Copious whitish discharge. Stretching mucous transparent discharge
Female discharge is conventionally divided into two types - physiological and pathological. The former are the norm and their appearance is not accompanied by any discomfort. And the latter occur only in cases where infections and inflammation appear in the vagina.White, creamy, odorless dischargeclassified as a physiological type, but only if there are no other symptoms characteristic of various pathologies.
The secretion secreted from the vagina ensures that the balance between lactic acid bacteria and opportunistic microorganisms is maintained, as well as the cleansing of the reproductive system organs from dead epithelium. Its quantity depends on the work of the glands, which are located on the mucous membranes. Their activity is influenced by both internal and external factors. When exposed to them, the amount of mucus produced increases, which is a natural protective reaction of the body.
Discharge is considered normal only if it:
- They do not have a specific smell.
- They are released in small quantities.
- Do not cause skin irritation on the labia.
Depending on the menstrual cycle, these indicators may change, which does not at all indicate pathologies. So, for example,creamy dischargeQuite often observed in young girls and women:
- In case of hormonal imbalance.
- Before menstruation.
- During the period of ovulation.
Hormonal disorders
White thick dischargewithout signs of infection or inflammation, they quite often occur in girls during puberty, when hormonal levels are developing. As a rule, they are sparse in nature and do not provide a feeling of moisture. As soon as girls have their first period, the discharge becomes almost unnoticeable and after 2-3 cycles it becomes normal.
In adult women the appearance thick leucorrhoea may be caused by the following factors:
- Pregnancy.
- Taking oral contraceptives.
- The onset of menopause.
All this is also accompanied by changes in hormonal levels, which have a direct impact on the functioning of the reproductive system. It should be noted that during pregnancy abundant white discharge can be observed instead of menstruation and this is the absolute norm.
Before your period
As a rule, white creamy discharge in womenappear at the moment when the uterus is preparing for the upcoming menstruation. This happens a few days before menstruation and the discharge itself does not cause discomfort in the perineum. A distinctive feature of such discharge is that it may contain streaks of blood, which is why it may turn pink or brownish (the appearance of the latter is caused by oxidative processes), as a result of which a woman is bothered by brown discharge before menstruation. It is worth noting that each organism is individual, so additional symptoms are possible with similar signs.
Ovulation
White discharge in womencan also be observed on days 12-16 of the menstrual cycle, which is caused by the onset of the period of release of the egg from the follicle (ovulation). During this period, the cervix produces a lot of mucus in order to cleanse itself of harmful microorganisms and protect the fertilized egg from infections (if it suddenly penetrates the uterine cavity).
Depending on the microflora of the vagina, this mucus may turn white. But! In the absence of pathology and infectionsmid-cycle dischargeThey do not smell or irritate the skin!
Other reasons
Thick white dischargein women they are quite often observed after unprotected sex. Their occurrence is caused by the body’s cleansing of male ejaculate that has entered the vagina during sex.
Male sperm contains protein and when it enters the acidic microflora, this protein coagulates, which causes the appearance ofwhite discharge, sometimes thick. They can be observed within 12-24 hours after sexual contact with a man.
Vaginal dischargemay also arise due to the fault of the woman herself. Wearing tight synthetic underwear, using intimate hygiene products that contain a lot of alkali (for example, regular toilet soap), frequent douching, poor personal hygiene - all this can cause discharge white , since when exposed to these factors, the acid-base balance in the vagina changes.
Discharge without odor or itchingmay also occur due to:
- Frequent stress.
- Abrupt climate change.
- Taking antibacterial drugs.
- Promiscuous sex life.
Important! In any case, in the absence of infections and inflammations, the secretion that is released from the vagina does not have a sharp specific odor and is not accompanied by itching, burning or irritation. If other symptoms appear, then you should not delay going to the doctor, since in this case there can be no talk of any normality. The woman needs careful examination and treatment.
Signs of infection and inflammation
Every woman should know the signs of infections and inflammations, since only in this way can she identify the problem in time and begin treatment, preventing complications from occurring. As a rule, in the presence of pathological processes, the appearance of vaginal discharge is always accompanied by additional symptoms.
For example, viscous and bad-smelling discharge may occur due to inflammation of the fallopian tubes. Most often they are profuse and are accompanied by acute pain in the lower abdomen during movements. The appearance of an unpleasant odor is caused by the accumulation of purulent exudate in the fallopian tubes, which penetrates the uterine cavity and then exits through the cervix.
The discharge is white and unpleasant smelling may be a sign of the development of endometritis. This disease is characterized by inflammation of the uterus. In this case, no itching or burning in the perineal area is observed. However, a woman may periodically experience painful sensations in the lower abdomen, which intensify with intense physical exertion or sexual intercourse.
