Discharges like boogers. What to do with mucus discharge in women. Stringy discharge in women during menstruation

Mucus from the vagina should always be - this is a characteristic feature of the female body. But what discharge is normal? This is not known to all women, and therefore their discovery often causes panic. Such complaints are the most common when referring to a gynecologist. So, discharge from the vagina is physiological and pathological.

Discharge first occurs during the neonatal period until the age of one month. This mucus is nothing but the remnants of the mother's sex hormones after childbirth, which the girl's body gets rid of by bringing them out. This process is completed within a month, then until the age of 9 there is complete rest and a break. During this period, the ovaries are inactive, and hormones are produced at a minimum. After 9-10 years of age, work begins on the production of estrogen, and periodically begins to appear transparent mucus from the vagina, resembling the white of a raw egg. It has a sour smell, whitish color with a slight yellowish tint.

Exactly one year before menarche, the vaginal mucosa begins to rebuild, and the first liquid discharge of the color of diluted milk appears. Then comes the menarche, and they become cyclical, depending on the MC. The secretions are responsible for the cleanliness of the vagina, protect it from infections, moisturize it and maintain a healthy microflora. By evening, the underwear is slightly moistened, which begins to cause anxiety when the norm is not known. The volume of mucus per day does not exceed 4-5 ml, and when a woman begins to achieve complete and absolute dryness in the vagina with manic persistence, this does not lead to anything good, because first of all, the balance of the microflora of the vagina is disturbed.

The production of mucus occurs in the glands of the cervical canal (cervical mucus) and the Bartholin glands in the vestibule of the vagina, while the vagina itself has no glands. There are many physiological reasons when the quality and quantity of mucus begins to change temporarily, among them are the MC itself, pregnancy, childbirth, the period of breastfeeding, a change of partner, sexual arousal, etc.

The secretions usually contain lactobacilli (Dederlein's sticks - make up 95% of the entire microflora of the vagina), lymph, plasma, dead epithelial cells, single leukocytes and mucus itself. The composition of the mucus contains glycogen - necessary to nourish the microflora (most of it on the day of ovulation) and lactic acid - the result of the vital activity of the lactobacilli themselves.

Manifestations in MC

The amount and consistency of mucus changes throughout the cycle and this process is controlled by the ovaries. In the first phase, when the follicle is maturing, before ovulation, estrogens are actively working; discharge occurs in small quantities. They are slimy or watery. The onset of ovulation divides the cycle into 2 parts, on the eve of the mucus becomes white, viscous, plentiful. In the 2nd half, estrogen decreases and progesterone is activated. The amount of mucus is also reduced; it becomes viscous, thick and creamy.

Cervical mucus - has an alkaline reaction, it protects the spermatozoa and ensures their safety. It is abundant during the period of preparation for ovulation and after it. This is necessary so that male cells can reach the fallopian tubes.

Other physiological causes

Among them are:

first sexual contact;
change of partner;
sexual arousal;
unprotected sexual contact;
with protected contact - immediately after it, the discharge also becomes white, thick, resembling a lubricant;
taking contraceptives, breastfeeding, pregnancy and childbirth.

After childbirth, not only mucus, but also lochia (sanitary discharge) can be released from the vagina. The endometrium of the uterus also produces mucus, especially in anticipation of the onset of fertilization. Allocations change both during menopause and before it: during these periods, the hormonal background changes, and estrogen production decreases.

Mucus is normal if:

it has a transparent or slightly whitish hue; underwear from such secretions in the evening may acquire a yellowish tint, but this is the norm.
no unpleasant odor;
there are no impurities;
the volume does not exceed 4-5 ml;
the discharge of mucus from the vagina does not cause any inconvenience to the woman and is not accompanied by fever, pain, pain, burning.

During the examination, the degree of purity of the vagina is always determined, there are only 4 of them:

1 degree - there are no pathogens, the reaction is acidic, lactobacilli prevail, there are no pathogens;
2 degree - leukocytes up to 10, lactobacilli are somewhat reduced, there are pathogens, but the reaction is acidic; the first 2 degrees indicate that the woman is healthy, pathologies do not have the possibility of development.
3 degree - the reaction becomes alkaline, pathogenic conditional pathogens prevail, there are a lot of leukocytes;
Grade 4 - lactobacilli are absent, completely leukocytes, pathogens, Dederlein sticks are absent. These degrees are pathology.

It is often observed that a healthy woman, accustomed to normal discharges that do not disturb her, gets used to this and may miss the appearance of her whites. Therefore, a preventive examination by a gynecologist at least once every six months is mandatory.

