While slight vaginal discharge is common in women, abnormal discharge caused can result in severe consequences if not treated on time. In this report from Dr. Max Mongelli, we’ll have a look at what abnormal vaginal discharge is, what are its common symptoms and causes.
Slight vaginal discharge is common among women. However, it is important for a woman to understand the difference between normal and abnormal discharge. The latter can be caused due to several reasons and can result in severe complications if not treated on time. Dr. Max Mongelli in his report has highlighted the difference between normal and abnormal discharge and has listed some of the common causes of abnormal discharge.
Normal and Abnormal Discharge
A slight discharge which increases around two weeks before the menses is normal. It is white or clear and doesn’t have any odor. This discharge is non-irritant and often increases during ovulation. On the other hand, abnormal discharge results in irritation, itching and burning sensation. Moreover, it often has an unpleasant odor.
Common Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Some of the most common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge include-
- Vaginitis- One of the most common reasons for abnormal discharge is vaginitis. It can be atropic, irritant or infectious vaginitis. Atropic vaginitis is caused due to deficiency of estrogen. More than 40% of the post-menopausal women suffer from this. Irritant vaginitis can be due to the use of harsh soap, deodorized tampons, fabric softeners, and perfumed toilet papers. Infectious vaginitis is usually caused due to bacteria, fungi, viruses or protozoa.
- Cervicitis- Cervicitis results in inflammation of cervix which is the lower end of the uterus which opens into the vagina. It can be caused due to several reasons like infections, STDs, physical or chemical irritations and allergies.
- Bacterial Vaginosis- This is usually transmitted sexually or due to a sudden change in the balance of bacterial flora. Bacteroides, Gardnerella, Mycoplasma and Mobiluncus commonly cause bacterial vaginosis.
As per Dr. Max Mongelli’s report, these are some of the most common causes that can result in abnormal vaginal discharge. Apart from the ones mentioned above, some other causes include Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, Chlamydia, Colon Bacilli Vaginitis, Herpes Simplex Virus, Trichomoniasis, and Foreign Bodies. A woman should immediately seek medical help if they notice any of the symptoms of abnormal discharge for timely cure.
