by Dr. Jimade Ola-Solomon

All women have some vaginal discharge, discharge is a term given to semi-fluids contained within or expelled from the vagina. They may be of various colors, (whitish, yellowish or greenish).

Persistent vaginal discharge is usually abnormal and may be due to sexually transmitted infections, they are usually very un-pleasant and worrisome.

Below are common types of discharges

White, grey, or yellow with fishy odor: This is the commonest form of vaginal discharge and is usually refered to as bacteria vaginosis.
The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is unknown, 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

Thick, white, cheesy: this are usually due to a yeast infection and are commoner called candidiasis or moniliasis, it is the second most common cause of vaginal inflammation after bacterial vaginosis. There is normally a small amount of yeast (Candida albicans) present in the vagina. A yeast infection occurs when there is an overabundance of yeast, often caused by a change in the pH balance of the vagina. Yeast infections are not usually sexually transmitted

Frothy, yellow or greenish with a bad smell: the commonest cause of this kind of vaginal discharge is trichomoniasis; these symptoms may be accompanied with or without pain and itching while urinating, depending on severity. The treatment used is the oral antibiotic, metronidazole. Remember – no alcohol consumption when taking the medication and for 48 hours after treatment. It is however advisable to treat yourself and your partner to avoid recurrence and to also abstain from sexual intercourse during the period of treatment.

15 Tips for preventing vaginal infections that can lead to abnormal discharge:

 Keep the vagina clean by washing regularly with a gentle soap and warm water.

 Never use scented soaps or douches. Also avoid feminine sprays and bubble baths.

 After going to the toilet, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from getting into the vagina and causing an infection.

 Wear 100% cotton knickers and avoid overly tight clothing.

 Have new partners wear condoms during sexual intercourse.

 Stay healthy; eat well, get enough sleep, drink enough fluids.

 Avoid using deodorant pads or tampons.

 Don’t use petroleum jelly or other oils for lubricants.

 Don’t douche.

 Use medication as long as directed.

 Avoid sexual intercourse until treatment is completed and you are symptom free.

 Don’t scratch infected or inflamed areas; it can cause further irritation.

 During an infection, use pads rather than tampons if menstruation occurs.

 Avoid vulvo/vaginal irritants, including perfumed or deodorant soaps/body washes.

 use nothing in the vagina for 48 hours prior to you seeing a gynaecologist

————————

 

Op-ed pieces and contributions are the opinions of the writers only and do not represent the opinions of Y!/YNaija.