The vagina is a delicate, self-cleansing part of all female reproductive organs that may often not function, as it usually does, in some women. There are lot many vaginal problems that a woman can encounter at some point in her life. These could arise due to various reasons like shifts in her menses, having sex with a new male partner, and also from her birth control. Usually, these vaginal issues are associated with symptoms like a strong unpleasant vaginal odor, unusual discharge of the vagina, or a vaginal sensation like itching, burning, or any other discomfort. [1]

It is very common for women to invite vaginal infections and suffer from Vaginitis- a set of conditions that can lead to infection and inflammation of the vagina. Some vaginal infections come as Sexually Transmitted Infections while quite common ones do not. Moreover, some women are more susceptible to vaginal infections than others.

There are plenty of causes behind vaginal infections. Some factors can alter the vaginal environment and allow the overgrowth of bacteria and yeast, thereby causing infection or there could be a sexually transmitted infection like a parasite. This means the vagina needs full-fledged attention to prevent much-dreaded and recurring vaginal infections. To treat these vaginal infections better, the sufferer and the concerned physician/gynecologist must be aware of what type of infection she is having. So, here are 7 common types of vaginal infections that every female must know. [2, 3]

1. Yeast Infections
   Yeast or fungal infections in females are most commonly seen vaginal infections triggered due to uncontrolled diabetes, menstruation, pregnancy, lower immunity, and the use of oral contraceptives. These infections lead to irritation, cottage cheese-like discharge, an extremely discomforting itching/burning sensation, and sometimes inflammation of the vagina and even the vulva. Candida albicans are the most common yeast species that harmlessly reside in the vagina in small numbers and cause infection when their overgrowth occurs. For some women, yeast vaginal infections could develop when they resume sexual activity following a period of sexual abstinence and even through oral sex.[1, 2, 3]
2. Bacterial Vaginosis
   Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal infection caused by a disruption in the vaginal balance of good and bad bacteria. This means the overgrowth of infectious bacteria (mostly Gardnerella) and lowering of levels of beneficial bacteria (like lactobacilli) in the vagina. It is usually because of poor hygiene practices in the genital area like not keeping the vagina clean during menstrual periods and not changing undies often. This condition is associated with vaginal inflammation, fishy odor, the burning sensation felt while urinating, abnormal vaginal discharge (thick or whitish/ slippery or clear), and pain or itching in the vagina. Women who are pregnant, sexually active, or have been using intrauterine devices are more likely to suffer from BV.[1, 2, 3]
3. Trichomoniasis
   It is a sexually transmitted vaginal infection caused by a parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. Its symptoms include soreness, redness, and itching or burning sensation and these may vary from one person to another. Some women may also report little discomfort while urinating and a shift in vaginal odor and discharge. However, these can surely be prevented by avoiding its contraction by refraining from sexual intercourse. However, if a woman goes for regular vaginal health check-ups, has good communication with her partner, and even has long-term usage of condoms, there is minimal chance of having trichomoniasis or any other sexually-transmitted infection.[1, 2, 3]
4. Genital Herpes
   It is a sexually transmitted infection caused by two viruses: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)-1 and HSV-2. Most women who contract this condition do not experience any symptoms while some might develop herpes sores in their genitals, mouth, or their rectum. The herpetic sores are fluid-filled bumps (painful blisters) that can rupture and ooze fluid to spread infection. [1]
5. Human Papillomavirus
   It is a sexually transmitted illness that can result in the appearance of warts on the genitals or the skin around the genitals, based on the kind of HPV strain contracted by women. This type of vaginal infection is non-curable and many women can carry this infection without experiencing any symptoms. However, some HPV forms are preventable through vaccination. [1]
6. Chlamydia
   This is a mostly diagnosed vaginal infection among young women contracted through sexual intercourse. It is an STI caused by a specific bacterial strain called Chlamydia trachomatis. Those who contract Chlamydia mostly don’t experience any symptoms but some may have a burning sensation while peeing and even notice abnormal vaginal discharge. This bacterial infection can even affect the rectum of the affected women and result in rectal discharge, bleeding, and pain. It is contagious as it can easily spread through sex. [1]
7. Gonorrhea
   It is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium, Neisseria gonorrhea. It can infect both males and females, most often the urethra, throat, or rectum. In women, it can affect the vagina and even the cervix. The signs and symptoms of gonorrhea in women include painful urination, excessive vaginal discharge, pelvic or abdominal pain, and vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse or between periods. This infection can be treated with antibiotics. However, if the sexually transmitted disease has resulted in permanent damage, antibiotics treatment would not be able to reverse any of these effects. [1]

The Bottom Line

All vaginal infections are treatable with medications (antibiotics or antifungals), but it is crucial to identify the sort of infection or any other illness that a woman has so that she could receive proper treatment. To keep vaginal infections at bay, it is very important to keep caring for the vagina. Females must wear cotton clean underwear, wipe their vagina from front to back after using the washroom, and even follow healthy menstrual hygiene. It is also recommended that they keep their genitals optimally healthy. [2]

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References:

1. https://www.toplinemd.com/andrew-krinsky-md/10-common-vaginal-diseases-and-are-they-contagious/
2. https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/types-of-vaginal-infections-you-can-get-and-what-can-you-do/
3. https://www.everydayhealth.com/news/vaginal-infection-types/

It is not uncommon to experience vaginal discharge, which hormonal shifts, infections, or other factors may bring on. Problems with vaginal discharge can be cured using a variety of medical therapies as well as home remedies. [1, 2, 5]

About Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a clear, white, or off-white fluid from your cervix. It cleans and lubricates the vagina and aids in the fight against harmful germs and infections. It primarily comprises cells and bacteria produced by the uterus, cervix, and vagina. Although vaginal discharge is a natural and typical process, variations in the discharge can indicate infection or sickness. [1, 3, 5]

What is Considered to be Normal?

