason lies in the change in hormonal levels, taking birth control pills and the transferred stress. Also, the release of a yellow secret with clots can be observed after intercourse if the seed has entered the vagina.

Yellow discharge with odor

A yellowish discharge with an odor most often indicates a sexually transmitted disease. Their pathogens are microorganisms that provoke discomfort, burning and inflammation. In addition, the woman feels severe itching and irritation. In some cases, the disease is combined with other infections.

1. Chlamydia. Yellow discharge is noticeable when viewed on the cervical canal, flowing down the walls of the vagina.
2. Trichomoniasis. The secretion secreted has a rotten smell, it is frothy in structure, and plentiful in volume.
3. Gonorrhea. Allocations are not particularly large. They are yellow-white in color, sometimes brown streaks appear or a blood secret comes out. In the lumbar region, a woman may feel pulling pains.
4. Thrush. Cheesy yellow-white discharge, has a sour smell.
5. Ureaplasmosis and mycoplasmosis. They look like normal vaginal discharge. Redness is observed in the genital area, the woman feels itching.
6. bacterial vaginitis. There is a fishy smell, the discharge is plentiful.

Important! About chronic diseases: erosion of the cervix, inflammation of the uterine appendages and in the fallopian tubes are indicated by yellow discharge in a small amount.

A brown secret often indicates the presence of blood in it. Depending on the amount, blood gives different shades of secretions: red, pink and brown. A secret with a brown tint appears in the case of an insignificant source, since the blood coagulates before being released to the outside and, as a result, darkens.

The causes of brown discharge can be different. This phenomenon is accompanied by many factors. Consider in what situations it is safe, and when a doctor is required.

1. Mechanical damage to the mucosa. These include douching, abortion, cauterization, erosion, and birth trauma. If the damage occurred during gynecological manipulations, the doctor must warn the patient about this. Brown discharge often does not require special treatment; after an injury, the epithelium recovers on its own.
2. Intermenstrual period. Occurs due to hormonal disorders or the use of contraceptives.
3. inflammatory changes. Mucous membranes become more sensitive and easily injured, and as a result, it begins to bleed.
4. Intrauterine device. In the place where the spiral is attached, there is a small area of ​​​​inflammation, so the epithelium is easy to injure. If such a phenomenon occurs on an ongoing basis, it is necessary to remove the spiral.

In addition, pseudo-erosion can also be the cause of brown discharge. The mucosa where the ectopia are located is usually inflamed and may bleed. If a brown secret appeared after a delay, then a pregnancy test must be done. In the postpartum period, women have lochia, which also have different colors from red to brown. They go away on their own and do not require treatment.

Important! But still, brown discharge deserves special attention, as sometimes it can be the cause of a polyp, endometriosis or fibroids.

Often, almost all discharges are the result of an inflammatory process of the cervix, fallopian tubes, vagina and ovaries. The green tint of the secret is due to the content of leukocytes. Allocations of this nature are called leukorrhea, often a manifestation of a bacterial infection.

Symptoms of pathological discharge:

• copious discharge, having a specific color, independent of the day of the menstrual cycle;
• the secreted secret can be of any color, appears before menstruation or in the middle of the cycle, is also accompanied by burning, unpleasant odor and pain in the abdomen;
• spotting before and after menstruation, can be expressed as bleeding in the middle of the menstrual cycle;
• a sharp decrease or increase in blood secretions during menstruation.

Green, odorless discharge

A greenish, odorless discharge can be caused by bacterial vaginosis. The causes of this disease are quite a lot of factors: stress, taking antibacterial drugs, weak immunity, pregnancy, insufficient care for the intimate area.

Bacterial vaginosis leads to a violation of the composition of the microflora and tests may show gardnerellosis. With this disease, a gray-white or green secret is released, it has a fishy smell, which exfoliates with a film. The disease is also expressed in painful urination and pain during intercourse.

