Advanced Womens Health Center
8501 Brimhall Road #300
Bakersfield CA, 93312
Suites C and D (West side)
8501 Brimhall Road #300
Bakersfield CA, 93312
Suites C and D (West side)
Did you know that vaginal discharge is one of the most common reasons women of all ages visit their gynecologist? Many women see their doctor for vaginitis symptoms. Vaginitis is simply a medical term to describe infections or inflammation of your vagina. A vagina produces discharge, or a clear substance that can be odorless or smell strong.
During menstruation, the amount and consistency of a woman’s discharge changes. Furthermore, there is often more discharge during ovulation, breastfeeding, stress, and sexual arousal.
How do you know what’s normal discharge and what’s abnormal discharge? Vaginal discharge that has a strong, unpleasant odor or uncomfortably produces itching or burning is usually considered abnormal.
However, it’s good to know that the vagina self-cleans with its own secretions, and a healthy vagina will consistently produce clear or white discharge.
If your discharge has a very strong, unpleasant odor, you should contact your doctor. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) happens with a sufficient change in bacteria in your vagina, specifically, when normal, vaginal bacteria called lactobacillus decreases. BV, however, is not an STD and is easily treatable with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. If your discharge continues to smell unpleasant and worsens during intercourse or while you are on your period, you should call your gynecologist.
If you are suffering from itchiness, you should call your doctor. Yeast infections usually cause terrible irritation, burning, and itchiness. However, yeast is not an STD and is also easily treatable with antifungal medicines recommended by your doctor.
If you feel a new pain in your stomach, or if you experience pain during sex, you should call your doctor. Excess vaginal discharge that is coupled with pain could be a sign of an STD like chlamydia or gonorrhea. Do not hesitate to contact your doctor to get treated and tested.
Avoid Using Perfumed Sprays or Soaps On Your Vagina. Using soapy water from your shower on your genitals and drying efficiently with a dry, clean towel is sufficient. However, if you are experiencing infection-like symptoms, try wearing loose clothing that allows the area to breathe.
Also, try not to douche because that might remove healthy, vaginal bacteria that protects you against infections. The key to remember is that some consistent vaginal discharge is not only healthy, but normal too. But if you are experiencing an unusual amount of discharge, irritation or pain, call your gynecologist right away!
