Vaginal Discharge Specialist

What is vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is your body’s natural means of removing fluid and cells. It is a normal part of a woman’s life and usually begins around the onset of menstruation and continues until menopause, after which discharge likely declines.

The frequency and amount of vaginal discharge differ from one woman to the next. Several factors can affect vaginal discharge, including:

• Menstruation
• Pregnancy
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Infections

Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear or slightly white in color. It has a slight odor that is not foul and can change in consistency based on where you are in your menstrual cycle. 

When should I be concerned about vaginal discharge?

If you notice changes in your vaginal discharge, you may want to book a visit with your OB/GYN. Some changes can indicate an infection or other problem. Keep an eye out for the following changes:

• Color change to green, yellow, or gray
• Discharge that appears foamy or frothy
• Strong abnormal smell
• The appearance of blood outside of your menstrual cycle 
• Itchiness, accompanied by a cottage cheese appearance

Your doctor can perform simple testing to determine the cause of these changes. If you have a problem, several treatment options can help. You learn the pros and cons of each treatment option to empower you to make informed decisions about your care.  

What does vaginal discharge mean?

Some changes in vaginal discharge are no cause for concern, but others need to be addressed with treatment. Your specialist determines the cause for your discharge and suggests treatment options. 

A few of the conditions that can cause abnormal vaginal discharge include:

• Bacterial vaginosis
• Trichomoniasis
• Yeast infection
• Gonorrhea
• Chlamydia
• Pelvic inflammatory disease

Sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing can detect signs of a sexually transmitted infection. A simple course of antibiotics can clear up many of these infections. It’s important to come in for STD testing and STD treatments because some infections can cause serious problems with your fertility or overall health if left untreated. 

If you’re concerned about unusual changes in your vaginal discharge, call Ganesh OBGYN to set up a diagnostic exam. Your specialist can guide you toward the diagnostic and treatment options suited for your needs. Online booking is also available.