Another reason for the green secret is trichomoniasis. This disease is difficult to diagnose, with a small amount of secretion, and irritation of the genital organs is not particularly strong.

The next reason is acute inflammation. In diseases that are chronic, leucorrhoea may be slightly pronounced. If the disease is at the initial stage of development, one should expect abundant discharge. In some inflammatory processes, the temperature may rise from 37 to 37.5 ° C.

Important! Green discharge requires the intervention of a doctor.

Purulent discharge causes

It is the green and yellow-green secret, in which proper treatment was not received, that is the cause of purulent discharge. In other words, we can say that these are complications of certain diseases.

• trichomoniasis;
• vaginitis;
• acute inflammatory processes of the ovaries, fallopian tubes and cervix.

Important! Purulent discharge should not be left without due attention! This is the first "call" about visiting a gynecologist.

Prevention

To avoid pathological discharge, it is worth paying the necessary attention to prevention. When having sex (if you are in doubt about your sexual partner), be sure to use condoms - this will help prevent the risk of genital infections.

Pay special attention to your diet, it must be balanced. The use of sweets in large quantities provokes candidiasis. Include more probiotic foods in your diet that help normalize the microflora.

Use special products for intimate hygiene. Flavored gels cause irritation, which leads to many diseases. Also forget about using scented pads and tampons. Give preference to cotton products, give up synthetics.

The presence of a small amount of vaginal discharge in women is a normal physiological phenomenon. But their abundance, uncharacteristic color or unpleasant odor can be a symptom of a gynecological disease ....

Does vaginal discharge always indicate the presence of any disease? When is vaginal discharge considered normal?
Vaginal discharge can occur even in completely healthy women, and this condition is considered normal. Signs of healthy vaginal discharge include:

• Clear, liquid discharge jelly, slime)
• Discharge without a noticeable odor
• A small amount of discharge
• Discharges that do not cause irritation of the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs
• Discharge, not accompanied by fever, pain or discomfort in the genital area.

Vaginal discharge - what can it be?
Below, readers will be provided with information on the most common forms of vaginal discharge, as well as the reasons that provoke their development.

Vaginal discharge of various colors, odors and textures
A little higher, we have already said that all healthy women have watery, transparent and colorless vaginal discharge. If they acquire a different consistency, a specific smell or some color, then, most likely, some disease has settled in the woman's body:

Bloody (red) vaginal discharge - are a signal that there is blood in the vaginal discharge. In most cases, this kind of discharge occurs two to four days before the onset of menstruation, after which they are converted into copious discharge along with the onset of menstruation. It is worth noting that this kind of discharge tends to be observed even a few days after menstruation. If the discharge is not plentiful, then it is better for a woman not to panic. Especially often this phenomenon is observed in women who wear a spiral.
Quite often, spotting is endowed with a blackish or brown color, which indicates the fact of oxidation, as well as the destruction of blood in the vagina.
There are also cases when a woman has spotting discharge, which contains a small amount of blood. As a rule, perimenstrual bloody discharge does not have a specific smell.

Sometimes mild spotting occurs at the time of ovulation, as well as in women who wear a spiral or use oral contraceptives. In the case of a constant occurrence of this phenomenon against the background of wearing an intrauterine device or using contraceptives, it is necessary to discuss this fact with a gynecologist, having previously signed up for a consultation with him.
If bloody vaginal discharge is in no way connected with the menstrual cycle, then they can be considered a signal of the presence of any pathology.
In most cases, this kind of discharge makes itself felt:

• For menstrual irregularities
• Endometriosis ( adenomyosis)
• Cancer or erosion of the cervix. In this case, the discharge is especially abundant after sexual intercourse.

Purulent vaginal discharge noted in such infectious pathologies as chlamydia, trichomoniasis, thrush, gonorrhea and others. As a rule, this kind of discharge also causes a feeling of discomfort in the genital area and itching. Sometimes women also complain of pain in the lumbar region or lower abdomen. During pregnancy, a whitish viscous vaginal discharge is considered to be a normal condition if there are no other symptoms of the disease in the expectant mother.