Cervicitis is another disease in which a stringy white mucous discharge appears. It is characterized by inflammation of the cervix, which most often occurs when pathogenic bacteria invade the vagina. In this case, there is also aching pain in the lower abdomen and discharge, which may contain streaks of blood.
If in the discharge there are lumps, dense white clots or flakes, while irritation appears in the intimate area, itching and burning, then this already indicates the development of a disease such as thrush. As a rule, very heavy discharge is observed during itwith a sour smell, the labia swell and a whitish coating appears on their surface. The skin itself turns red and begins to peel.
The main reason for the development of thrush is the active growth of Candida fungi, which are part of the natural microflora of the vagina. Activation of their growth can occur for the following reasons:
- Decreased immunity.
- Frequent stress.
- Poor nutrition.
- Hypothermia.
- Alcohol abuse.
- Taking certain medications.
The same reasons can provoke active reproduction in the vagina of opportunistic microorganisms - gardnerella. In this case, white discharge is also noted, only it becomes more liquid and depletes the smell of rotten fish.
Important! If a woman has a whitish-green or yellow discharge, then this is already a sign of the development of an STD, for example, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, ureaplasmosis or mycoplasmosis.
If white, thick vaginal discharge occurs, you should contact a gynecologist. Only he can answer accurately Why they appeared and what needs to be done. To make a diagnosis, you just need to take a smear for bacterial culture and undergo an ultrasound examination, which will confirm/refute the presence of inflammatory processes.
As a rule, odorless and itchy discharge, pain and other symptoms that occur during certain periods of the cycle do not require treatment. But for those conditions where other symptoms are present, treatment is selected strictly on an individual basis, depending on the cause of their occurrence.
For example, thrush is treated with special antifungal drugs. In this case, not only women, but also their sexual partners are treated. They are prescribed antifungal ointments, which they must use to treat the penis several times a day.
When inflammation is detected, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating drugs are used. If STDs have been identified, specific therapy is carried out with the participation of antibacterial agents.
It is impossible to say exactly how to treat discharge in women. It all depends on the cause of their occurrence and the individual characteristics of the body. Therefore, you should not self-medicate and if you suspect the development of infectious or inflammatory diseases, it is better to immediately seek help from a doctor and follow all his recommendations.
Video on the topic
White discharge periodically appears in women. Their presence and abundance depends on physiological changes in the body - puberty, periods in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause. Without odor and discomfort in an intimate place, white discharge is considered normal and can occur at one time or another.
The vaginal microflora consists of fermented lactic acid bacteria (Dederlein bacillus). They prevail in quantity and quality over other microorganisms and create a protective environment for the woman’s genitourinary system. Dead epithelial cells (constantly renewed) and a few leukocytes (permissible 5–6 cells) may also be present here.
Normal clear discharge may turn white and change in volume depending on menstruation or during pregnancy. This is a normal vaginal discharge and is no cause for concern.
Signs of white vaginal discharge that are normal:
- no obvious foreign odor, no discomfort in the intimate area;
- discharge of a liquid structure, slightly watery, and at different periods of menstruation can be viscous and thick white;
- color varies from white to cream or pale yellow at the beginning of the menstrual cycle, which becomes clear after ovulation;
- the amount of discharge per day does not exceed 6–7 ml;
- the abundance of vaginal discharge increases before menstruation, during sexual arousal and intercourse.
It must be remembered that if the white discharge does not have an unpleasant odor, is not accompanied by abdominal pain and does not cause discomfort in the form of itching in the genitals, we are talking about healthy vaginal microflora.
Factors of pathological changes in vaginal fluid of an allergenic nature
Allergens can be common causes of changes in vaginal discharge. This applies to frequent douching or washing with hygiene products that contain aggressive elements in their composition.
If we talk about products that are used as lubricants during intimate relationships, then they also have their own allergens-lubricants. They can cause white and thick discharge, provoke itching and even burning when urinating.
Another allergen that affects the consistency and color of vaginal fluid is latex (the material from which condoms are made). Quite often they cause allergic reactions in women.
Thus, if, after an examination by a doctor, gardnerellosis or candidiasis have been ruled out, and the woman is confident in her sexual partner, you should pay attention to allergens that can cause discomfort in the vagina.
Pathological discharge of an infectious nature
If vaginal discharge begins to acquire a rich white color, and a pronounced sour odor appears, we may be talking about the presence of an allergen in the vagina or a fungus that provokes the development of candidiasis - thrush. The most common sign of the disease is a large amount of cheesy discharge.
The main causes of thrush:
- stressful situations, nervous overstrain;
- hormonal imbalances;
- decrease in the body's defenses;
- exposure to food or chemical allergens;
- pregnancy period;
- abuse of alcohol, nicotine, junk food (salty, sweet, spicy);
- microtrauma of the vagina received during aggressive sexual intercourse;
- violation of the rules of hygiene of intimate places.
