Do you know what discharge is? Generally speaking, it is the production and secretion of fluids in the vaginal canal.
Despite being very common, not all women know what vaginal discharge is and how it works. Therefore, we have separated some important information on the subject. Firstly, it is important to remember that discharge can be considered: vaginal lubrication, arousal fluid, sperm from the day before or cervical fluid.
However, today we will focus on cervical fluid (also called cervical mucus). Type of discharge that occurs mainly during the menstrual cycle. In fact, it is the only way to distinguish the phases of ovulation.
Furthermore, when cervical mucus varies in color, consistency, smell or quantity, it can also indicate possible vaginal infections, such as, for example, bacterial imbalance or STD.
Therefore, it is important to know what each color of the cervical fluid can mean, to know when to see a gynecologist. Furthermore, check out a guide below on how to identify normal and atypical discharge. In addition to tips and care to avoid possible vaginal complications.
What is normal discharge?
Normal cervical mucus is physiological, essential for the normal functioning of the lower genital tract: consisting of the exocolon, the vagina and the vulva.
These discharges occur in situations such as: periovulatory period (transparent gelatinous discharge, similar to egg white), premenstrual period (white discharge before menstruation), during sexual intercourse and during pregnancy.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that normal discharges are transparent or white, have no smell and do not cause symptoms such as itching and burning.
What is abnormal vaginal discharge?
Abnormal discharges are those that have a thick consistency, gray, green, yellow or brown color, greater volume and a bad odor that may resemble the smell of fish. Cervical mucus like this can be a sign of hormonal problems, infections, STDs or, in rare cases, cervical cancer.
Furthermore, find out what each color of vaginal discharge below can mean.
White discharge: The thick, white discharge is accompanied by symptoms such as itching, redness and burning in the vulva and vagina area. It could be a sign of vaginal candidiasis.
Yellow or greenish-yellow discharge: This type of discharge has a strong fishy smell and can be caused by Trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted vaginal infection).
Brown discharge: Firstly, the brown fluid may contain blood and is associated with symptoms such as pain and burning when urinating. It can be caused by Gonorrhea.
Pink discharge: Pinkish discharge may indicate the beginning of pregnancy and generally occurs 3 days after intimate contact.
Causes of atypical vaginal discharge
Atypical cervical mucus happens when the vaginal microbial community is out of balance. Among the factors that can cause this imbalance are, for example:
- Poor intimate hygiene;
- Unprotected sexual activity;
- Hormonal contraceptives;
- Use of antibiotics or steroids;
- Menarche, menopause or pregnancy;
- Diabetes.
Treatment
Treatment for abnormal discharge varies depending on the cause. For example, diseases such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia or gonorrhea can be treated by applying an antibiotic gel or cream to the vagina or by taking an antibiotic orally or injecting it.
It is worth noting that treatment varies from person to person, so it is extremely important to be monitored by a gynecologist. In fact, only through examinations is it possible to truly diagnose your problem.
Prevention
Some attitudes and measures are a good way to prevent and avoid vaginal diseases and infections that can cause abnormal fluids. Firstly, it is important to maintain good feminine intimate hygiene, carried out with running water and products, preferably liquid, hypoallergenic and with an acidic pH.
Furthermore, other tips are: wearing cotton panties, not using daily sunscreen without having a menstrual cycle, avoiding using wet wipes or toilet paper with perfume and, finally, avoiding rubbing the intimate area too much.
So, what did you think of this article? Take the opportunity to also check out: Is discharge during pregnancy normal? What it means and when to see a doctor.
Sources: Saúde Bem Estar, Hello Clue, Hello Clue 2, Tua Saúde.
Image sources: Clue, R7, Blasting News, Tua Saúde, Santo Remédio, Jaleko, We Fashion Trends.
Sign up for our newsletter and stay up to date with exclusive news
that can transform your routine!