Pathological discharge

Beli - the so-called pathological discharge from the vagina, which differ from the norm in their color, smell, volume, consistency. They may be accompanied by other symptoms: malaise, a constant feeling of moisture in the perineum, pain in the lower abdomen, itching, burning, and an unpleasant smell of discharge.

Leucorrhea occurs as a result of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the MPS, STIs, tumors, injuries, after taking OK, frequent douching, prolapse of the walls of the vagina, allergies to underwear, latex, intimate care products. Altered snot-like mucous discharge from the vagina in a large volume can appear with:

hypothermia;
unprotected sex;
non-compliance with hygiene during menstruation (in this case, infection enters the open cervix and the wound surface of the uterine cavity);
ingress of foreign objects into the vagina;
diabetes mellitus;
polyps and other benign formations in the uterine cavity;
erosions, cervicitis, salpingo-oophoritis, vaginitis, adnexitis, malignant processes in the uterus.

With cancer of the uterus, the discharge is abundant, almost transparent, watery, with an unpleasant odor, possibly with an admixture of blood. With inflammation of the endometrium, the mucous membrane of the cervix, they become mucous-watery, liquid, and leave dirty marks on the pads.

white slime

In many cases, white mucus from the vagina is a symptom of gardnerellosis, candidiasis. The latter is always a symptom of a decrease in immunity, it can develop even with a diet high in carbohydrates, with a change of sexual partner, and frequent douching with antiseptics. It is characterized by the appearance of cheesy and mucous white discharge with a kefir smell, the appearance of raids on the walls of the vagina, under which there is a bleeding surface.

Pathology is accompanied by severe itching, pain, burning and increased urination; urine output may decrease. Pain in the lower abdomen and dyspareunia join.

Gardnerellosis - most often found in bacterial vaginosis - an imbalance in the microflora of the vagina, when the lactoflora is replaced by opportunistic pathogens, which are activated and become pathogenic. Since there are many pathogens here, vaginitis has become known as vaginosis. Risk factors for this common condition include:

indiscriminate use of antibiotics;
various violations of the MC;
prolonged presence of the IUD in the vagina;
reception OK.

With this pathology, the discharge increases after intercourse and on the eve of menstruation. They are plentiful, have a white or grayish tint, foam, have the smell of rotten fish.

With genital herpes, the discharge is similar to watery snot, accompanied by the appearance of vesicles with cloudy contents on the mucous membrane and skin, which burst, forming weeping and erosion.

With chlamydia, a snot-like mass is released from the vagina. It is white in color, profuse, always combined with other symptoms of inflammation in the form of itching and pain in the abdomen, dyspareunia, etc.

Erosions, uterine prolapse, cervicitis - the discharge is also watery-mucous, in large volume. Accompanied by symptoms of inflammation, abdominal pain, burning during miction. Then comes the bad smell.

With inflammation of the uterine appendages (salpingoophoritis), moderate pain in the groin is observed with irradiation to the lower back, inner thigh. At the same time, whites are of tubal origin, that is, they are watery, plentiful. Necessarily there are violations of the MC.

Vulvitis is characterized by inflammation of the external genitalia; secretions are mucous, white, burning and itching are present. Most often they develop with STIs, and different pathogens produce different whites.

With ureaplasmosis, the discharge is abundant, white, creamy. With trichomoniasis, they are foamy, watery, with pus; pain, itching and burning during urination, dyspareunia are observed; the vulva is edematous, hyperemic. After menstruation, all symptoms appear especially.

With ovarian dysfunction, the discharge is liquid white, they have no smell. The cycle is constantly broken. They differ from normal secretions only in volume, it is increased. It creates a feeling of moisture in the perineum. Underwear gets dirty. Conception in such patients is always difficult.

With reduced estrogen production with various hormonal disorders, discharge and ovulation may be completely absent throughout the MC in women of childbearing age, which is a pathology and requires treatment by a doctor.

Changes during pregnancy

When the zygote attaches to the wall of the uterus, a mucous clot immediately forms and, in the form of a plug, clogs the cervix until the end of pregnancy. It will protect the fetus and uterus from the penetration of foreign agents, preserving the fetus. The secretions become whitish in color, they increase, become more viscous. They do not have an unpleasant odor. Especially a lot of them after conception and before childbirth. Pregnant women should especially take care of hygiene and wear cotton underwear. In the first trimester, the mucus is white, and from 14-15 weeks the secret becomes more viscous, transparent. With abundant discharge, you can use pads, preferably with lactic acid; tampons cannot be used. From the 38th week, the discharge is growing again, the body is preparing for childbirth. The amount of mucus can increase up to 20 ml. The cervix gradually expands, as if moving down from the fetal egg, and the cork comes out (it may not come out immediately, but gradually). Her exit coincides with the first contractions. The onset of labor is marked by the moment when the cork is completely out.