The development of candidiasis can also be caused by long-term use of antibiotic-based drugs.
In addition to thrush, white discharge with an odor and itching may indicate gardnerellosis of the vaginal microflora. The causative agent of this disease is the bacterium gardnerella, which in small quantities can be constantly present in the intimate environment, but with a decrease in immunity it rapidly develops and displaces healthy lactobacilli.
Gardnerellosis or bacterial vaginosis is accompanied by profuse white discharge, itching and an unpleasant burning sensation in the genitals. The smell is reminiscent of fish, and the vaginal fluid may acquire a grayish tint and a foamy consistency.
Candidiasis and gardnerellosis are somewhat similar in their symptoms. In the first stages of development, they are almost impossible to distinguish without microscopic analysis of a vaginal smear. Treatment of both candidiasis and gardnerellosis should be prescribed only after abnormalities in the smear are detected and with appropriate symptoms. Treatment for such diseases cannot be prescribed unless they are confirmed by tests.
It must be remembered that only in the first stages can thrush and bacterial vaginosis be similar. As the disease progresses, candidiasis produces bright white discharge of a curd-like structure with a sour odor. With gardnerellosis, the vaginal fluid begins to acquire a greenish tint over time, and the smell becomes putrid and fishy. The itching and burning begin to increase and cause significant discomfort to the woman.
Methods for dealing with possible deviations
After the doctor conducts an examination and finds the cause of the white pathological discharge, treatment is prescribed. The complex of therapy may include medications (antifungals, drugs to enhance immunity), vaginal suppositories to reduce the symptoms of the disease.
When restoring the vaginal microflora, it is useful to douche with herbs, for example, decoctions of chamomile, calendula, and string. The main thing is not to abuse such procedures and not to replace the main treatment with them.
During treatment, it is useful to exclude everything spicy, fatty, salty and sweet from the diet. It is also necessary to give up alcohol and tobacco abuse. A woman should not forget about the rules of intimate hygiene, but also not overdo it (no more than 2 times a day).
The appearance of white discharge does not always indicate the presence of pathological processes in the vagina or the genitourinary system as a whole. It is necessary to understand that such vaginal fluid may appear depending on physiological changes in the woman’s body. If the discharge returns to normal within a short time, there is no reason to worry. You should be wary if accompanying symptoms appear - pain, burning, itching in an intimate place. In this situation, consulting a doctor is mandatory.
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Provided there is no discomfort and poor health, thick white discharge in women is a completely normal and natural phenomenon. But if this symptom is accompanied by itching, pain in the uterus or ovaries, you should consult a gynecologist. Perhaps these are the first symptoms of a serious illness.
The mucous, light lubricant released from a woman’s vagina is called leucorrhoea. This phenomenon can have many causes, including natural physiological processes or pathological phenomena from the reproductive system.
Regarding the origin that caused the pathological release of secretion, several types of leucorrhoea are distinguished:
- Vaginal - appear during the healing phase of various diseases of the genitourinary system.
- Tubal - appear as a result of inflammation of the cervix or fallopian tubes. A distinctive feature of these discharges is a yellowish tint and liquid consistency;
- Cervical - appear due to dysfunction of the cervix. The main causes are cancer, gonorrhea, chlamydia.
- Uterine - arise due to the presence of inflammatory processes or neoplasms on the mucous membrane of the uterus. In this case, the secretion is watery, purulent, and in the later stages of the disease becomes brown.
If the presence of spotting clots of an uncharacteristic color causes discomfort or unpleasant sensations, you should seek medical help to exclude severe pathologies.
Reasons
There are over 10 reasons for the appearance of white thick discharge in women - mainly infectious and inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and urinary system. Pathologies can occur both acutely and chronically - symptoms in the form of vaginal secretion occur in both cases. Occasionally, white vaginal discharge is a consequence of problems with the endocrine or nervous system.
Dysbacteriosis
Violation of the intestinal microflora in 100% of cases leads to the appearance of a light, thick secretion. The reason for the development of the condition is the presence of colitis, an unbalanced diet (abuse of hard-to-digest foods), previous poisoning or infectious processes of the digestive tract. In addition to white thick secretion, a woman experiences bloating, pain when palpating the abdominal cavity, and decreased appetite. When visiting a gynecologist, it is important to inform him about the presence of dysbacteriosis or digestive problems.
