Seeking help about an unusual vaginal discharge can feel embarrassing. Having to discuss such as personal problem with a doctor can be incredibly difficult, but it is also hugely important. Many of the causes of abnormal discharges from the vagina are very serious, and some can even be fatal.
There are a number of signs that a discharge from the vagina is problematic. A clear or white discharge is commonly produced at certain stages of the menstrual cycle, and is nothing to worry about. Abnormal discharge may be thicker or heavier than is usually experienced. It could be similar to pus, or appear clumpy, thick and white. It may have an unusual color, for example, green, grey, or yellow, or it may be slightly blood colored. A strong, foul odor is another sign that a discharge is problematic. Any additional symptoms that may be associated with a vaginal discharge, such as bloodiness, itchiness, a burning sensation, pain or a rash are also indications of a medical problem.
Many people choose to search online for answers to their questions about any strange health problems that they are experiencing, particularly when it comes to symptoms such as vaginal discharge. This can be a useful first step, particularly when it helps to build enough urgency and confidence to talk to a medical professional about the problem. Looking for answers online is not enough, however. The causes of a vaginal discharge can only be accurately determined by a doctor after conducting an examination and laboratory tests. It is too easy to confuse the symptoms of different infections and other causes of vaginal discharge to be able to determine what the problem is simply from comparing the discharge to descriptions from the Internet.
Making an appointment with a doctor to discuss a vaginal discharge can be less intimidating when it is clear what can be expected during that appointment.
Doctors investigating an abnormal vaginal discharge will often ask for a full sexual history as well as a clinical one. This can help to determine whether the cause could be a sexually transmitted infection. The doctor will also ask about how the discharge has changed over time and what other symptoms, if any, have been experienced. They will ask about when the discharge began and how long it has lasted. They will also want to know about the color and consistency of the discharge, and whether there has been any odor associated with it. Other symptoms that they will want to know about include any itchiness, pain in either the vagina or the abdomen, and any abnormal bleeding. They will also want to be informed about any underlying medical conditions or medications that are currently being taken, and whether there is any history of similar problems, and if so, how they were treated.
To understand problems with yeast infections and vaginal discharge .