Curdled, frothy, thick vaginal discharge
A change in the consistency of vaginal discharge is also considered to be one of the clear signs of the presence of a particular pathology. A little higher, we have already said that normal secretions must be liquid, similar to mucus. If the discharge is white curdled or foamy, then most likely the woman has some kind of infectious disease.

Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor
The appearance of vaginal discharge, endowed with a specific odor, indicates the presence of an infectious pathology. The smell in this case can be both sour and rotten or resemble the smell of fish. It occurs against the background of the vital activity of pathogens, which tend to decompose nutritional components, while releasing gases endowed with a very unpleasant odor.

Vaginal discharge before and after sexual intercourse
At the time of sexual arousal, the vaginal glands of the fair sex tend to intensively synthesize vaginal lubrication, so a large amount of transparent liquid discharge that occurs before and during sexual intercourse is considered to be the norm. Women should not be afraid of the appearance of thick, abundant discharge after sexual contact. The fact is that if sexual intercourse took place without the use of a condom, then it is quite possible that in this way the vagina is trying to clear itself of sperm. In most cases, this kind of discharge disappears in a fairly short period of time.
If a woman has spotting during or after sex, then most likely she has cervical erosion.
The appearance of yellow, purulent, white, gray or greenish discharge a few days or weeks after sexual contact is considered to be a signal of the occurrence of an infectious disease.

Vaginal discharge as a symptom of an infection
Vaginal discharge is considered to be a clear sign of the development of an infectious pathology of the genital tract in only a few cases. The greatest number of pathologies in which vaginal discharge is noted are infectious and are transmitted during sexual contact.
The most common causes of vaginal discharge include:

• candidiasis ( thrush)
• Urogenital trichomoniasis

Diagnosis of urogenital trichomoniasis
It is impossible to make an accurate diagnosis of urogenital trichomoniasis, considering only the presence of discharge and some other symptoms of this pathology.
To identify this pathology, it is necessary to conduct such studies as:

• The cultural method of research is the cultivation of colonies of microorganisms taken from the vagina on special nutrient media and their further study.
• Microscopic examination of unstained ( native) swab taken from the vagina.
• PCR (polymerase chain reaction) research method involving the study of genetic material Trichomonas vaginalis .
• Microscopic examination of a stained vaginal smear. It is dyed with special dyes.

Therapy for urogenital trichomoniasis is possible only if a woman has been given a truly accurate diagnosis of this pathology. Among the most effective medicines used in the fight against this pathology, one can rank: Nimorazole, Metronidazole , Ornidazole, Tinidazole and others. It is very important that the therapy of this disease is carried out under the vigilant supervision of a doctor. Self-treatment in this case is not recommended, since this pathology, with irrational treatment, can become chronic. As a rule, during the treatment of urogenital trichomoniasis, vaginal discharge first becomes weaker, after which it disappears completely. It is also important to draw the attention of readers to the fact that the absence of discharge is not a fact of complete healing, so the course of treatment must be carried out to the end. How long it will last, your doctor will determine.

Bacterial vaginosis as a cause contributing to the development of vaginal discharge
Bacterial vaginosis is a very common pathology, accompanied by secretions that are endowed with an unpleasant odor. This disease occurs as a result of a very strong growth of bacteria directly on the mucous membrane of the vagina. In a healthy state, these bacteria are also found in the vagina, but only in very small quantities. Among them can be counted as Peptococci, and Gerdenerella vaginalis , Bacteroids and others. With the development of this pathology, a woman has white vaginal discharge, endowed with the smell of fish. To make a diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis, it is not enough just to know about the presence of secretions.

Diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis involves the use of such research methods as:

• pH-metry, or detection of the acidity of the vaginal environment. In the normal state, the vagina has an acidic environment, but in the case of bacterial vaginosis, it becomes alkaline.