Thrush
A common female disease, the essence of which is the entry of fungal microflora into the vagina, and its active reproduction within the urinary system. Vaginal candidiasis occurs when:
- Long-term antibiotic therapy
- Unprotected intimacy with a partner who does not comply with hygiene procedures fully or is infected with a fungus
- Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
- Recently performed diagnostic and treatment procedures using non-sterile instruments
The symptoms of vaginal candidiasis are specific: a woman experiences thick or cheesy vaginal discharge, itching, and swelling of the vaginal tissue. Additionally, problems arise with urination: the process is accompanied by pain, and the urine emits a fishy or acidic smell.
Multiple erosions form on the mucous membrane of the labia - they look like elongated thin wounds that are painful but do not bleed. The defect is detected during examination on a gynecological chair. If left untreated for a long time, thrush takes on a protracted form and is difficult to eliminate.
In all cases of development of vaginal candidiasis, therapy must begin with diet and temporary cessation of sexual activity. The pathogenic microflora that causes thrush lives in a humid and warm environment, and glycogen serves as a favorable condition for its reproduction. During treatment, a woman should avoid eating sweets (including fruit), carbonated drinks, and coffee.
Endometritis, adnexitis
Inflammation of the inner layer of the uterus and appendages (ovaries, fallopian tubes) occurs due to:
- Hypothermia
- Intimacy with a partner suffering from various urogenital infections
- Previous curettage of the uterine cavity (termination of pregnancy)
- Hereditary predisposition
- Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules
- Movement of pathogenic microflora from foci located near the uterus and appendages
Among the primary symptoms are the appearance of thick leucorrhoea, a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen, and an increase in body temperature. Vaginal discharge has a purulent or putrid odor. Endometritis can provoke adnexitis, and vice versa.
This is due to the close location of the organs of the female reproductive system. When inflammation becomes chronic, the severity of symptoms decreases somewhat, but the condition is complemented by weakened libido and disruption of the menstrual cycle. Endometritis and adnexitis can lead to problems with conception, provoke cancer, and reduce the body's immune abilities.
Colpitis
Inflammation of the vaginal mucosa causes the penetration of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. This occurs when personal hygiene rules are not followed, allergies to latex, pads or underwear; due to food intolerance. Also, irritation of the vaginal mucosa is facilitated by frequent douching with high concentration solutions, intimacy with a partner who does not take care of personal hygiene. Somewhat less commonly, colpitis is the result of helminthic infestation.
Regardless of the type of pathogenic microflora, a woman experiences:
- Increased body temperature
- Redness of the mucous membranes of the vagina
- Itching and swelling of vaginal tissues
- The appearance of white thick vaginal discharge
- Decreased libido due to pain and general deterioration of health
- Pain and irritation during urination
- Difficulty getting into a comfortable body position
Colpitis can be easily eliminated using an integrated approach. If inflammation is not eliminated in the acute phase of its development, it takes a protracted form. In this case, with every unprotected intimacy, the woman will experience acute pain in the vagina. After infection with fungi, the patient’s sexual partner is highly likely to develop balanoposthitis, an inflammation of the head of the penis.
Vaginosis occurs as a result of unprotected sexual intercourse with a carrier of bacterial microflora. A woman may not know about the presence of the disease for a long time - for a certain period the infectious process is asymptomatic.
Signs of pathology resemble the clinical manifestations of many gynecological and urological diseases - thrush, inflammation of the ovaries or urethra. Thick leucorrhoea occurs along with other symptoms; it has an unpleasant fishy or putrid odor, entering the bladder and contributing to its inflammation. Gardnerellosis is a leading cause of female infertility.
Taking antibiotics
Long-term antibacterial therapy always negatively affects the state of the intestinal and vaginal microflora. Together with the source of inflammation, pathogens partially destroy the natural environment of the digestive tract.
Manifestations of this condition:
- Repeated diarrhea
- Nausea, vomiting
- Loud bowel movements
- Bloating, accumulation of intestinal gases
- Decreased appetite
- Bitter taste in mouth
- The appearance of a gray or white coating on the tongue
- Abdominal pain that worsens on examination
Lastly, after the listed symptoms, a woman experiences a copious amount of thick white vaginal discharge. In most cases, the condition is associated with a separately occurring thrush, although the actual cause of the development of the condition is a violation of the intestinal microflora. To avoid severe damage, a woman should take Linex, Bifidumbacterin or Nystatin simultaneously with antibiotics. This will allow you to maintain digestion at a normal level and undergo antibacterial therapy without complications.
Taking birth control medications
Uncontrolled use of hormonal contraceptives leads to the development of problems with the activity of the reproductive system. The condition of the ovaries is disrupted, which causes the appearance of multiple symptoms, including the discharge of a white thick consistency from the vagina.
Additional symptoms of hormonal imbalance:
- Neurological disorders (headaches, dizziness, weakness, increased fatigue)
- Weakening libido
- Failure of the menstrual cycle, increased volume of blood released
Due to uncontrolled use of oral contraceptives, a woman may develop hormone-dependent tumors of the reproductive system. A gynecologist-endocrinologist deals with the correction of a woman’s health. Treatment begins with the abolition of all hormonal contraceptives.
