Causes and treatment of foamy discharge in a woman. When should you see a doctor? Watery or white discharge and itching

Foamy discharge in women, the causes of which are hidden in the presence of infections in the reproductive system, is a deviation from the norm and can have serious consequences without timely treatment. The second option for the appearance of this kind of discharge is evidence of the presence of an intimate disease. The genitourinary system of a woman is a very complex mechanism, on which not only physical, but also her psychological health depends. No girl will feel attractive and confident in the presence of unpleasant discharge. The walls of the penis should normally be in a wet state, and therefore natural secretions are a necessary phenomenon.

The substance excreted from the female reproductive organ must have the following composition:

mucus, which is produced by special glands;
leukocytes;
beneficial bacteria and microorganisms.

All these substances perform a protective function, moisturizing the mucous membrane and walls of the vagina, creating a barrier to infections and viruses. Discharges that meet a number of indicators are considered healthy:

Transparency. Also, white or are not considered pathological.
No unpleasant odor.
Watery and thin texture. During ovulation, they may thicken slightly and become more slippery.
Normally, the amount of vaginal discharge should not exceed a few milligrams. The only exception is the period of sexual intercourse.

Causes of foamy discharge in women

The main prerequisite for the appearance of foamy secretions is the penetration of infections into the body, which can be of a different nature:

sexually transmitted infection from an infected partner;
diseases that are not venereal.

The second option for the penetration of bacteria into the body is less common. The following factors can provoke this phenomenon:

Weakened immunity.
Taking antibiotics that can destroy the bacteria that perform the protective functions of the vagina.
Diabetes. A decrease in the level of glycogen in the cellular structure of the female reproductive system can cause a jump in sugar levels. Such an environment is the most favorable for the spread of infection.
Taking contraceptive drugs. Pregnancy protection products increase the body's hormonal levels, thereby creating a suitable breeding ground for bacteria.
Diseases of the immune system, such as AIDS or HIV, are possible causes of infection.
Frequent douching can break the protective layer of the vaginal mucosa.
Failure of the hormonal background during pregnancy, during menopause, and also during ovulation.
Non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene.
Damage to the walls of the vagina, even minor wounds, can contribute to the penetration of infection into the body.

Such a substance is a necessary norm for the female body, but foamy discharge can be an alarm. The body thus tries to resist pathogenic bacteria. Also, this kind of intimate fluid can be a symptom of diseases such as vaginosis, trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginitis, etc.

The most dangerous frothy discharge, which has an unpleasant odor. This phenomenon is usually accompanied by the following symptoms:

sensation of itching in the intimate area;
burning of the vagina;
pain during urination and sexual intercourse;
swelling of the external genital organs;
pain in the lower abdomen, which are aching in nature.

In this case, we are talking about a sexually transmitted disease, such as vaginitis, an inflammatory process that occurs in the female reproductive system. With this ailment, the discharge can take on a color from white to purulent green. Abundant white discharge is a reason to contact a gynecologist, who, based on a series of studies and some tests, will identify the causative agent of the infection. Based on this, appropriate treatment will be prescribed, which in the vast majority of cases is effective.

Treatment of the disease

Treatment is carried out in two ways: internal and external. The doctor decides whether one of these methods will be enough or if complex therapy is needed. Internal methods of treatment include taking antibiotics, the second involves treating the genitals with antiseptic solutions (suitable only if foamy discharge is not a symptom of a sexually transmitted disease).

In addition to the main drug treatment, therapy is used to strengthen the body in general. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also be prescribed in the case when the patient has a persistent increase in body temperature. In addition to traditional medicine, folk recipes can be an addition to treatment. Douching can be done with infusions of chamomile or oak bark, which have an antiseptic effect. It should be borne in mind that this method can be used no more than once a week, so as not to dry the vaginal mucosa.

For daily use, antibacterial lotions are suitable, which are prepared on the basis of natural antiseptics, such as onion and garlic, which have an antimicrobial effect. Onion juice can be soaked in sanitary tampons and inserted into the vagina. You should be careful when using this remedy, as it can cause an allergic reaction or severe burning sensation.

But it is worth remembering that traditional medicine can only be an addition to the main treatment. Taking antibiotics is necessary to destroy the infection, herbal remedies cannot cope with this. You also need to take into account the possibility of individual intolerance to a particular component, therefore, before using a natural ingredient, it is worth testing for an allergic reaction. This is especially true when taking unfamiliar herbs.