Therapy for bacterial vaginosis involves the use of local drugs, namely:

• Vaginal suppositories clindamycin ( one hundred milligrams) - must be inserted into the vagina once a day for six days.
• Gel metronidazole seventy-five percent - must be inserted into the vagina once a day for five days.

• Ornisid forte should be taken orally five hundred milligrams in the morning and evening for five days.
• Clindamycin take in capsules of three hundred milligrams in the morning and evening for seven days.
• Metronidazole(Trichopol) in the form of tablets of two hundred and fifty milligrams. Take two tablets in the morning and evening for seven days.

Urogenital candidiasis (thrush) as a cause contributing to the occurrence of vaginal discharge
Urogenital candidiasis is an inflammatory pathology of the genital organs in women and men, resulting from exposure to the body of fungi of the genus Candida. In women, with the development of this disease, white thick discharge is observed. In addition, they may be disturbed by discomfort, as well as itching in the genital area. Quite often, this disease also causes pain and cramps during urination.

Diagnosis of thrush involves the use of the following research methods:

• Microscopic examination of unstained swabs taken from the vagina.
• Examination under a microscope of swabs stained with special dyes taken from the vagina.
• A mycological study involving the detection of a type of fungus that provoked the development of urogenital candidiasis.

• Clotrimazole vaginal tablets two hundred milligrams - must be injected into the vagina once a day for three days.
• Vaginal cream clotrimazole one percent should be injected into the vagina once a day for seven to fourteen days.
• Isoconazole- vaginal suppositories of six hundred milligrams. It is recommended to enter into the vagina once.

• Itraconazole (Irunin, Orungal) should be taken two hundred milligrams once a day for three days.
• Fluconazole ( Diflucan, Flucostat, Mycomax) - is used according to several treatment regimens: one hundred and fifty milligrams once, or one hundred milligrams on the first, fourth, and also the seventh day of therapy.

Vaginal discharge during pregnancy
Vaginal discharge is especially alarming for expectant mothers, since during this period they are responsible not only for themselves, but also for the child. In fact, every pregnant woman should pay special attention to the nature of vaginal discharge in order to “sound the alarm” at the right time.

Discharge in early pregnancy
A little higher, we already said that abundant clear discharge in the first months of pregnancy, which are not endowed with a specific odor, is normal.
If a woman has spotting during this period, then this can serve as a signal of an unexpected miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.
Whitish or purulent vaginal discharge in the early stages of pregnancy is considered to be a sign of the development of a particular infectious pathology.

Discharge in late pregnancy
In the second trimester of pregnancy in a healthy pregnant woman, vaginal discharge may become thicker and more viscous. This phenomenon is the norm. If the vaginal discharge is bloody, this may signal the onset of preterm labor or miscarriage, so in such cases, emergency hospitalization of the expectant mother is recommended. Brown vaginal discharge in late pregnancy is quite often due to minor bleeding from the vessels of the cervix. In this case, a pregnant woman should also visit a doctor.

When should you see a doctor for vaginal discharge?

Normal secretions are in a small volume, translucent, transparent or whitish in color, watery, creamy or jelly-like consistency, with a slight sour smell. Normal discharge does not irritate the genitals, does not cause discomfort, itching, redness or swelling. Also, normal secretions do not emit a strong or unpleasant odor (eg fishy odor, strong sour odor, etc.).

In addition, slight bloody or brownish discharge is considered normal 2 to 4 days before and after menstruation. It is also normal to have mild spotting for several days during the ovulation period.

Spotting is considered pathological not before or after menstruation, and also not during ovulation. In addition, pathological discharges are greenish, yellowish, grayish, earthy in color, containing impurities of pus, blood, flakes, vesicles, having a curdled or other heterogeneous consistency, emitting an unpleasant pungent odor or causing itching, burning, swelling, redness and discomfort in the genital area. organs.

Which doctor should I contact with pathological vaginal discharge?