Principles of treatment

Treatment depends entirely on the cause of the pathology. With an infectious onset - antibacterial therapy, antibiotics are especially important. With fungi - antifungal drugs, viruses - antiviral, in particular, Acyclovir; according to indications - immunomodulators, probiotics, enzymes, etc. Local treatment is also used in the form of ointments, suppositories, sitz baths, physiotherapy, etc.

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 tint;
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.

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.
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.
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.

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.

The mucus that women sometimes see in their underwear is the secretion of the glands of the cervix. This phenomenon has its own natural purpose - cleaning the genital tract and protecting the female organs from various kinds of infections.

The "qualitative" parameters of such a phenomenon largely depend not only on the woman's health, but also on the phase of the menstrual cycle. Also, in order to protect the uterus, during pregnancy there is an increase in the volume of this secretion.

But not always transparent excretion is the norm. Mucous discharge from the vagina is associated with many diseases. There are a number of reasons that directly affect this phenomenon. These include:

hormonal changes that occur throughout the cycle, both before and after menstruation;
pregnancy - during this period, the body begins to produce more estrogens, which affect the volume and composition of secretions;
a state of excitement - here we mean both sexual and stressful;
if the environment changes dramatically, in particular the climate;
taking hormonal drugs;
allergic reaction;
improper care of intimate areas.

All these points are easy to resolve, and not always even qualified assistance is needed. A woman must understand that her vagina also requires the selection of special cosmetics and other hygiene products.

Mucous surfaces and skin in such a place are no less demanding than on the face or hands. Therefore, if a girl began to notice transparent mucous secretions in her underwear, then first you should try changing the type of pad or hygiene product.

Types of discharge in women

There are vestibular, vaginal, cervical, uterine and tubal leucorrhoea.

Vestibular leucorrhoea is usually mucous, most often caused by inflammation of the vulva or large glands. The secret of the sebaceous and sweat glands can accumulate in the folds of the vulva, which leads to irritation. Vestibular leucorrhea is relatively rare.

With a massive introduction of pathogenic microbes into the vagina, violations of hormonal and immune homeostasis, the biocenosis of the vagina is disturbed and vaginal discharge appears.

Male discharge

Discharge and gynecology are two inseparable concepts in the life of every woman. In everyday life, each representative of the weaker sex notices moderate, transparent, not causing discomfort discharge.

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As soon as their color, smell, texture changes, painful and other unpleasant sensations are added to this - we are talking about a pathology or disease.

It can be infectious, inflammatory, hormonal or tumor pathologies. All of them have a number of symptoms, one of which is specific discharge.

Alina, 32 years old: “In my youth, I had several abortions, and did not properly monitor my body after. Somehow I began to notice spotting between my periods, which after a few months turned into white, while I felt a pulling pain in my side.

Having passed the diagnostics, I learned from the doctor that this is the phenomenon of uterine fibroids, which affected the fallopian tubes. Medicines did not help, treated with a myomectomy.

Now I am attentive to any changes that occur to me. ”

Olga, 43 years old: “Last year, after a holiday romance, I began to observe yellowish discharge with a smell. Two weeks later, pain during urination and pain in the lower abdomen joined.

I didn’t know how to treat it, I looked for photos of similar symptoms on the Internet, and eventually turned to my doctor. They diagnosed trichomoniasis.

She was treated with candles for a long time and regretted that she had not thought about protection beforehand.

Most often, discharge in the form of snot appears in the middle of the menstrual cycle, which indicates the readiness of a mature female germ cell for fertilization. During ovulation, a woman observes an increase in mucous white discharge resembling egg white.

Those women who have a well-established cycle and work “by the clock” can, by the appearance of these secretions, know exactly when the days favorable for conception come.

If a couple is planning a child, then discharge in the form of snot is a signal for active action, but if not, then with increased discharge from the vagina in the form of a viscous protein, one should be more careful to protect themselves.

At the end of the ovulation period, the mucous transparent discharge is replaced by a creamy white, which, when dried, can leave yellow marks on the linen. This physiological phenomenon and the ongoing changes in the nature of mucus are due to the hormonal background.

In the complete absence of snot-like discharge from the vagina during the cycle, you should consult a doctor for examination, as this may signal an estrogen deficiency or an anovulatory cycle.

Discharge in women like snot with blood is observed after menstruation, as a rule, already in the last days of menstruation, thus, the uterus is cleared of blood clots and veins accumulated inside.

An admixture of blood in the mucous secretions can also be observed after a gynecological examination or diagnostic procedures - this is caused by minor damage to the vaginal mucosa with instruments or injury to erosion that begins to bleed.