An infusion that can be used daily as a regular tea has a good tonic effect. It consists of sage, birch leaves, chamomile flowers and St. John's wort. All components are taken in equal quantities and mixed. To prepare a glass of infusion, it will be enough to take a tablespoon of this collection.

During the treatment of foamy discharge, sexual intercourse should be completely excluded in order to prevent the risk of infection of the partner. The condom is not 100% protective against transmission. The sexual partner should also be screened for the presence of sexually transmitted diseases, and if present, be treated with antibiotics. IN otherwise he will transmit the infection again.

Preventive measures against foamy secretions

No woman can completely protect herself from the penetration of infection into the body, but preventive measures will not be superfluous. In order to minimize the risk of this unpleasant and dangerous symptom and prevent the development of a serious illness, it is necessary:

regularly visit a gynecologist (at least once a year);
observe the rules of personal hygiene;
during menstruation, do not wear a sanitary pad or tampon for longer than the time indicated in the instructions;
have protected sex or acts with one partner;
Avoid casual sex.

If you follow these simple rules, you can protect yourself as much as possible from the penetration of infections into the genitourinary system and the appearance of foamy secretions or more serious consequences.

A small conclusion

From all of the above, we can conclude that the discharge, which indicates diseases of the female genital area, as a rule, are similar to each other.

Therefore, with any sudden appearance of pathological discharge, without hesitation, you should immediately consult a doctor.

This phenomenon is very common. In most cases, this is not a cause for concern, but sometimes it is necessary to consult a doctor. But in the presence of any discomfort, pain in the vagina and abdomen, impurities of pus or blood in the discharge, immediately contact a antenatal clinic or a gynecologist. Take care of yourself and be healthy!

Normally, a woman's vagina is always moistened with a small amount of physiological secretions, consisting of mucus, epithelial cells and lactobacilli. This secret performs a protective and softening function, preventing the penetration of pathogenic bacteria into the genitourinary system and facilitating sexual intercourse. Its amount varies depending on health, stage of the menstrual cycle, hormonal status and sexual activity.

Is frothy vaginal discharge normal, or does it indicate a health problem? In our review, we will analyze the possible causes, clinical manifestations, as well as methods for diagnosing and treating this symptom.

It is generally accepted that any vaginal discharge, other than mucous, is a sign of pathology. In fact, this is only partly true: in some cases, mild, slightly frothy, odorless discharge of a transparent or white color is the result of cleansing the vagina and cervical canal from sperm. At the same time, they are observed 6-8 hours after unprotected intercourse, quickly pass and do not cause discomfort to a woman.

Possible diseases

Very often, foamy discharge in women is a sign of an infection of the external or internal genital organs. Most often, this symptom occurs with trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis, less often with candidal vaginitis - thrush.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis (trichomoniasis) is a urinary tract infection common among the fair sex. According to WHO, up to 10% of the world's population is infected with it. Annually, new cases of the disease are registered in 170 million people.

The causative agent of the infection is Trichomonas vaginalis. It is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person during unprotected sexual contact and settles on the mucous membrane of the genital tract. If the typical localization of trichomonas in men can be called the urethra, prostate gland and seminal vesicles, then in women inflammation of the urethra and vagina usually occurs.

The incubation period of the disease is 7-30 days. Typical symptoms of infection in the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity are:

frothy discharge;
itching, burning, pain in the urethra and vagina;
hyperemia of the vulva;
pain during and a few minutes after urination;
discomfort, pain during intercourse;
sometimes - pain in the lower abdomen.

There are two forms of the disease - acute and chronic. With primary infection, acute trichomoniasis develops, accompanied by vivid clinical symptoms. Discharge from the genital tract is profuse, foamy, yellow or greenish, with an unpleasant putrid odor. Often the disease is combined with other STDs (gonorrhea, chlamydia, gardnerellosis) due to common routes of infection.

If trichomoniasis was not diagnosed in time, and the patient was not provided with the necessary therapeutic measures, the disease becomes chronic. At this stage, itching, soreness and other pathological symptoms are reduced, the volume of secretions is reduced. The patient feels much better, but the pathological process in her genitourinary system continues.

