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Check your symptomsThe Surprising Truth About Normal vs. Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
May 24, 2023
This post explores the difference between normal and abnormal vaginal discharge. Many women are curious to understand this as it is a common (and natural) event in the reproductive system.
So read on if you want to know what’s normal or not, what it looks/smells like and what this could mean for your overall health.
Vaginal discharge is a fluid material that your body makes. It’s normally produced by the cells of the vagina and the cervix. It helps to clean the vagina, maintain its pH balance, and keep it free of infection.
However, abnormal vaginal discharge may indicate an underlying infection or other medical condition.
So here are some differences between normal and abnormal vaginal discharge:
Here are a few examples of abnormal vaginal discharge and what they could mean.
A vaginal discharge that smells fishy, especially after sex – may suggest an infection known as Bacterial vaginosis.
A thick, white, itchy discharge like cottage cheese may suggest a fungal Thrush infection.
If your vaginal discharge is green, yellow or frothy, it may indicate a type of STI known as Trichomoniasis
You may have a discharge that develops with pelvic pain or bleeding between your periods or after sex. This can suggest STIs like Chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
When you develop a discharge accompanied by blisters or sores, there’s a chance this may be caused by Genital herpes.
Ok, so now you understand the difference between a normal and abnormal vaginal discharge.
Suppose you are experiencing abnormal vaginal discharge or any other symptoms.
In that case, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Editing By AskAwayHealth Team
Disclaimer
All AskAwayHealth articles are written by practising Medical Practitioners on various healthcare conditions to provide evidence-based guidance and to help promote quality healthcare. The advice in our material is not meant to replace the management of your specific condition by a qualified healthcare practitioner.
To discuss your condition, please contact a health practitioner here.
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