If within two weeks after intercourse the nature of the discharge has changed, impurities of pus, mucus, flakes or vesicles have appeared in them, they have turned greenish, yellowish, grayish or earthy in color, they have begun to emit an unpleasant odor, then the woman can also contact a venereologist or a gynecologist, since such discharge indicates infection with an infectious disease.

What tests can doctors prescribe for vaginal discharge?

First of all, for any nature of the discharge, the doctor prescribes a gynecological bimanual examination (with hands) and an examination of the tissues of the vagina and cervix in the mirrors. These studies are considered routine and are performed without fail when a woman contacts a medical facility for any kind of vaginal discharge.

Further, if there is a fairly heavy bleeding (bleeding, as during menstruation, in the same or more quantity), the doctor usually prescribes an ultrasound examination (ultrasound) (endometrial hyperplasia. If the cervix is ​​not damaged, then with minor bleeding / blood smearing is prescribed hysteroscopy, diagnostic curettage and ultrasound.

With pathological discharges of an inflammatory nature (with a greenish, yellowish, grayish, earthy color, containing impurities of pus, blood, flakes, vesicles, having a curdled or other heterogeneous consistency, emitting an unpleasant pungent odor or leading to itching, burning, swelling, redness and discomfort in the genital area) the doctor always prescribes first swab for flora (make an appointment), which allows you to identify a number of the following infectious diseases: candidiasis, trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, gonorrhea (sign up). These genital infections are most common compared to others, and therefore, at the first stage, the doctor does not prescribe more expensive and complex tests, because a simple smear on the flora allows them to be detected.

If, according to the results of the smear, it was possible to identify candidiasis, trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis or gonorrhea, then the doctor can go in two ways - either immediately prescribe treatment, or take a smear from the vagina for bacteriological and mycological culture to determine which antibiotics and antifungal agents will be most detrimental to the infectious agent present in the particular case. If the immediately prescribed treatment is ineffective, then the doctor prescribes a bacteriological or mycological culture.

If, according to the results of the smear, no infectious agents were found, but there is a picture of inflammation, then the doctor prescribes more complex tests to identify pathogenic microbes. Usually, first of all, an analysis of the vaginal discharge for the presence of Trichomonas and gonococci is prescribed by PCR and blood test for syphilis (pale treponema) (make an appointment), since these pathogens are most common. If, according to the results of the analysis, those are found, then treatment is prescribed.

If gonococci, Trichomonas or pale treponema are not detected, then it is prescribed analysis for ureaplasma (sign up), chlamydia (sign up), mycoplasma (sign up), gardnerella, bacteroids. Analyzes for these pathogens can be different - bacteriological culture, PCR, ELISA, and various methods of taking and staining smears from the vagina. The choice of analysis is made by the doctor and depends mainly on the technical capabilities of the medical institution or on the financial capabilities of the patient, since the most accurate analyzes most often have to be taken in private laboratories for a fee.

If the results of the tests revealed the absence of trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, syphilis, candidiasis, ureaplasmosis, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis and gardnerellosis, but there is an inflammatory process in the genitals, then the doctor may prescribe tests for the presence of viruses - herpes virus types 1 and 2, human papillomavirus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, which are also capable of provoking inflammation in the genitals of a woman.

Pregnant women with suspected amniotic fluid leakage are usually prescribed a vaginal smear test for scales. In addition, there are pharmacy, ready-to-use tests for amniotic fluid leakage, which are similar in principle to pregnancy tests. A pregnant woman can use such tests on her own. Otherwise, when inflammatory discharge from the vagina appears, pregnant women are prescribed the same tests as non-pregnant women. And when bleeding occurs during pregnancy, women are sent to the hospital for examination, since in a similar position they can be a sign of pregnancy complications.

What will the discharge in early pregnancy tell about?

Smirnova Olga (gynecologist, GSMU, 2010)

Vaginal discharge in women is a consequence of the occurrence of certain processes in the body. Mucus from the cervical canal performs important functions of the reproductive system. And according to the state of the fluid released, it is possible to diagnose a violation at an early stage of development.