Chronic trichomoniasis is dangerous not only for its latent course, which contributes to the spread of infection, but also for its high risk of complications. Most often, women develop trichomonas salpingoophoritis, which ultimately leads to irreversible infertility.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (the term gardnerellosis is also mentioned in the literature) is the second most common cause of foamy discharge. The disease is caused not by an inflammatory process in the vagina, but by a significant violation of the ratio of "useful" and "harmful" microflora of the genital organs. With this pathology, the physiological level of lactobacilli, which normally makes up to 95% of the vaginal biocenosis, is critically reduced and replaced by opportunistic microorganisms - anaerobes and gardnerella.

Risk factors for this pathology include:

transferred infections of the genitourinary organs;
uncontrolled use of antibiotics, antiseptics and other antimicrobial agents;
hormonal disorders, menstrual disorders;
background (metaplastic, dysplastic processes in the cervix);
wearing an intrauterine device;
use of oral contraceptives.

The main complaints of patients with bacterial vaginosis relate to abundant discharge of white or grayish color. They foam, often have an unpleasant fishy odor. Strengthening of pathological secretions is observed before menstruation, after sexual intercourse.

In addition, complaints are common: itching in the genital area, dysuria - various urination disorders, discomfort during intercourse (rarely).

In more than half of the percent of cases, bacterial vaginosis has an erased clinical picture. In patients who have not been fully treated, the disease often recurs and can lead to the development of complications - salpingitis, cervicitis, endometritis. It has also been proven that pathology increases the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections.

candida vaginitis

Less commonly, foamy discharge accompanies candidal vaginitis or thrush. At the same time, curdled discharge typical of this disease is observed, they are an individual reaction of the woman's body to a fungal infection. As a rule, such secretions are white and have a characteristic sour smell and are accompanied by the following symptoms: itching in the vulva and perineum, cutting pains during urination, discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Similar signs of fungal infection of the genital organs were found in most patients of the gynecologist. Mushrooms of the genus Candida are considered opportunistic microorganisms, contained in a small amount in the vagina of a healthy woman. Under the influence of various reasons, the normal ratio of "good" and "bad" microbes in the genital tract is disturbed, and symptoms of a fungal infection of the mucous membranes appear. Among the factors affecting the development of candidal vaginitis, there are:

errors in the diet associated with an excess of easily digestible carbohydrates in the diet;
diabetes;
the need for long-term antibiotics;
chronic diseases that suppress the activity of an adequate immune response;
treatment with glucocorticosteroids (Prednisolone, Dexamethasone);
pregnancy;
the presence of an intrauterine device;
wearing tight underwear made of synthetic fabric.

Note! For a long time it was believed that gardnerellosis is an exclusively female infection. However, at present, there is a sluggish picture of inflammation of the urethra when men are affected by this pathogen.

Untreated candidiasis leads to loosening and other pathological changes in the mucous membrane of the genital tract (fraught with ruptures of the perineum during childbirth), and also increases the risk of developing infections of the uterus and appendages.

Why is it important to see a doctor on time?

Any qualitative and quantitative changes (color, consistency and smell) of secretions should be a reason to contact a specialist, in this case- a gynecologist or venereologist. This is especially true for foamy ones, which are a likely manifestation of such a dangerous disease as trichomoniasis.

To confirm or refute this diagnosis, as well as to determine the exact cause of pathological foamy discharge, you can use a comprehensive examination:

Collection of complaints and anamnesis. Particular attention of the doctor should be directed to the relationship of the onset of symptoms of the disease with possible causative factors (unprotected sexual contact with a new partner, antibiotic therapy, the presence of immunodeficiency).
Gynecological examination of the external genital organs. Allows you to notice hyperemic and edematous elements on the mucous membrane, an unpleasant odor.
Inspection of the walls of the vagina and cervix in the mirrors. Abundant white foamy discharge is well visualized near the posterior fornix of the vagina.
Laboratory research methods should include:
- Microscopy of an unstained preparation (can be performed almost immediately after taking a smear) - this research method is indicative only for severe acute forms of infection;
- Microscopy of a Gram-stained smear, designed to differentiate acid-sensitive and acid-resistant bacteria, makes it possible to reliably identify the pathogen in 40-60% of cases;
- Bacteriological (cultural) research. It is based on sowing the biomaterial obtained on a nutrient medium in order to further grow colonies of pathogenic organisms, determine their type and identify sensitivity to popular antibiotics. It is used for an erased picture of an infectious disease.
- PCR is a modern molecular genetic study based on the detection of chains of the genetic material (DNA) of the pathogen in the collected foamy secretions or systemic circulation. It is highly effective, absolutely safe and does not require damaging tests.