Discharge in the form of snot, which has an unpleasant odor, is colored yellow, green or gray, foamy, abundant, curdled, indicates diseases of the genitourinary system, including those transmitted through sexual contact.

These include:

Gardrenellosis - discharge is abundant, mucous, gray in color with an unpleasant smell of fish;
Vaginal candidiasis - thick mucous discharge in large quantities in the form of cottage cheese flakes with a characteristic sour smell;
Gonorrhea - discharge is abundant, mucous, green or yellow, due to the admixture of pus;
Genital herpes- snot-like watery discharge, accompanied by the formation of painful blisters on the surface of the external genital organs;
Chlamydia - transparent or white discharge in the form of snot in large quantities with accompanying symptoms of the disease;
Ureaplasmosis;
Trichomoniasis - profuse mucous discharge in the form of snot of a foamy nature, colored yellow or green.

A man should also be attentive to his health, and if he began to notice changes in his secret, then this should be a cause for concern.

Symptoms and treatment for snot-like discharge

A woman should immediately seek medical help if she has a large amount of snot-like discharge from the genital tract (more than 1 teaspoon per day), accompanied by the following clinical symptoms:

Itching and redness of the external genitalia;
Pain when emptying the bladder;
Cutting sensations in the perineum;
Pain in the lower abdomen and lower back;
Pain and discomfort after and during sexual contact;
Increase in body temperature;
Menstrual disorders.

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Treatment is selected by a gynecologist or venereologist on an individual basis for the patient, depending on the diagnosis and the causative agent of the infection. Most often, these are broad-spectrum antibiotics that are effective against gram-positive and gram-negative flora.

If a fungal infection is detected, the patient is prescribed antifungal drugs and general tonic, with genital herpes - antiviral drugs based on Acyclovir.

In case of sexually transmitted diseases, both sexual partners must undergo treatment without having sex during the period of therapy, otherwise the causative agent of the infection will be transmitted to each other.

Abundant vaginal discharge in a woman may appear during menopause or in the pre-menopausal period. The increase in secretions is caused by a restructuring of the hormonal background, however, in order to exclude infectious and inflammatory diseases, it is better for the patient to contact a gynecologist.

It has already been mentioned above that the type of excretion may indicate an infection introduced into the body. Some bacteria can get on the organs due to non-compliance with basic hygiene rules, others through sexual contact.

But the result will always be the same - colored discharge (depending on the pathogen) and an unpleasant smell. This situation causes not only physical, but also moral discomfort.

Not to mention the fact that it is by no means possible to let the problem take its course here.

There are a number of infections that provoke discharge in the form of mucus. The most common are:

urogenital trichomoniasis;
bacterial vaginosis;
thrush.

In each case, the doctor selects an individual treatment, depending on the stage of the disease and what its manifestations are at the moment.

Urogenital trichomoniasis is an inflammatory disease that affects the genital tract. It occurs not only in women, but also in men.

Transmitted sexually. The first manifestation of trichomoniasis is reddening of the mucous surface of the vagina and itching, after which an unpleasant smelling discharge begins.

However, they have a foamy texture. If this disease becomes chronic, the excretion will be thicker, and its color varies from white to yellow.

Treatment of such an infection begins only after passing all the tests. Usually drugs such as Tinidazole, Nimorazole, Ornidazole and Metronidazole are used here.

It is very important that the patient does not self-medicate, as she will not be able to choose an effective drug on her own. It is worth knowing that medication can be stopped only when the doctor says.

The fact is that mucous secretions pass very quickly as soon as a woman begins to take medication. But this does not mean that the infection is so quickly and easily disposed of.

Bacterial vaginosis is a disease that occurs quite often. It develops against the background of bacteria getting on the mucous surfaces of the female organs.

The active development of microorganisms leads to the appearance of mucous discharge of a cloudy light color that smells unpleasant (of fish). To get rid of such an ailment, a woman is prescribed local therapy - suppositories (Clindamycin), gel (Metronidazole).

If the situation is more difficult, then the gynecologist can also prescribe systemic drugs - Ornisid Forte, Clindamycin, Metronidazole and Trichopolum. The dose and duration of treatment in each case is calculated individually.

Whatever the discharge, the slightest deviation from the norm indicates a violation or disease. Depending on which group of pathologies the identified violation belongs to, various methods of treatment are used. Allocate among those medical, physiotherapeutic and operational.

Hormonal drugs are used for disorders caused by hormonal imbalance.

Physiotherapy

With pathological disorders, inflammation, physiotherapy is successfully used. Basically, it is prescribed in combination with medicines.

With an increase in abundant discharge of white mucus from the vagina, it is necessary to visit a doctor who will conduct an appropriate examination and make a final diagnosis.