Lack of vitamins
Hypovitaminosis rarely manifests itself as a disorder of the organs of the female reproductive system. Basically, this concerns the fullness of the menstrual cycle. But in 1% of cases, a lack of vitamins in the body is accompanied by the appearance of white vaginal secretion. Having established the relationship between nutrient deficiency and the appearance of discharge, you need to adjust the diet in favor of foods containing B vitamins.
Stress
The ovaries have a natural synchronization with parts of the brain. Therefore, the impact of irritating factors immediately affects the endocrine system and ovarian activity, leading to hormonal imbalance. The appearance of copious amounts of leucorrhoea indicates an imbalance of estrogen in the blood. To eliminate the symptom, it is enough to normalize the psycho-emotional state. In severe stressful situations, you should visit a psychologist (for consultation) and a neurologist (to obtain medication prescriptions).
Climate change
In a small number of cases, the acclimatization process leads to hormonal imbalances, and the woman experiences problems with ovarian function. Among other symptoms, the patient develops vaginal discharge of a thick, odorless consistency. They do not cause discomfort, but serve as a favorable environment for the proliferation of bacterial microflora. To prevent the development of infection, a woman should carefully and timely perform intimate hygiene measures, avoid stress, and prevent overwork.
Possible complications
In all cases of inflammatory and infectious processes of the organs of the urogenital tract, there is a risk of the disease progressing to the chronic stage. This aggravates the patient’s well-being and creates difficulties in finding the optimal type of treatment. For protracted diseases, the therapeutic course takes twice as long.
Complications of diseases that lead to the development of a large amount of thick discharge:
- Infertility. Consequences of chronic adnexitis. Due to inflammation, the fallopian tubes are stuck together with pathological secretions. Therefore, sperm cannot fertilize the egg, and conception does not occur.
- Adhesive disease. Characteristic adhesions occur in areas of prolonged inflammation in the organs of the genitourinary or digestive system.
- Ectopic pregnancy. It can be tubal, ovarian or even abdominal. Serves as a consequence of prolonged inflammation in the urogenital tract.
- Intestinal obstruction. Develops due to the formation of adhesions in the digestive or urogenital tract.
Inflammation of the internal uterine layer leads to its thinning and weakening, so in pregnant women the implanted fertilized egg may be rejected. As a result, the woman experiences a miscarriage. This can happen both in early pregnancy and immediately before childbirth. Also, against the background of diseases that cause thick leucorrhoea, uterine bleeding, hormonal imbalance, the formation of fibroids or cystic cavities may occur.
Lubrication during the development of candidiasis
Candidiasis or thrush is a common infectious disease. Its causative agent is the pathogenic fungus Candida. The disease progresses when the bacterial microflora is disrupted, or when transmitted from a sick partner to a healthy one during sexual contact.
Characteristic differences in lubricant for candidiasis:
- abundant
- strong sour aroma
- curdled consistency
- the shade is white, but, subject to the addition of other infections, may change
- accompanied by pain when urinating, burning, itching in the area of the internal and external genitalia
This disease is contagious and can become chronic, so it requires immediate treatment.
Lubrication during the development of gardnerellosis
Gardnerellosis is one of the variants of bacterial vaginosis. Malaise manifests itself against the background of an imbalance of microflora in the female genital organs. There are many causes of this disease, the most common of which are:
- promiscuity
- unbalanced diet
- venereal and chronic diseases
- taking antibiotics or birth control
- incorrect douching technique
- hormonal disorders
- weakened immune system
- stress, fatigue
Leucorrhoea with gardnerellosis has a pasty or uniform texture, a grayish-white color and a pronounced “fishy” aroma. The problem is accompanied by itching and burning, unpleasant painful sensations during urination or sexual intercourse.
What is considered normal?
Normally, a secretion comes out of the vagina of a healthy woman - transparent or whitish in color. Its quantity and consistency change during the menstrual cycle, but the smell remains faint and sour.
Normal stages of secretion appearance:
- at the beginning of the cycle - scant
- in the middle of the cycle - a slight increase in density and quantity
- period of ovulation, before the onset of menstruation - the appearance of copious creamy sputum
Also, a certain amount of lubricant is released during or after sexual intercourse.
Before the onset of menstruation, the mucous secretion has a uniform, creamy texture. The shade of sputum can vary from light beige to white.
Leucorrhoea during ovulation
Ovulation is the rupture of the follicle and the release of a mature egg. This phenomenon is accompanied by the release of viscous elastic mucus, similar to egg white. The color of the secretion can be colorless, with a white or yellow tint. In some cases, bloody streaks are observed.