Principles of treatment of urinary tract infections

After establishing an accurate diagnosis, the doctor proceeds to the formation of an individual treatment plan. It largely depends on the identified pathogen, the degree of damage to the external genitalia, concomitant diseases.

Metronidazole has been the drug of choice for trichomoniasis for decades. At the same time, local forms of drugs (vaginal tablets, suppositories) are ineffective, as they are unable to completely eliminate the infection. Tablets for oral administration are prescribed. The dosage and duration of treatment is calculated by the doctor individually.

With bacterial vaginosis, therapy is usually based on the appointment: Metronidazole and Clindamycin. The combination of these drugs allows you to successfully get rid of the excess of opportunistic microorganisms. The first inhibits the formation of nucleic acids in the cell that causes the infection, and the second blocks protein synthesis. In addition, the treatment regimen for bacterial vaginosis includes the appointment of:

eubiotics - lactobacilli (orally);
restorative, healing agents;
vitamins.

The basis of therapy for candidal vaginitis is antimycotics (antifungal agents). They are administered both orally and vaginally. Among the drugs of choice:

Fluconazole;
Butoconazole;
Nystatin;
Miconazole;
Clotrimazole.

Note! Topical mineral or vegetable oil based thrush treatments damage latex condoms. At the time of treatment, it is necessary to use another method of contraception or temporarily refuse sexual intercourse.

In addition, patients should follow the doctor's recommendations regarding diet (limitation of sweets, fresh pastries) and lifestyle (wearing comfortable cotton underwear, keeping your body clean). To strengthen the immune system, vitamins and herbal adaptogens are prescribed - echinacea, ginseng.

White frothy discharge with or without an odor is a reason to listen to the work of your body. Do not be shy about a delicate problem: the sooner you see a doctor, the sooner an unpleasant symptom that worries many girls will be eliminated. Modern methods of treatment of nonspecific inflammatory diseases of the vagina and STIs are effective, safe and allow to achieve good results in the shortest possible time.

What's in the article:

In the genitals of a healthy woman, secretions are constantly formed in a small amount. They are necessary in order to moisturize the vaginal mucosa and protect against infection. Normally, the discharge should be in a small amount, odorless, whitish or yellowish. Foamy discharge in women is a deviation from the norm.

Causes

The causes of foamy secretions can be various factors:

Taking antibiotics that destroy the microflora of the vagina.
Weakened immunity.
Hormone disruption.
Lack of intimate hygiene, or its improper implementation.
Pregnancy or postpartum period.
Venereal diseases. The most common cause of this type of discharge.
Taking oral contraceptives.
Disorder in the work of the endocrine system.
Inflammatory processes in the reproductive system.
Foreign objects in the vagina that are there for a long time (sanitary napkins, cotton swabs).
Neoplasms in the female genital organs.
An intrauterine device that needs to be replaced or is incorrectly placed.
Having HIV or AIDS.

White, odorless, foamy discharge in women can be caused by various causes that are not related to diseases. But if the discharge smells unpleasant, yellow or gray-green in color, an infection has got into the vagina and you need to see a doctor.

Kinds

Foamy vaginal discharge can vary greatly depending on the cause. There are such types of secretions:

Foamy discharge in women with sour milk odour.
Profuse white discharge like foam.
Thick foamy discharge, odorless.
Yellow, frothy discharge, mixed with pus and smelling of rotten fish.

Foamy discharge in diseases

Various diseases are the most common cause of foamy discharge. Consider the most common:

Trichomoniasis. Genital infection. The causative agent is Trichomonas, a single-celled anaerobic bacterium. It is transmitted mainly through sexual contact. But you can also get infected from a sick person, using towels after him. Characteristic signs of the disease: foamy discharge of a yellow or greenish tint, vaginal itching, redness of the genitals. White frothy discharge in women with trichomoniasis does not have a characteristic odor.