What discharge in women is considered normal

There is no clear picture of what a healthy woman's discharge should be. However, doctors argue that the rate of discharge in women has the following relative characteristics:

1. Volume. A few milliliters per day, but not more than 5 ml. You can determine by daily pads, on which the stain should not exceed 1 or 1.5 cm in diameter.
2. Consistency. . Fairly thick but no lumps. Watery are allowed only in a certain period of the cycle, during pregnancy and with strong arousal.
3. Structure. Homogeneous without lumps, large clots or flakes. Minor seals up to 4 mm are allowed.
4. Aroma. due to the environment of the vagina, but more often the smell is completely absent.

To assess your condition, you need to study what color the selection should be:

• transparent;
• white;
• beige;
• yellow.

The importance of the secret and its composition

Many women try to get rid of any vaginal discharge, considering it to be unnatural and pathological. But cervical fluid or mucus plays an important role in the functioning of the reproductive system and maintaining women's health.

The vaginal secret normally has the following composition:

1. Cellular and fluid components. The uterine mucosa is constantly updated, old cells die off, join the vaginal discharge fluid and go outside. Plasma and lymph transudate may be present.
2. Mucus of the cervical canal. The cervix contains special glands that produce secretion, thereby protecting the reproductive system from the penetration and further reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms.
3. Bacteria and fungi of the vaginal flora. The sexual microflora contains not only useful lactobacilli, but also conditionally harmful microorganisms in a small amount. In a healthy girl, these pathogens die and come out along with the vaginal secretion.
4. Leukocytes. According to their content, it is possible to diagnose the presence of an inflammatory process. Limit of norm - 10 pcs. in a smear, but minor deviations are allowed.

Women's secretions have many functions:

• self-cleaning of the vagina;
• maintaining a healthy microflora;
• fight against harmful bacteria, bacilli, fungi;
• natural hydration during intercourse;
• removal of dead cells;
• protection of the fetus during pregnancy.

The most important purpose of the vaginal secret is the early warning of a woman about adverse processes in the reproductive system.

What affects the vaginal secretion

Ovulation. The fertile period is characterized by the release of a large amount of fluid, which is easily stretched between the fingers, resembling snot or egg white. Mucus can be white, transparent, beige. Sometimes there is an admixture of blood, which indicates a favorable moment of conception.

second phase of the cycle. The vaginal secret becomes much less, sometimes it disappears altogether. The liquid has a creamy or jelly-like consistency.

A few days before menstruation, spotting is allowed, which signal the approach of monthly bleeding.

The nature of normal discharge in women (photo above) is modified according to the time of the cycle, but this is not the rule for every case. Sometimes they continue to be produced in large quantities and remain liquid without discomfort, which indicates a hormonal surge or lack of progesterone.

Reasons for minor deviations

It is important to find out what discharge is considered normal from the vagina under certain conditions. Change the nature of secretion without the presence of diseases of the reproductive system can:

• pregnancy;
• premenopause;
• menopause;
• recent birth of a child;
• lactation period;
• taking birth control pills;
• treatment with certain drugs.

Depending on the specific cause, the consistency, amount and color of natural secretions in women change, but not for long. You should consult a doctor if the fluid from the vagina has an unpleasant odor or has other symptoms, such as itching, burning, severe pain.

How to identify a disease

The most common cause of pathological discharge in women is a violation of the vaginal microbiocenosis. Causes changes in the normal functioning of the microflora of the vagina, non-observance of hygiene of the genital organs or excessive douching with water or special solutions.

And also the problems of self-cleaning of the vagina arise against the background of:

• use of antibiotics;
• hormonal treatment;
• taking oral contraceptives;
• diabetes;
• weakened immunity.