Mucus during pregnancy
In early pregnancy and during the formation of a mucus plug, abundant light beige or white clots may be observed in the cervical canal. Such a secretion is considered a variant of the norm, provided that it is not accompanied by unpleasant sensations or discomfort. Otherwise, you should consult your doctor.
Which doctor should I contact?
If there is pathological lubrication, a woman should see a gynecologist, who will conduct an appropriate examination and, if necessary, prescribe tests.
Diagnostics include:
- examination on a chair
- colposcopy if erosion or dysplasia is suspected
- flora smear
- bacterial sowing
- PCR smear analysis
- transvaginal ultrasound
If problems are observed in a pregnant woman, this should be reported to the obstetrician-gynecologist during a routine examination.
Treatment
Treatment for leucorrhoea is prescribed by a gynecologist after identifying the root cause. Self-medication in this case is unacceptable, because incorrectly selected drugs will only aggravate the patient’s condition.
Therapeutic measures are aimed at:
- elimination of the cause depending on the pathogen: antibacterial or antiviral drugs, surgery, etc.
- restoration of normal microflora balance
- improving immunity (if necessary)
- restoration of affected tissues, improvement of blood circulation and microcirculation: physiotherapy, swimming, physical therapy.
After treatment, the patient must follow preventive measures aimed at reducing the risk of developing the disease in the future.
Prevention
To avoid the development of conditions that lead to the appearance of thick white discharge, a woman should:
- Avoid unsupervised use of any medications. Even if a specific drug was prescribed by a doctor, exceeding the prescribed dosage is contraindicated
- Undergo seasonal vitamin therapy (spring, autumn)
- Perform hygiene procedures in a timely and thorough manner
- Balance your diet
- Limit yourself from stressful events
- Strengthen immunity by normalizing the quality of nutrition, improving working and rest conditions
- Avoid casual sex
- If possible, do not use vaginal tampons - use pads
- Don't get too cold
- If you do not want to get pregnant, choose the optimal type of contraception together with your gynecologist.
It is equally important to avoid staying near sources of toxic effects and not to use the intrauterine device for longer than the prescribed period.
Video: What discharge should women be wary of?
One of the symptoms that makes a woman think about trouble in the genital tract is profuse white vaginal discharge (leucorrhoea). Their character, color and smell may vary. We must remember that they can be normal - white discharge is a natural product of the body’s vital activity, since the cells covering the walls of the vagina are constantly being renewed. However, most often such complaints are a sign of an inflammatory process that is caused by one or another infection.
WHY IS THERE A WHITE DISCHARGE?
Any unusual vaginal discharge, including heavy white and itchy discharge, indicates a genitourinary tract infection. They often appear in various gynecological (for example, adnexitis, vaginitis, colpitis) and other diseases. They can also occur with prolapse of the vaginal walls, long-term use of chemical contraceptives, with congestion in the pelvic organs caused by constipation and a sedentary lifestyle, and violation of personal hygiene rules. Therefore, the appearance of copious, white discharge in a girl’s panties, especially with an odor, is a reason to visit a gynecologist and get tested for infections.
WHAT CAUSES INCREASED WHITE DISCHARGE WITHOUT ODOR AND ITCHING:
- changes in hormone levels;
- pregnancy period;
- stressful situations and depression;
- constant overwork;
- failure to comply with intimate hygiene rules;
- use of underwear made of synthetic fabrics;
- trauma to the vaginal mucosa (sexual contact, masturbation, etc.);
- eating spicy foods;
- violation of vaginal microflora;
- sudden climate change.
DISCHARGE IN VIRGINS
If you are a girl and have not had intimate relationships in any form, then there are several reasons for the appearance of discharge (ovulation period, change of cycle phase, climate change, for example) and this is a completely normal phenomenon.
In virgins, white discharge can also occur when there is trouble in the sexual sphere. A visit to a good doctor and getting tested will help you recognize this. Tests are taken from girls and women through the hole in the hymen using special thin soft probes. The collection procedure, carried out by our gynecologists, is absolutely painless, damage to the hymen is excluded!
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE COMPLAINTS?
To clarify the cause of the appearance of white discharge, a woman needs to undergo an appropriate laboratory examination - a smear for flora, PCR tests, and cultures. If you are interested in taking all the necessary tests to establish an accurate diagnosis, you can contact us at any time the clinic is open. Ready time 1-2 days. You can register by phone
At different periods of the monthly cycle, a woman may experience discharge that varies in consistency and quantity. Depending on the general condition of the body, their smell and color may also change. But if in the middle of the cycle there is active mucus secretion from the vagina, or more unusual discharge appears, this often makes a woman worry. After all, it is always important to know whether such a condition is normal, and whether these manifestations are a sign of a developing disease. Below we will talk about why lingering discharge in the form of mucus appears, as well as when white lingering discharge in women can be evidence of pathology.
