Vaginal discharge is a common concern for many women, but what happens when the discharge suddenly differs in quantity or appearance? This can be the result of other underlying concerns, which might not be known. With this blog, let's delve into what vaginal discharge really is, its causes and how you can treat this condition.
What is Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a natural fluid produced by the cervix and vaginal glands. It plays an essential role in keeping the vaginal area clean, healthy and balanced. It is made up of mucus, dead cells and bacteria that naturally shed out from the body.
The discharge serves a variety of purposes, such as:
- Maintaining cleanliness: It helps flush out bacteria and old cells from the vagina, preventing infections.
- pH balance: The vagina has a slightly acidic pH level that’s important for keeping harmful bacteria at bay.
- Lubrication: It ensures the vaginal walls stay moist, reducing friction and discomfort.
- Fertility: During ovulation, the discharge changes in consistency, becoming more slippery and stretchy, which helps sperm travel to the egg.
Usually, vaginal discharge can be clear, white, or slightly yellow and up to a teaspoon of discharge per day is generally considered normal. But when there’s a noticeable change in the amount, colour, or smell, you may begin to wonder if something’s wrong. It could be a sign of an infection or associated with the menstrual cycle, or is it something else!
Causes of Increased Vaginal Discharge
Increased vaginal discharge can be due to a variety of reasons. It’s essential to understand that not all changes in discharge should be a cause for alarm. Here are some common causes of sudden or increased vaginal discharge:
1. Ovulation
Around the middle of your menstrual cycle, estrogen levels peak, which can increase the amount of vaginal discharge. This discharge tends to be clear, slippery and stretchy, which makes it easier for sperm to travel and increases the chances of pregnancy.
2. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, rise. This causes an increase in vaginal discharge, which typically appears as a milky white fluid. It’s a natural mechanism that helps protect the vagina from infections and maintains a healthy environment for the baby.
3. Sexual Arousal
When you’re sexually aroused, your Bartholin’s glands (located near the vaginal opening) produce a clear, watery fluid. Additionally, the cervix secretes mucus, which leads to an increase in vaginal discharge, acting as a natural lubricant during sexual activity.
4. Birth Control
Hormonal birth control methods, including oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices (IUDs), can lead to changes in vaginal discharge. In the early months of using birth control, you may notice an increase in discharge as your body adjusts to fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels.
5. Vaginal Yeast Infection
A yeast infection, typically caused by the overgrowth of Candida albicans, leads to thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge. This can be accompanied by itching, irritation and redness. Yeast infections are more likely after antibiotic use, pregnancy or stress.
6. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
This occurs when there is an imbalance in the natural bacteria of the vagina, where harmful bacteria outweigh the good bacteria. BV can cause a thin, greyish-white discharge with a strong fishy odour and mild itching. It is one of the most common causes of abnormal discharge and requires medical treatment.
7. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis often result in unusual vaginal discharge. Symptoms include yellow or green discharge with a strong, unpleasant odour. STIs usually require prescription antibiotics to treat.
8. Menopause
As women approach menopause, hormonal fluctuations often cause changes in vaginal discharge. For some women, this can lead to an increase in watery discharge, while others experience dryness. It’s crucial to understand these changes and seek appropriate care from an expert.
When Should You Be Concerned About Vaginal Discharge?
Increased discharge is often normal and can result from hormonal changes, pregnancy or sexual activity. However, you should consult the expert if you notice any of the following signs:
- Unusual colour: Yellow, green or grey discharge is often a sign of infection.
- Strong, foul odour: A fishy smell can indicate bacterial vaginosis or an STI.
- Cottage cheese-like discharge: This often signals a yeast infection, especially when accompanied by itching.
- Pain or discomfort: If discharge is accompanied by pain, burning, or discomfort, it could be a sign of an infection.
Treatment for Vaginal Discharge
The treatment for vaginal discharge depends entirely on the cause. If the discharge is due to an infection or a health condition, it’s important to consult with an expert. Here are some potential treatments for different causes of increased vaginal discharge:
1. Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are typically treated with antifungal medications, either oral or topical. Over-the-counter treatments like miconazole or clotrimazole may help, but if symptoms persist, a doctor may prescribe a stronger antifungal.
2. Bacterial Vaginosis
For BV, antibiotics are commonly prescribed. It’s crucial not to use douches, as they can worsen the imbalance of vaginal flora.
3. Sexually Transmitted Infections
STIs like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are treated with antibiotics, either in pill form or as an injection. If you suspect an STI, get tested and follow your doctor’s instructions.
4. Hormonal Changes
If your discharge is linked to hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy or menopause, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, hormone therapy or other treatments to balance your hormones.
Best Tips to Reduce Vaginal Discharge and Maintain Feminine Hygiene
Regardless of the cause, there are some simple ways to keep your vaginal health in check and reduce discharge:
- Practice Good Feminine Hygiene Care: Clean your intimate areas regularly with a mild, pH-balanced intimate hygiene wash. It’s essential to avoid using harsh soaps or perfumes in the genital area, as they can disrupt the natural balance.
- Wear Breathable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing that traps moisture and heat, which can promote bacterial or fungal growth.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins from your body and maintains a healthy vaginal environment.
- Use the Right Feminine Hygiene Products: Choosing the right intimate hygiene wash is key to maintaining balance. Look for a product that is specifically formulated to support vaginal health, like Healing Pharma’s Fem-O-Fresh Hygiene Cleanser.
- Avoid Douching: Douching can upset the natural flora of the vagina and lead to infections. It’s best to let the vagina clean itself naturally.
Why Choose Healing Pharma’s Fem-O-Fresh Hygiene Cleanser?
While treating vaginal discharge requires a tailored approach, you can take steps to improve your feminine hygiene care daily. Healing Pharma’s Fem-O-Fresh Hygiene Cleanser is designed to maintain a clean and infection-free intimate area. This advanced formulation not only keeps your intimate health in check but also helps balance the vaginal pH level, providing a gentle yet effective hygiene wash that is safe for everyday use.
The Fem-O-Fresh Hygiene Cleanser is ideal for preventing infections, reducing unwanted odour and maintaining overall vaginal health. By incorporating this hygiene wash into your daily routine, you’re taking a step toward better care and comfort.
Conclusion
Vaginal discharge, while sometimes appearing concerning, is a common issue to be discussed under the woman’s health. It plays a vital role in maintaining vaginal cleanliness and balancing pH levels. If you notice a sudden change in your discharge, it’s essential to pay attention to other symptoms like odour, colour and discomfort.
In the meantime, taking proactive steps with feminine hygiene care can go a long way. By using products like Healing Pharma’s Fem-O-Fresh Hygiene Cleanser, you ensure that your intimate area remains clean, fresh and infection-free—so you can focus on what matters most to you. Buy Fem-O-Fresh hygiene cleanser online from Healing Pharma Online and get it at flat 30% off!