It is advisable to study the nature of the discharge in girls in terms of color and smell, since these two signs will help to understand what is happening in the body and whether there is a reason to contact a gynecologist and pass the necessary tests.

Transparent

Even colorless mucus from the vagina can indicate certain disorders:
Inflammation of the endometrium or appendages. The amount of cervical fluid with an unpleasant odor increases against the background of endometritis and andexitis. In advanced cases, the mucus contains blood clots.

Dysbiosis. The disease is accompanied by redness of the external genital organs, abundant watery fluid from the vagina,.

White

The type of vaginal discharge in women plays a significant role in the study of the current state of the reproductive system. Knowing the features of a normal secret from the vagina, it is possible to detect the disease at an early stage in time and, with the help of a doctor, choose a treatment.

Discharge in girls and women should always be present - this is the natural state of the vaginal mucosa. In addition, thanks to the secretions, the vagina can independently cleanse itself of pathogens, necrotic cells, mucus and menstrual blood. In most cases, the natural discharge is colorless, but some girls and women may have a white discharge, so a reasonable question arises as to whether such discharge is the norm or a symptom of some kind of pathology.

When is white discharge considered normal?

Quite often, white discharge in girls occurs somewhat more abundantly, compared with women of middle and reproductive age, as well as during menopause. This can be explained by the fact that the body is in the formation stage, the hormonal background begins to stabilize, while in middle-aged women this process has already been completed and has a stable character. It is normal for both girls and women in the premenopausal period to have a slightly acidic environment in the vagina due to the presence of lactobacilli that form lactic acid. This environment is detrimental to harmful microorganisms, and it is also unfavorable for the reproduction of pathogenic bacteria. So what kind of discharge can be considered the norm?

In terms of color, the discharge should not be particularly noticeable, in most cases they are transparent, however, the predominance of slightly yellow, white or cream shades is possible.

Normal discharge should not smell.

The consistency of the whites should be watery, liquid, during ovulation, the discharge is transparent and stretchy.

The norm of daily secretions should not be more than a teaspoon.

The amount of discharge may increase after intercourse, with sexual arousal, before menstruation.

Why does a girl have white discharge and sour smell?

White mucous discharge in women and girls is called leucorrhoea. Such secretions are a natural waste product of the female body, since the cells of the vaginal mucosa are constantly being updated. Dead cells are in a state of constant sloughing and mixing with mucus. In addition, exudate from the cervix is ​​also part of the leucorrhoea, therefore, physiologically, during the process of ovulation, the amount of discharge from the uterine cervix increases, acquires a mucous, more stretching character. It is normal when the discharge is colorless or has a white tint, provided that the woman is not bothered by pain, burning and itching in the vagina.

But if discharge with a sour smell and a white tint is released, discomfort, itching occurs, which are either permanent or periodic, one can assume the presence of vaginal candidiasis. There are many reasons why women develop thrush - too frequent douching, synthetic underwear, malnutrition - diets, a large amount of sweets, climate change, stressful situations, taking antibiotics, abuse of colored toilet paper, intimate hygiene products (antibacterial and flavored), violation hygiene, pregnancy (because immunity decreases), taking hormonal contraceptives, hormonal disruptions and adjustments.

What discharge may indicate the presence of the disease?

Under the condition of a decrease in general or local immunity, hormonal failures, and the use of antibiotics, the opportunistic microflora, which is present in the body normally and does not harm the vagina before, begins to activate and multiply uncontrollably, which provokes the inflammatory process. If a girl has the following character of leucorrhoea, this indicates the presence of any pathologies and disorders that require a thorough diagnosis by a specialist:

Too abundant curdled thick white discharge. When the discharge resembles cottage cheese in its consistency, while there is burning and itching in the vagina, especially if you sit with your legs crossed, you can talk about a vivid manifestation of thrush. In this case, vaginal candidiasis does not depend on the presence of sexual activity.

Abundant, frothy discharge - more than 1 teaspoon per day.

Discharge of any pronounced color - green, yellow, brown or other bright shade.