Why does mucous discharge appear?
Why does abundant mucous discharge appear in women, what is it, and is it normal - such questions at certain periods of life become relevant for almost every woman. Normally, slightly white mucous discharge in women appears in small quantities. They are opaque because there are epithelial cells in the vagina, which gradually acquire a yellow-white tint on the underwear throughout the day. Before menstruation, mucous discharge may be more abundant; after menstruation, for several days it has a pinkish tint.
When is mucus discharge normal?
During the monthly cycle, mucus secretion in women occurs differently at different periods. Therefore, it is important to know in which cases the discharge is related to physiology and indicates a normal state of health.
The volume and consistency of discharge may vary due to the following factors:
- Period of the monthly cycle. Throughout the cycle, changes occur in the consistency and volume of mucus. In the first half, the discharge is colorless and liquid, in the second it is more viscous, “snotty”. Just before your period, they become creamy and have a sour smell. After menstruation, the amount of mucus decreases and the smell disappears.
- Age. In girls up to about ten years of age, vaginal discharge does not appear at all, since her eggs have not yet matured, and there are no cyclic changes yet. But if a little girl has discharge in the form of white clots, mixed with pus or blood, she urgently needs to consult a doctor - a pediatric gynecologist.
- . During menopause, women are often bothered by vaginal dryness, which manifests itself due to a sharp reduction in mucus secretion due to a decrease in the amount of hormone. Therefore, during menopause, very little mucus is secreted.
- Treatment with hormones and oral contraceptives. When using such products, some women secrete mucus in smaller quantities than usual.
- Strong stress . With constant fatigue and tension or after experiencing stress, vaginal dryness is often noted. Therefore, the volume of clear mucus decreases.
- Sexual intercourse. Before sexual contact, the amount of discharge increases sharply.
- . Watery discharge becomes more abundant after conception. During pregnancy, the nature of the discharge changes.
- Consequences of childbirth. Lochia – of blood and mucus gradually give way to clear mucus.
- . During lactation it is actively produced. Less mucus is produced during this period.
More information about discharge at different periods of a woman’s life will be discussed below.
Discharge during ovulation
In the first phase of the monthly cycle, very abundant transparent discharge, as a rule, does not appear. But then, at the ovulatory stage, the mucus in the cervical canal liquefies. It becomes stringy and viscous to make it easier for sperm to enter the uterine cavity.
Therefore, during the period when a woman ovulates - approximately on days 12-16 of the cycle, light transparent discharge is replaced by viscous, stretchy and thicker ones. During ovulation, women experience more transparent mucous discharge, like egg white, sometimes jelly-like. The woman notices that there are many such leucorrhoea for several days. In addition, sometimes during ovulation there is pain or a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen. Such sensations go away after a few days.
During ovulation, pink discharge may appear. This is due to a slight release of blood as a result of follicle rupture. Such manifestations should not frighten or alarm, provided that they go away in a day or two.
After ovulation, the clear mucous vaginal discharge becomes sticky and sticky again. After ovulation, the functioning of the female reproductive system is determined by the hormone, so at this time the discharge is less abundant. But at the same time the mucus becomes thicker. Sometimes in the second half of the cycle, vaginal discharge is so scanty that a woman may think that she has no discharge.
But if white discharge appears after ovulation, and at the same time discomfort is felt in the genital area, one can suspect the development. In this case, it is better to ask a specialist about why women secrete white mucus.
Before sexual contact
The causes of transparent mucous discharge in women and girls may also be associated with strong arousal. Immediately before sexual contact, when excited, their number increases, as well as after sexual contact. In most cases, clear, odorless vaginal mucus causes genital irritation without causing itching or burning. Such manifestations are completely normal.
In the second half of the cycle
During this period, after the end ovulation , the discharge is normally more scanty, it has a creamy consistency. Often, clear discharge before menstruation becomes more abundant again - this happens 2-3 days before menstruation. A woman needs to worry only if leucorrhoea appears with an odor, pronounced white or yellow-green. This may indicate the onset of an inflammatory process or other pathological conditions. Therefore, if you are bothered by leucorrhoea with a smell, a strange consistency and color, it is better to immediately consult a doctor.
Thus, throughout the entire cycle, the nature of the discharge changes. Immediately after menstruation, almost no clear mucus appears from the uterus, that is, immediately after menstruation, the so-called “dry” period begins. During ovulation, mucus becomes similar to egg white. In the second period of the cycle, the discharge again becomes sticky and sticky. And just before menstruation, clear liquid discharge appears in women, like water.