Bacterial vaginosis. A common disease associated with violations of the microflora of the vagina. The causes of the disease can be: uncleanliness, weakened immunity, hormonal failure, stress. Foamy discharge in this disease has a sharp unpleasant odor and has a dirty yellow color.
Candidiasis. A disease caused by the rapid growth of a fungus of the genus Candida. In another way, this disease is called thrush and this is a fairly common disease. Candida fungus is present in the microflora of the vagina in small quantities, but under favorable circumstances, it begins to multiply very quickly. Causes of Candidiasis: stress, infection from a sexual partner, hormonal failure, antibiotics. Foamy discharge in this disease has a characteristic sour smell.
Chlamydia. The disease is transmitted through sexual intercourse. Recently, more and more carriers of this disease are detected. Foamy discharge in this disease is yellow with an admixture of pus. May have an unpleasant odor.
Gonorrhea. Symptoms of gonorrhea can be itching and burning on the genitals, painful and frequent urination. Foamy discharge with gonorrhea becomes cloudy and often contains purulent impurities.
HIV or AIDS. These diseases are the cause of weak immunity. Therefore, the protective mechanisms of the body cease to perform their functions. Bacteria or viruses enter the vagina, which can cause discharge.
Cervical erosion. Erosion destroys the tissues of the cervical canal and cervix. These places are the entrance gates for various infections. An inflammatory process begins, accompanied by copious secretions.

If foamy discharge in women causes the above reasons, you should immediately start treatment.

Pregnancy as the cause of foamy discharge

During the period of gestation, a woman should be especially sensitive to her well-being.

Very often, the nature of the mucus from the vagina during this period may change. They become white, liquid and foamy. Most often, it is due to hormonal changes in the body.

But it is possible that an infection has entered the vagina, which is very dangerous for the fetus. Therefore, if you suspect an infectious disease, you need to visit a doctor and pass all the necessary tests.

Diagnostics

For the correct and adequate treatment of foamy discharge, the doctor must determine the cause of their appearance. Diagnosis consists in laboratory tests and some methods of ultrasound and endoscopy.

For laboratory research, the following materials are taken:

Blood.
Urine.
Vaginal smear for bacterial culture.
Scraping from the vagina for cytological examination.

Ultrasound is performed to examine the internal organs of the reproductive system. Ultrasound determines the presence of neoplasms, pathological processes.

Endoscopy of the uterus allows you to determine what processes occur inside the uterus, to detect the inflammatory process. Also, using the endoscopic method of research, it is possible to examine the tissues lining the uterus from the inside. If necessary, endoscopy allows you to take tissue samples for analysis. This is necessary for a more accurate diagnosis.

Treatment

After a detailed diagnostic examination, the doctor can make a diagnosis and begin treatment. A frothy, odorless discharge in women is usually not a symptom of an infection. Most often they are caused by hormonal changes or a weakened immune system. Treatment in this case is appropriate. The doctor prescribes hormonal therapy or drugs to boost immunity.

Everything is much more complicated if the tests showed the presence of an infection or an inflammatory process in the internal organs. Sexually transmitted infections are treated with antibiotics and antimicrobials. Be sure to take an analysis of the sensitivity of bacteria to antibiotics. There are types of microorganisms that, as a result of mutation, have acquired resistance to many types of antibiotics. It must be understood that during the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, sexual activity should be avoided. The partner must also undergo treatment, as he is also a carrier of the disease, and after the woman is cured, he can infect her again. Sexual intercourse during treatment is undesirable even with the use of barrier methods, as this can aggravate the course of the disease.

If foamy or purulent discharge in women is caused by pathological processes in the internal genital organs, treatment can be conservative or surgical. It all depends on the disease that causes the discharge.

Inflammatory processes of the uterus and appendages are subject to conservative treatment. Drug therapy gives a good result if the rules for taking the drugs are observed.

Surgical treatment is used to remove neoplasms in the genitals, excision of adhesions in the fallopian tubes. In modern surgery, low-traumatic methods are used for operations on the organs of the reproductive system. Laparoscopy allows, with minimal damage to the skin and internal tissues, to perform a high-quality and effective operation.

If the cause of white foamy discharge is a fungal infection of the genital organs, then antifungal therapy is prescribed. It must be remembered that the defeat of the fungus of the genital organs is only the tip of the iceberg. The main focus of the development of the disease is in the intestine. Therefore, the treatment of thrush should be comprehensive.

With long-term use of oral contraceptives, hormonal failure occurs, which can provoke abnormal vaginal discharge, including foamy. Treatment in this case consists in the abolition of the contraceptive drug. or it can be replaced with a drug with a different active ingredient.

Yellow or white foamy discharge may be formed against the background of the impact of the intrauterine device on nearby tissues. When installing a spiral, inflammation can form, which provokes unpleasant symptoms. Also, discharge can form if the period for removing the spiral has long passed. In these two cases, the intrauterine device must be removed immediately, and the woman must undergo a course of rehabilitation therapy.