It is not recommended to start self-treatment in such cases, since this can lead to a deterioration in the condition of the female body and the development of various complications. Only a specialist is able to determine the intensity of the inflammatory process and the reasons for its development.

Typically, treatment for sexually transmitted infections may include the following procedures:

Performing douching of the genitals with the use of special drugs or herbal infusions.
Conducting special baths with the addition of chamomile tincture.
Taking medications, the action of which is aimed at the destruction of pathogenic microorganisms.
Use of vaginal suppositories.

With a timely visit to the doctor and the appointment of appropriate treatment, inflammation in the genital organs will be eliminated in a short period of time.

After a certain therapy, there is a decrease in the volume of secreted white mucus and the elimination of discomfort in the genital area.

More information about vaginal discharge can be found in the video.

Moderate discharge of white mucus from the vagina is a normal physiological process. However, its significant increase is a signal of a disease in the body.

It is important to be attentive to the manifestations of the female body and, at the first signs of pathology, seek help from specialists.

Observance of elementary rules of personal hygiene will help to avoid the entry of microorganisms into the genitals. In addition, a mandatory event for every woman should be a visit to the gynecologist at least once a year.

This will identify the pathology at an early stage of its development and, if necessary, prescribe a course of therapy.

Treatment and prevention of discharge

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.

Mucous discharge from the vagina, if they are of a normal nature, is a natural phenomenon. Absolutely all women of reproductive age notice them. However, discharge is often a signal to the body that a failure has occurred and medical attention is required. Such signals can be a change in color, the appearance of a smell, the occurrence of unpleasant sensations in the genital area (especially during urination and sexual intercourse). If the discharge from the vagina has changed, do not put off going to the gynecologist and consultation. And don't be shy! This is especially true for teenage girls. The doctor will not think anything bad about you.

How is normal

If the discharge from the vagina is mucous transparent and is not accompanied by unpleasant sensations, does not cause discomfort, then there can be no cause for concern. A healthy woman has vaginal discharge without an unpleasant repulsive odor, it is not accompanied by itching and does not irritate the skin and mucous membrane of the genital organs. In terms of quantity, there are very few of them. A healthy woman has a normal body temperature and nothing causes concern. In fact, if vaginal discharge is normal, then the fair sex does not even notice their existence.

Discharge from the female genital organs resembles a viscous transparent mucus. It is secreted by the glands of the cervix. With the help of these secretions, the genital tract is cleansed. In addition, it is these secretions that protect sensitive genital organs (internal and external) from infection, bacteria - pathogens. It should be noted that the amount of discharge has a relationship with menstruation, more precisely with the time interval between menstruation, the so-called menstrual cycle. It consists of three phases. And during the second phase, ovulation, the discharge acquires a jelly-like structure.

More abundant mucous discharge from the vagina is observed at the time of sexual arousal and in anticipation of intimate intercourse. Thus, nature made sure that sexual intercourse in women caused pleasure, and accordingly, the human race did not die out. Also, the total amount of discharge may change after a change in climatic conditions, when taking certain hormonal drugs and the appearance of a new sexual partner.

And one more important fact: mucous discharge during pregnancy changes significantly. There are much more of them, they are whitish and differ from the usual ones in viscosity. Especially a lot of vaginal discharge is observed in the first weeks after conception, as well as immediately before childbirth (when the mucous plug leaves).

Alarms

If the discharge is accompanied by blood, then, with the exception of the onset of menstruation, a disease can be assumed. Bloody mucous and fetid discharge may indicate diseases of the uterus, ectopic pregnancy, erosions and cysts. If the smell is not felt, then the meager streaks of blood in the vaginal mucus can tell the woman about the onset of pregnancy. But even slight bleeding in a pregnant woman in the early stages is a signal that a miscarriage may occur. If a woman takes an oral contraceptive, then minor spotting during the first months is quite normal. The body gets used to the action of the pills.

It should be remembered that any bleeding, with the exception of menstrual bleeding, is a reason for consulting a gynecologist. Uterine bleeding is dangerous not only for health, they threaten the life of a woman.

White and colored

Also, mucous discharge from the vagina may acquire a white, yellowish or gray color. And most likely, the reason for this is a gynecological disease. Especially if you feel a sharp unpleasant odor and notice pain, pain when urinating and itching. Yes, it is quite possible that you received a gift from Venus, the goddess of love. What to do? Urgently to the doctor. Some diseases develop very quickly and are difficult to treat when they are neglected. Many sexually transmitted diseases lead to infertility and the inability of a woman to give birth to a healthy child.

If you notice that the white mucous discharge from the vagina has a cottage cheese consistency, most likely it is thrush or a pathogenic bacterium has settled inside you. In this case, treatment is also required (and it is possible that not only the patient, but also her partner).

