VAGINAL DISCHARGE; The Normal And The Abnormal. (Part 1)

Knowing The Difference Between Normal Discharge And Infections.

The Healthy Vagina - 

The vagina serves as a passageway between the outside of the body and the inner reproductive organs. The pH balance of the vagina is acidic, which discourages infections from occurring. This acidic environment is created by normally-occurring bacteria. A healthy vagina produces secretions to cleanse and regulate itself, similar to how saliva cleanses and regulates the environment of the mouth. These vaginal secretions are normal vaginal discharge. Any interference with the delicate balance of vaginal secretions sets up an environment conducive to infection.

                              

Normal Vaginal Discharge –

All women have some vaginal discharge. Normal discharge may appear clear, cloudy white, and/or yellowish when dry on clothing. It may also contain white flecks and at times may be thin and stringy. Changes in normal discharge can occur for many reasons, including menstrual cycle, emotional stressors, nutritional status, pregnancy, usage of medications - including birth control pills, and sexual arousal.

Effects of the Menstrual Cycle - The menstrual cycle affects the vaginal environment. You may notice increased wetness and clear discharge around mid-cycle. The pH balance of the vagina fluctuates during the cycle and is the least acidic on the days just prior to and during menstruation. Infections, therefore, are most common at this time.

Signs of Abnormal Discharge –

Any changes in color or amount of discharge may be a sign of a vaginal infection. Vaginal infections are very common; most women will experience some form of a vaginal infection in their lifetime. If you experience any of the symptoms below, this may be a sign of vaginal infection:

·         Discharge accompanied by itching, rash or soreness.
·         Persistent, increased discharge.
·         Burning on skin during urination.
·         White, clumpy discharge (somewhat like cottage cheese).
·         Grey/white or yellow/green discharge with a foul odor.

Outlined Below Is Basic Information On Three Common Vaginal Infections

Bacterial Vaginosis –

The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is unknown. Similar to a yeast infection, there is an overgrowth of bacteria, and the delicate balance of the vaginal environment is upset when these bacteria occur in increased amounts. Recurrence of bacterial vaginosis is common and bacterial vaginosis can coexist with other vaginal infections. Women that have multiple partners or receive oral intercourse are at an increased risk of acquiring bacterial vaginosis.

Signs and Symptoms:

• ·         Increased amount of discharge.
• ·         Grey/white, thin, watery discharge.
• ·         Foul/fishy odor with discharge.
• ·         Increased odor to discharge immediately after intercourse.
• ·         Nearly half of the women with bacterial vaginosis don't display any symptoms.

Treatment:

There is no over-the-counter treatment available. There are two treatment options with metronidazole (Flagyl) - an oral antibiotic or a topical antibiotic cream. Metronidazole can cause nausea and darkening of urine. Alcohol consumption should be avoided while on this medication, and for 48 hours after treatment, due to possible alcohol intolerance, which can result in nausea and vomiting. If you are using the vaginal antibiotic preparation, it must be used daily.

(To be Continued)

**Is this post helpful to you? Kindly drop your comment and don't forget 'Sharing is Caring'. Thanks.

    You might also like:

   -   Prevent High Cholesterol by Avoiding 'Midnight Snacking'.

   -   Did You Know These Health Benefits of Moringa?

   -   Vital Foods For Better Health Of Our Eyes.

   -    Bad Breath Can Disturb Your Social Life; Know The Prevention and Cure

   -   How Stress Affects Our Body System.

   -   Read! Unsuspected Causes of Obesity.

   -   Dealing With Sore Muscles and Joint Pain.

   -   6 Ways To Boost Your Body Metabolism.

We update this blog daily with several exciting post posts on Health and Wellness also Foods and Nutrition, Kindly subscribe to our Daily Newsletter below to get the Free Updates.