If the diagnosis detects cervical erosion, it must be cured in the near future, otherwise abundant discharge and inflammatory processes will be repeated regularly.

Prevention

In most cases, the appearance of unpleasant discharge from the genitals of a woman can be avoided if you follow simple rules:

Personal hygiene is the most important condition for the health of a woman's genitals. You need to do this every day. You can use specialized gels for hygiene of the genital organs. But do not douche too often, especially with antiseptic solutions. You can wash off the microflora of the vagina, then the problems will only get worse. Underwear is changed daily. The material of linen should be made of natural fibers. During menstruation, you need to change hygiene products more often, since the blood is a great breeding ground for bacteria.
Antibiotics are only taken with a doctor's prescription. You can not prescribe such drugs to yourself. Along with antibiotics, you need to take drugs that normalize the intestinal and vaginal microflora.
A person with a weak immune system needs to be constantly supported. Immunotherapy should be carried out under the supervision of a physician.
To prevent the occurrence of sexually transmitted diseases, you need to protect yourself with barrier methods and avoid casual sexual intercourse.
In case of disorders in the production of hormones, you should consult a doctor and undergo an examination.
To prevent the development of inflammatory processes in the reproductive system, it is not necessary to catch a cold and treat foci of infection in other organs and body systems.
It is necessary to regularly undergo examination by a gynecologist.
In order not to disturb the balance of the microflora of the vagina, stress and emotional overload should be avoided.

In conclusion, we can conclude that foamy discharge of various types is a deviation from the norm. A visit to the doctor is a must, especially during pregnancy.

Vaginal discharge is normal for a healthy woman. However, if the discharge changes color, smell or texture, this is a sign of illness.

Normal discharge in women is clear or whitish, mucous, without a strong odor. This is the discharge of the cervix (cervical mucus) and the vagina.

The amount of vaginal discharge changes throughout the menstrual cycle. By the end of menstruation, the discharge becomes brown. The amount of discharge in women usually increases during pregnancy.

The discharge can be uncomfortable as it dampens the laundry. However, if the woman is healthy, there should be no other symptoms such as itching or soreness in the perineum.

When is vaginal discharge a sign of illness?

Any sudden change in discharge may be a sign of an infection:

change in color and consistency;
discharge with a strong odor;
large volume of discharge;
itching or discomfort in the genital area, pain in the pelvis or abdomen;
sudden bleeding from the vagina.

If unusual vaginal discharge appears, it is recommended to contact a gynecologist at a antenatal clinic, a territorial clinic or a private center.

intimate hygiene

One of the causes of discharge in women is improper or excessive intimate hygiene. There is no need for washing the vagina - douching. This procedure can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the genital tract, which contributes to the development of bacterial vaginosis and thrush.

Douching is a medical procedure and is performed only under strict indications, as directed by a doctor.

The abuse of perfumed soaps, shower gels or bubble baths can lead to vaginal irritation and discharge. Never use strong scented products for intimate hygiene. Mild baby soap and warm water are ideal for this. You can use special means for intimate hygiene.

Causes of pathological (not normal) discharge

Among the many reasons for abnormal vaginal discharge, the most common is infection. As a rule, this is due to a violation of the natural balance of the microflora in the vagina, as a result of improper hygiene or in connection with sexually transmitted infections.

The information below will help you determine the cause of the most common discharges. Nevertheless, it is important to visit a gynecologist in order to accurately determine the cause and receive proper treatment.

Watery or white discharge and itching

Liquid white or thick curdled discharge in women indicates the appearance of candidiasis (thrush). This fungal infection causes severe itching and soreness in the vaginal area. The discharge usually has a slight yeasty odor.

Almost every woman is faced with vaginal thrush. This infection may not be sexually related at all and is easily treated with antifungal agents.

White or gray discharge that smells like rotten fish

A white-gray discharge with a rotten fish odor that gets worse after sex is a symptom of bacterial vaginosis. This disease is associated with an imbalance of bacteria - the natural inhabitants of the genital tract - vaginal dysbacteriosis. With vaginosis, there is usually no severe itching or irritation.

Bacterial vaginosis cannot be transmitted sexually. This disease is common and is treated with antibiotics.