Let's summarize. Vaginal discharge in a healthy woman is a physiological phenomenon. However, at the slightest change, you should immediately consult a doctor. And the sooner, the more chances for recovery, unless, of course, the cause is in the disease.

Each representative of the fair sex needs to carefully monitor the health of their reproductive system. Various secretions from the genitals can sometimes indicate the development of a pathological process in the body. However, clear vaginal discharge in women who have reached the reproductive period is most often a variant of the norm. It is important to understand the causes of discharge and to distinguish physiological phenomena from the development of pathology. You should seek medical help if you are concerned not only with discharge, but also with discomfort during sex, itching or burning in the intimate area.

Vaginal discharge occurs to varying degrees during the entire menstrual cycle. After the end of menstrual bleeding, a woman practically does not notice any discharge, and before ovulation, transparent mucous discharge from the vagina appears. This is a physiological process, which is explained by the liquefaction of cervical mucus. Before ovulation, the mucus in the cervical canal has a dense, viscous consistency and forms the so-called mucous plug. Its main function is to protect the internal genital organs of a woman from the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms and the development of infection. It should also be noted that during this period, the sperm can also hardly pass through this barrier.

Therefore, if you notice the appearance of abundant secretions of a mucous consistency and odorless, then this is a characteristic sign of the onset of ovulation. Immediately during ovulation, the mucus becomes more watery and clear. However, when planning a pregnancy, you should not pay attention and focus solely on the amount and nature of vaginal discharge. There are more accurate ways to determine ovulation, for example,. Sometimes during ovulation, minor spotting occurs.

This is not considered a pathology, but if you have never noticed this phenomenon before or the discharge is accompanied by pain, you should immediately consult a gynecologist.

After ovulation, abundant transparent discharge from the vagina is replaced by thicker ones, their number decreases. Just before the onset of menstrual bleeding, slight clear discharge is noted.

The appearance of discharge before intercourse

Another type of natural secretions of the female body is the vaginal fluid. This substance is also called natural vaginal lubrication, since its amount increases significantly during sexual arousal and during intercourse. In a healthy woman, a vaginal fluid of a mucous consistency is secreted, transparent, without a pungent odor. It consists of:

Mucus produced by special glands;
A small amount of the epithelium of the vagina and cervix;
Leukocytes;
Microorganisms that make up the normal microflora of the vagina;

Vaginal lubrication performs two important functions in a woman's body. Firstly, due to the presence of lubrication in the vagina, a certain acid-base balance is maintained, which prevents the penetration and reproduction of pathogenic pathogens in the mucous membrane. And secondly, vaginal lubrication provides a comfortable environment for sexual intercourse. This natural lubricant facilitates the insertion of a man's penis into the vagina and the implementation of active frictions.

A small amount of lubricant is produced constantly, but its amount increases dramatically during sexual arousal. This is due to increased blood flow to the genitals and the acceleration of metabolic processes in the cells that produce lubricant. Insufficient arousal before sexual intercourse can lead to soreness and trauma to the walls of the vagina. There is also such a pathological condition as vaginal dryness syndrome. It is widespread among premenopausal women. The production of natural vaginal lubrication is impaired due to insufficient secretion of the main female sex hormones or due to improperly selected oral contraceptives. Therefore, it is very important to devote enough time for foreplay before sex and use special lubricants.

Vaginal discharge during pregnancy

It is especially important to monitor the amount and consistency of vaginal discharge during the period of bearing a child. The discharge of clear mucus from the vagina occurs during the first few months of pregnancy. This is due to a significant hormonal restructuring of the body of the expectant mother, a change in the balance of female sex hormones leads to an increase in the secretion of natural vaginal lubrication.

From the 3rd month of pregnancy, the discharge becomes whitish, they are also called whites. If a woman does not have urogenital infections, then the discharge is odorless and does not bring any discomfort. Throughout the entire period of pregnancy, carefully monitor the amount, color and consistency of vaginal discharge. Any changes must be reported to the gynecologist, as they may indicate the development of a pathological process in the body.