Offensive odor - the smell of onions, sour, putrid odor, the smell of fish.

In the presence of any discharge, especially if they are accompanied by itching, discomfort and dryness during intercourse, pain in the lower abdomen, redness of the external genital organs, constant pain after and during intercourse, fever, pain and burning sensation during urination.

If the discharge began to change volume, smell, color, and discomfort appeared in the genital area, we can talk about the presence of pathological changes, the cause of which should be clarified. In addition, the discharge can have a different origin, namely, come from different parts of the genital area. Whites are classified by origin as follows:

Uterine leucorrhoea - in the presence of endometritis of various etiologies. Inflammatory exudate at the same time passes through the cervical canal and flows into the vagina, gradually mixing with vaginal discharge.

Cervical leucorrhoea - occurs with cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix) of any origin. The cause may be gonorrhea, ureaplasmosis, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis.

Vaginal leucorrhoea - the most harmless discharge that occurs with inflammatory pathologies of the vagina, can be yellow, white, often combined with an unpleasant odor. The cause may be thrush, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis.

Tube whites - occur when the fallopian tubes become inflamed, fluid begins to accumulate in the uterine tubes, which first enters the uterine cavity, and then flows down the cervical canal into the vagina.

Is it possible to determine the disease by the color of the discharge?

Unfortunately, there can be more than a hundred reasons that provoke the nature and color of the discharge, therefore, based on the appearance of the discharge, no competent gynecologist will make a diagnosis. Theoretically, only in the presence of abundant curdled discharge, which is accompanied by burning and itching in the vagina, can we talk about the presence of a woman or girl with thrush. But vaginal candidiasis can be combined with other sexually transmitted infections, so the final diagnosis can only be made on the basis of a smear and bacterial culture, as well as the results of an analysis for the presence of sexually transmitted infections. The color of the highlights can only give a small hint as to the directions to look for the root cause:

Transparent discharge that foams indicates signs of chlamydia.

The gray shade of whiter, along with the characteristic smell of fish, may indicate the presence of bacterial vaginosis, gardnerellosis.

Yellow discharge is one of the signs of trichomoniasis, since with the development of trichomoniasis, the inflammatory process is most often localized in the vagina, the concentration of leukocytes in which is lower.

Greenish discharge - present in the presence of a purulent process, since a large number of leukocytes stain the discharge green. Accordingly, the stronger the inflammatory process, the greater the number of leukocytes concentrated in this area, respectively, and the shade is greener.

White discharge in girls can indicate both the development of thrush and be the norm. The fact is that with mild thrush, there is no significant burning and itching, they can only occur occasionally and are not very pronounced, therefore, in the event of the appearance of abundant, too thick, white curdled discharge, you need to contact a gynecologist, who will find out the true cause of the appearance of such whites and say Is it normal or pathological.

But the color of whiter should not be regarded as a diagnostic tool, only with the help of analysis can an accurate diagnosis be determined and candidiasis be detected.

When should you see a doctor if you have white discharge?

In the case of the release of white whites in volumes of no more than 1 teaspoon per day and in the absence of unpleasant symptoms, do not worry. But if the discharge is very plentiful, thick, curdled, frothy and has a green, gray, yellow, brown color, has a fetid odor, while there is burning, itching, fever to subfebrile or high numbers, a painful syndrome, you should immediately contact a gynecologist.

First, the doctor will examine the chair. It will determine with the help of a mirror the appearance of the walls of the vagina, the cervix, whether there is inflammation in them and whether there is a pathological discharge from the cervix.

In some cases, colposcopy may be required to rule out or diagnose erosion or dysplasia.

In case of suspicion of the presence of STIs, in addition to the usual smear for culture and flora, materials can be sent for a PCR study.

If the patient has pain, cycle disorders, and if an inflammatory process is suspected in the appendages and the uterus itself, a transvaginal ultrasound is indicated, which will help establish a complete clinical picture.