Bleeding and pain

If you are concerned:

pain in the lower abdomen (pelvic pain)
pain when urinating
bleeding after sex or between periods (uterine bleeding)

be sure to consult a gynecologist. In this case, the doctor will exclude various menstrual irregularities and sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Gonorrhea is often accompanied by yellow discharge, but pain and bleeding can be the main complaints.

Both infections are treated with antibiotics. These infections often spread to the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, leading to severe illness.

Discharge in women and blistering rash on the genitals

Genital herpes can cause painful rashes on the genitals in the form of small blisters on the background of reddened skin. When the blisters burst, severely painful sores form. This disease is accompanied by a change in the nature and amount of discharge from the genital tract.

Discharge in girls and postmenopausal women

For young girls who are not yet sexually active, the appearance of atypical vaginal discharge is a cause for concern. In this case, you need to contact a gynecologist. A common cause of such discharge is a streptococcal infection of the vulva and vagina.

Abundant discharge is also unusual for women after menopause (when menstruation has stopped). Possible reasons:

sexually transmitted infections;
cervical polyps - benign neoplasms of the uterus and cervix;
use of an intrauterine device.

Be sure to consult a gynecologist to rule out cervical cancer and endometrial cancer.

Green, yellow, or frothy vaginal discharge

Discharge from trichomoniasis is abundant and can also have a fishy smell. Other possible symptoms: itching and swelling in the perineum, pain when urinating.

This infection is treated with antibiotics. It is imperative to visit a gynecologist or venereologist, as trichomoniasis is often combined with other sexually transmitted infections.

Trichomoniasis

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 10% of the world's population suffer from this disease of the genitourinary system caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. This disease belongs to a sexually transmitted disease and is transmitted sexually. Trichomonas vaginalis quickly die from the influence of various environmental factors, but if sanitary and hygienic standards are violated, then there is a possibility of domestic infection.

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis

The disease can affect both men and women. But men, as a rule, endure it asymptomatically: inflammation of the urethra is accompanied by weak mucous secretions that are unable to cause discomfort. Feeling healthy and unaware of the disease, a man does not go to the doctor and, thus, is a constant source of infection for his sexual partners.

In women, trichomoniasis manifests itself as a grey-yellow or light green, frothy vaginal discharge, often accompanied by a foul-smelling, itchy, and burning sensation. If the body's resistance is reduced, then the disease can spread to the uterus and appendages. The same happens during menstruation. Therefore, if any symptoms of the disease appear, it is imperative to consult a doctor to clarify the diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

Treatment of Trichomoniasis

Trichomonas vaginalis is destroyed by drugs from the 5-nitromidazole group, and its treatment, as a rule, takes a rather long period of time. But therapy is not always successful, because. the bacterium may be resistant to the prescribed drug. In this regard, the patient is prescribed a second course of treatment with the use of drugs of another group.

Often, treatment failure can be attributed to re-infection from a sexual partner who is asymptomatic. Therefore, both partners should always be treated at the same time. While taking pills for trichomoniasis, you should stop drinking alcohol and exclude sexual intercourse. Pregnant women take a medication course only under the supervision of a doctor, because the drugs can adversely affect the fetus.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacvaginosis is often found in women and is an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, that is, a violation of its microflora. Infection with bacterial vaginosis can also occur through sexual contact, but the disease is not a sexually transmitted disease. Despite this, unprotected intercourse plays an important role in the occurrence of this disease. And the point here is absolutely not in infection, but in the fact that the frequent change of sexual partners affects the microflora of the vagina.

Symptoms of Vaginosis

Symptoms of emerging bacterial vaginosis are a mild white or gray frothy discharge with a characteristic rotten fish odor that may be exacerbated by unprotected intercourse. The reason is that the alkaline pH of the sperm affects the increase in volatile amines.

Bacterial vaginosis is dangerous because it increases the risk of inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages, as well as premature birth and pregnancy complications.

Treatment of Vaginosis

Treatment of bacvaginosis is prescribed only after confirmation of the diagnosis by laboratory methods, and usually consists of several stages. Basically, therapy is carried out with antimicrobial drugs in the form of tablets, creams, gels and suppositories. During treatment, it is strictly forbidden to take alcohol, as it can provoke vomiting and abdominal pain.

The second stage is the restoration of a healthy microflora of the vagina. For this purpose, eubiotics are prescribed - preparations containing beneficial lactobacilli that inhibit the growth of pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms. Men who have sexual contact with a woman with bacterial vaginosis do not need to be examined and treated.