When to Worry

Knowing about the peculiarities of the course of the menstrual cycle and the secretions characteristic of its different periods, it is necessary to focus primarily on your well-being. Signs of diseases of the female genital area can be:

Spotting: If, in addition to menstrual bleeding, a woman notices the appearance of discharge with blood on other days of the cycle, then this is a serious cause for concern. Blood impurities can appear with erosion of the cervix, neoplasms of the cervix, as well as with trauma to the walls of the vagina. Sometimes slight spotting is a sign of pregnancy and appears during the implantation of the embryo into the uterine wall. Therefore, if a woman recently had unprotected sexual contact, then it is advisable to take a pregnancy test;
A whitish-gray discharge that has a sharp, unpleasant smell of rotten fish is a symptom of advanced bacterial vaginosis. This disease may not be associated with a sexual infection and appears as a result of a violation of the woman's immune system;
Allocations of a curdled consistency with a sour smell are found in genital candidiasis. Also, women suffering from thrush complain of severe itching, burning and soreness of the affected areas;
Greenish discharge from the vagina is characteristic of infection with gonococcus. Often with gonorrhea in women, the urethra is also affected and dysuric disorders appear;

The reasons for an urgent visit to the gynecologist should also be pain during sexual intercourse, menstrual irregularities or a sharp change in the amount, consistency and color of vaginal discharge, accompanied by a deterioration in well-being.

Hygienic care of the genitals

Many women experience discomfort and embarrassment when they notice the appearance of physiological discharge from the vagina. During the period of the most abundant discharge, daily sanitary pads can be used. However, it should be remembered that it is necessary to change them regularly (at least every 3 hours). It is advisable not to use scented sanitary pads as they can irritate the sensitive skin of the vulva.

In the first phase of the menstrual cycle, when there is the greatest amount of discharge, it is important to properly hygienic care for the intimate area. By themselves, the secretions do not irritate the skin and mucous membranes, but when accumulated, they create good conditions for the reproduction of pathogenic bacteria. It is necessary to wash the genitals 1 time per day b, it is desirable to use special means for intimate hygiene, which maintain the optimal acid-base balance of the skin of the female genital organs.

Transparent discharge without an unpleasant odor is a physiological phenomenon in the female body that does not require special medical intervention. It is enough to undergo a preventive examination by a gynecologist every six months and avoid unprotected sexual intercourse.

Allocations in a woman are the norm, if they do not cause her discomfort, there are no deviations in the nature of the menstrual cycle. Any change in color, volume, smell of secretions is perceived as a sign of the disease. But in some cases this is not a pathology. Therefore, it is important to know when to immediately go to the doctor, and when you can take the changes calmly. If transparent, snot-like discharge appears, it is necessary to pay attention not only to their color, but also to the smell and texture, in case of doubt, immediately consult a doctor.

Content:

What discharge is the norm

Physiological vaginal discharge plays an important role in a woman's body. They moisturize the vagina, protecting its surface from damage during intercourse. An important function of whites is to maintain a normal bacterial environment in the vagina and the acidity necessary to prevent the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the uterus.

Whites consist of mucus produced by the glands of the cervix and the vestibule of the vagina, and it also contains fluids that seep through the walls of this organ from the blood and lymphatic vessels. Normal mucus resembles snot in consistency. Its density and transparency depend on the content of proteins and mucins (proteins whose molecules contain polysaccharide chains) in it.

Normal discharge, resembling snot, should have the following indicators:

They should be transparent, having a slightly white or beige tint.
They should not have an unpleasant odor. A slightly acidic aroma may be present due to the presence of beneficial lactobacilli in the vaginal microflora that prevent the propagation of infection.
Mucus should not foam, contain lumps or blood impurities.

In addition, leucorrhoea should not be too plentiful, causing irritation of the vulva and perineum, itching and burning in the vagina.

When the appearance of mucous whites is considered the norm

In women of reproductive age, the density of mucus changes during the menstrual cycle. This is caused by fluctuations in the ratio of the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. Immediately after menstruation, the density is maximum, a plug of mucus forms in the neck so that sperm cannot enter the uterus, the mucous membrane is restored in it. Then, in the first phase of the cycle, the mucus gradually liquefies, by the time of ovulation it becomes liquid and viscous, resembling snot. It is at this moment (in the middle of the cycle, when ovulation occurs) that the maximum opportunity for the meeting of a mature egg with spermatozoa and fertilization appears. Then the mucus thickens again.

In front of the entrance to the vagina are the so-called Bartholin glands, which produce mucus to eliminate "dry vagina". At the moment of sexual intimacy, the production of lubrication increases sharply, the woman has abundant transparent, stretching like snot, leucorrhoea.

Sometimes mucus odorless discharge may appear regardless of the phase of the cycle as an allergic reaction to any food or medication. The sensitive reproductive system in women can react with the appearance of such whites to a change in the environment, climate.

Note: Sometimes in normal mucous secretions there are slight impurities of blood, which quickly disappear. They appear at the time of ovulation (rupture of the follicle), as well as at the time of the introduction of a fertilized egg into the uterine mucosa (endometrium. This is the so-called implantation bleeding. Bloody leucorrhoea can be normal in the first months after starting taking birth control pills or installing a spiral.