If there is a delay in menstruation, then mucous discharge also appears instead of menstruation. After all, during pregnancy there is also discharge.
During pregnancy
Often, when a pregnant woman produces mucus from the vagina in the form of snot, the woman begins to seriously worry about whether the process of bearing the baby is proceeding normally. To do this, it is important to know the characteristics of such manifestations at each stage of pregnancy.
Until the 12th week, the functioning of the reproductive system is determined by progesterone , under the influence of which mucous discharge appears - like “snot” from the vagina. Discharges as clear as snot are considered a sign of pregnancy.
But already from the 13th week, transparent discharge, like snot, without odor, becomes more liquid and abundant, as the phase of hormone activity begins. Normally, mucous, snot-like discharge in women does not cause discomfort and has no odor. If the eggs are a little stretchy, white-like, a little whitish, but at the same time uniform, this is normal.
If the mucus secretion is too intense, you should use panty liners. It is better not to use tampons during pregnancy.
Pregnant women often develop candidiasis , .
Too strong leucorrhoea, in which lumps, flakes, clots are detected, as well as very intense white discharge, like snot, with cheesy inclusions and an unpleasant odor, and also if the lower abdomen hurts, this is a reason to contact your gynecologist. He will determine why this is happening and prescribe the correct treatment. After all, this condition can cause termination of pregnancy.
Mucus discharge instead of menstruation
Often a woman experiences heavy discharge before her period. But, despite the fact that the answer to the question whether it is normal to have white discharge before menstruation is positive, it is important not to miss the onset of a developing disease. If the departments have acquired an unpleasant odor or any symptoms develop that alarm the woman, she should not delay contacting a doctor.
It happens that on those days when menstruation is supposed to begin, a woman experiences white discharge instead of menstruation. If there are no unpleasant sensations, then it is quite possible that we are talking about a slight delay, and menstruation will begin soon. But if the discharge is cheesy, white-yellow, causing itching and burning, then most likely candidiasis or an infectious disease develops.
Sometimes heavy white discharge before menstruation is evidence of pregnancy. This is a kind of protective reaction of the body - mucus should protect the uterus from infections.
This is also possible with hormonal and endocrine disorders, after severe stress or after too intense physical activity. But in this case, it is still better to consult a doctor and make sure that everything is fine with your health.
The development of pathological processes should be suspected if the smell of mucus becomes sharp, sour and unpleasant. It may also resemble the smell of rotten fish. Such manifestations are typical for bacterial vaginitis or other sexually transmitted diseases. With genital infections, transparent, stretchy mucous discharge in men may also appear, so representatives of the stronger sex in this case will also need an urgent consultation with a doctor.
If heavy discharge changes color and becomes yellowish-green or deep yellow, sometimes the lower abdomen hurts, this also indicates the development of unpleasant diseases. Even if pain in the lower abdomen appears rarely, but the color of the mucus has changed dramatically, it is better to consult a doctor.
If a woman after forty years has very abundant watery discharge or mucus like jelly, this should also be alarming. The doctor will be able to determine whether the discharge is like jelly, whether it is a pathology or the norm, after examination and testing.
The mucous membranes gradually change their character during thrush - they become white and cheesy. In this case, discomfort, itching, and periodic burning develop. In this case, the use of antifungal drugs will be required. It is quite possible that your sexual partner will also have to undergo such therapy.
In any period other than menstruation, a woman should be concerned about why there is discharge mixed with blood. This may be evidence of dangerous diseases.
Thus, if for a long time the daily amount of mucus exceeds the volume of one teaspoon, if the color of the secretions changes to yellow, green, brown or red and a bad odor appears, you must definitely visit a doctor. Symptoms that should alert you are also pain in the lower abdomen, itching and redness of the genitals, and increased body temperature. If at least some of these symptoms bother a woman, it is important to get tested. After all, we can talk about inflammatory diseases, sexually transmitted infections, cysts , erosions etc.
Conclusions
Mucous discharge from the vagina in a woman is a physiological phenomenon and absolutely normal. But at the same time, it is very important to carefully monitor whether their character changes and whether symptoms appear that are alarming. It should be understood that the sooner a woman contacts a gynecologist if there are alarming signs, the sooner the treatment prescribed by the doctor will work.
If there are certain doubts about whether everything is normal with vaginal discharge, or if previously uncharacteristic phenomena, for example, mucus during menstruation, are periodically bothering you, it is worth taking a smear test. Provided that the quantity is not more than normal and the flora is dominated by rods, you don’t have to worry about inflammation.
Every woman must strictly follow the rules of intimate hygiene. Mom needs to teach the girls this in a timely manner. After all, with the wrong approach to hygiene, mucus will accumulate on the genitals, and pathogenic microorganisms will multiply in it.