Vaginal Discharge Colours | Is My Discharge Normal:Thrush, Bacterial Vaginosis, STI, Yeast Infection

Dr Simi Adedeji2 minutes read

Vaginal discharge varies based on menstrual cycle, caused by factors like ovulation, pregnancy, arousal; different colors signal various conditions, needing self-care or medical attention. To prevent abnormal discharge, practice good personal hygiene, wear cotton underwear, and seek medical help for symptoms like unusual discharge, bleeding between periods, or pain.

Insights

  • Vaginal discharge varies in color, consistency, and smell based on menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or infections like trichomoniasis and gonorrhea, requiring different treatments and medical attention.
  • Practicing good personal hygiene, avoiding certain products, wiping correctly after using the toilet, and using condoms during sex can help prevent abnormal vaginal discharge and associated infections, while seeking medical help for abnormal symptoms is crucial for timely treatment.

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Recent questions

  • What causes yellow-green vaginal discharge?

    Yellow-green discharge may signal an STI like trichomoniasis caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, treatable with antibiotics for both partners.

  • What does gray vaginal discharge indicate?

    Gray discharge may suggest bacterial vaginosis, not an STI but associated with changes in vaginal pH, treatable with antibiotics.

  • Is white vaginal discharge normal?

    Clear discharge is normal, varying in consistency and amount based on menstrual cycle, ovulation, arousal, or breastfeeding, usually requiring no treatment.

  • What causes red or pink vaginal discharge?

    Red or pink discharge around periods is normal, while post-sex bleeding may occur due to vaginal friction.

  • How can abnormal vaginal discharge be prevented?

    To reduce abnormal discharge risk, practice good personal hygiene, avoid douches, perfumed soaps, bubble baths, vaginal deodorants, and feminine wipes.

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Summary

00:00

Understanding Vaginal Discharge: Colors and Causes

  • Vaginal discharge is common, more frequent after puberty, varying in amount, consistency, color, and smell based on menstrual cycle, pregnancy, ovulation, or arousal.
  • Different colors of vaginal discharge indicate various conditions, prompting the need for self-care or medical attention.
  • Yellow-green discharge may signal an STI like trichomoniasis caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, treatable with antibiotics for both partners.
  • Gonorrhea can also cause yellow discharge, often asymptomatic in women, necessitating medical evaluation.
  • Red or pink discharge around periods is normal, while post-sex bleeding may occur due to vaginal friction.
  • Spotting between periods could indicate pregnancy, implantation bleeding, or early miscarriage, requiring a pregnancy test or urgent medical consultation.
  • Creamy or white discharge resembling cottage cheese may indicate thrush, a yeast infection treatable with antifungal medications.
  • Gray discharge may suggest bacterial vaginosis, not an STI but associated with changes in vaginal pH, treatable with antibiotics.
  • Clear discharge is normal, varying in consistency and amount based on menstrual cycle, ovulation, arousal, or breastfeeding, usually requiring no treatment.
  • To reduce abnormal discharge risk, practice good personal hygiene, avoid douches, perfumed soaps, bubble baths, vaginal deodorants, and feminine wipes.

14:05

Prevent Vaginal Infections: Tips for Women

  • After using the toilet, wipe from front to back to avoid transferring bacteria from the anus to the vagina, which can lead to abnormal vaginal discharge. Practice safe sex by using condoms in addition to other contraceptive methods to prevent STIs like trichomonas vaginalis.
  • Wear cotton underwear to prevent sweating and moisture buildup that can encourage bacterial or yeast growth, leading to conditions like thrush. Seek medical attention if experiencing abnormal symptoms like bleeding between periods, blood-stained discharge after menopause, unusual vaginal discharge, or discharge accompanied by fever, cramps, or lower abdominal pain.
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