Discharge during pregnancy

The formation of mucous whites is also possible during pregnancy, when a sharp change in hormonal levels occurs in the body. If abundant white mucus does not cause discomfort in a woman and does not contain blood, then its formation is considered the norm. In the second trimester, the density of whiter increases, they become viscous.

The appearance of blood impurities means that for some reason there is a threat of miscarriage or premature birth begins. Blood may appear during an ectopic pregnancy.

Discharge after childbirth

After childbirth, the discharge gradually turns from abundant bloody mucus, reminiscent of menstruation, into trailing, colorless, odorless snot. If a woman is breastfeeding, then she has scanty, thick, clear, yellowish discharge. After the restoration of menstruation, the discharge becomes normal.

Discharge during menopause

During this period, the hormonal background is restructured due to the cessation of the normal functioning of the ovaries. Normal mucous leucorrhoea becomes scanty. Dryness of the vagina, thinning of the mucous membrane often leads to the occurrence of inflammatory and infectious processes in the genitals. At the same time, pathological discharges appear, which disappear after appropriate treatment.

The danger is, as a rule, smearing mucous whites with blood. At this age, bleeding is most often a symptom of cancer.

Video: Normal and pathological vaginal discharge

Causes of the appearance of pathological leucorrhoea, resembling snot

Signs of pathology are:

the presence of mucus in a bright yellow, green, brown or grayish-white color;
the appearance in transparent secretions of a sharp smell of rot, sour milk or rotten fish;
the presence of streaks or blood clots in them for a long time;
foamy or curdled consistency of mucus;
the formation of too much mucus, similar to watery snot.

The cause of the pathology can be diseases of the genital organs caused by the penetration of infection, the occurrence of inflammatory processes, hormonal disorders in the body.

Discharge with blood

The appearance of bloody leucorrhoea indicates either injury to the mucous membranes of the vagina or vulva, or the formation of tumors in the genital organs, areas of inflammation with vascular damage.

Diseases of the cervix(erosion, dysplasia, leukoplakia). All of them are associated with damage to the mucous membranes, the appearance of ulcers, cracks, and areas of keratinization on the surface of the neck. They begin to bleed when walking, changing the position of the body. A symptom of pathologies is often the appearance of pain and bleeding during intercourse. The cause of such diseases is hormonal disorders, damage to the tissues of the cervix during childbirth, abortion, gynecological operations, rough sexual intercourse.

Myoma of the uterus. This is a benign tumor inside or on the outside of the uterus. The pathological development of tissues and blood vessels leads to the constant appearance of blood in the mucous whites, which are not related to menstruation and are not associated with the processes of the cycle.

endometriosis- abnormal development of the endometrium, pathological growth of the vascular network, swelling of the mucous membrane, throwing its particles into the ovaries, peritoneum and other organs. With this disease, blood clots and particles of damaged endometrium can be seen in the mucous secretions. Due to internal bleeding, they are usually colored brown. They can be both plentiful and meager (smearing).

polyps the endometrium or cervix are thin-stalked formations that are easily damaged and bleed.

Malignant tumors uterus or ovaries. Blood streaks and lumps appear due to tissue destruction.

Comment: With the appearance of benign or malignant neoplasms in the uterus, clear mucous discharge with blood impurities can turn into heavy intermenstrual uterine bleeding.

Such diseases usually appear when hormonal changes occur in the body associated with age, changes in the physiological state, and the use of hormonal drugs.

Mucous leucorrhoea with unusual features

The smell and color of discharge, similar to snot, changes when inflammatory processes occur in the body after surgery, as a result of a decrease in immunity, hypothermia, and a violation of the vaginal microflora due to antibiotics. The peculiarity of pathological secretions is that they appear without any connection with the processes of the cycle, and continue after menstruation, when the mucus should be the thickest and produced in an insignificant volume.

Vulvovaginitis, cervicitis, endometritis, salpingo-oophoritis- all these are inflammatory diseases of the internal and external genital organs, the manifestation of which is the presence of abundant fetid mucous secretions of yellow or green color.

Thrush- a fungal infection of the vagina, which has vivid symptoms, including a change in the nature of the discharge, the appearance of a milky white color, consistency and smell of cottage cheese.

Venereal diseases. With these diseases, the nature of the secretions also changes in a woman: thick, viscous mucus, resembling snot, turns into an abundant foaming liquid gray mass in chlamydia, heterogeneous, foul-smelling gray mucus with a yellow-green tint in gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, mycoplasmosis.

Bacterial vaginosis- violation of the composition of the microflora in the vagina. Snot-like, fish-smelling leucorrhoea appears.

If any signs of pathology appear in the discharge, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist. An examination will be carried out to determine the cause, and adequate treatment will be prescribed.