Vaginal discharge
Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge (/vəˈdʒaɪnəl dɪsˈtʃɑːrdʒ/) is a term used to describe a variety of substances that can be expelled from the vagina. It is a common symptom in women and can be a sign of various medical conditions, ranging from normal physiological changes to serious diseases.
Etymology
The term "vaginal discharge" is derived from the Latin words "vagina", meaning "sheath", and "discharge", meaning "to send out". It was first used in medical literature in the 18th century.
Types of Vaginal Discharge
There are several types of vaginal discharge, each with its own characteristics and potential causes. These include:
- Clear and watery: This type of discharge is usually healthy and is a sign of regular cleansing of the vagina.
- White: White discharge can be normal, but if it is clumpy and accompanied by itching, it may be a sign of a yeast infection.
- Yellow or green: This can be a sign of a bacterial infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection.
- Brown or bloody: This can be a sign of menstrual bleeding, but if it occurs at other times, it could indicate a more serious problem, such as a miscarriage or cervical cancer.
Causes
Vaginal discharge can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, infections, and certain medications. Some of the most common causes include:
- Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can cause changes in vaginal discharge.
- Infections: Both sexually transmitted infections and other types of infections can cause changes in vaginal discharge.
- Medications: Certain medications, including antibiotics and hormonal contraceptives, can affect the balance of bacteria in the vagina and cause changes in discharge.
Treatment
The treatment for vaginal discharge depends on its cause. In some cases, it may not require treatment at all. In other cases, treatment may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or other interventions.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vaginal discharge
- Wikipedia's article - Vaginal discharge
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