A healthy woman’s discharge from her vagina should be transparent or white, varying in texture from watery and sticky to gooey, thick, and pasty. It shouldn’t smell unpleasant, and its thickness may vary throughout the menstrual cycle. Some women experience heavy vaginal flow, while others experience a little less. Changes in the vaginal discharge that occur suddenly may indicate a problem. How much vaginal discharge you experience might vary depending on several circumstances, including ovulation, pregnancy, and the use of birth control tablets. [1, 2]

Types of Vaginal Discharge

Types of vaginal discharge are categorized by color and consistency.

• White: White discharge is common at the beginning or end of the menstrual cycle. This discharge is thick, sticky, and odorless.
• Clear and watery: Ovulation causes clear, wetter discharge. Sexually stimulated or pregnant women may also notice increased discharge.
• Clear and stretchy: Clear, stretchy mucous discharge indicates ovulation.
• Brown or bloody: Occurs during or after your menstrual cycle.
• Yellow or green: This may not signal a health concern because it might turn yellow in the air. Darker yellow or green discharge should be consulted with a healthcare professional, especially if thick, chunky, or odorous. [1, 2, 4, 5]

Causes of Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a healthy biological function caused by natural changes in estrogen levels. Ovulation, sexual stimulation, birth control medications, and pregnancy can all cause an increase in menstrual flow.

Changes in the vagina’s bacterial balance can have a negative impact on the color, odor, and consistency of vaginal discharge. Such infections are more frequent when the number of dangerous bacteria increases around the genital area.

Here are some of the possible vaginal infections:

Bacterial vaginosis: Too many vaginal bacteria cause it, and it sometimes spreads through sexual contact.

Trichomoniasis: Sexually transmitted infection (STI) that you can get through sexual contact with an infected individual.

Yeast infection: It develops when a certain type of fungus (candida) grows unchecked in the vagina.

Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia: Common STIs you can get from having sex with an infected person.

Pelvic inflammatory disease: When sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are not treated, bacteria can spread from the vagina to the cervix and up to other reproductive organs.

Human papillomavirus or cervical cancer: This sexually transmitted disease can cause cervical cancer. [1, 3, 4, 5]

Signs of Vaginal Infection

A vaginal discharge does not necessarily indicate an infection. If you have any other symptoms of unprotected sexual activity (sexual activity without a condom), you should consult a doctor.

• Vaginal itching, burning, or irritation
• Thick, white vaginal discharge
• Change in discharge attributes
• Painful intercourse and urination
• Pain or tenderness in your lower abdomen
  Swelling.
• Pelvic pain or pain while peeing. [1, 3, 4, 7]

Vaginal Infection Treatment

Most vaginal infections aren’t too bad and can be treated with the medicine you get from your doctor. If you don’t get help, these symptoms could worsen or make you more likely to have problems in the future. Each illness has its way of treating it. For example, yeast infections are often treated with antifungal creams or gels in the vagina; bacterial vaginosis can be treated by using antibiotic pills or creams. Most of the time, antibiotics and antiprotozoal medication treat trichomoniasis.

Depending on the examination, a diagnosis and quick treatment may be possible in a small number of instances. On the other hand, the doctor could advise waiting to start therapy until the outcomes of the physical examinations are available.

Treatment for white discharge issues is mostly risk-free. However, several medications used for this treatment can potentially cause unwanted side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, rashes or itching in the vaginal area, a terrible taste in the patient’s mouth, constipation, and diarrhea.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are contagious and might be more challenging to cure. Your healthcare professional must be aware of what to do because of this. Every woman who engages in sexual activity has to see her doctor at least once a year. [6, 7]

How can you prevent Vaginal Diseases?

Here are a few suggestions to avoid the chances of vaginal diseases:

• Gently wash the genital area with warm water. Cleaning chemicals within the vagina might upset its pH balance.
• Avoid scented cleaners and douches. To minimize vaginal infections, avoid scented sprays and bubble baths.
• Avoid tight clothing and wear 100% cotton underwear.
• Regularly bathe with light soap or water. No bubble baths.
• Avoid perfumed vaginal sprays.
• Use white toilet paper.
• Always wipe front-to-back after using the restroom.
• Before contacting your vaginal region, wash and dry your hands.
• Urinate after intercourse to avoid urinary tract infections (UTIs). [1, 2, 4, 5, 7]

Putting it All Together

The good news is that abnormal vaginal discharge can be treated in most cases. Vaginal infection can be partially diagnosed based on the discharge’s color, odor, and consistency and can be avoided with regular self-care. Monitoring your vaginal discharge can help you keep tabs on your body’s normal processes and spot any deviations promptly.

A healthcare provider should be consulted about anything out of the norm. Remember that the long-term consequences of most illnesses can be avoided if recognized and treated quickly enough.

When to See a Physician

Thick, white vaginal discharge is usually always an indication of the health of reproductive organs. Occasionally, though, the discharge may indicate an underlying health condition.

If you suffer any of the following symptoms together with an atypical vaginal discharge, you must contact a doctor:

• Pain/itching/discomfort
• Bleeding, missed menstruation rashes or sores combined with vaginal discomfort, a burning sensation when urinating or engaging in sexual activity a strong and persistent vaginal odor.
• As long as your vaginal discharge does not match the healthy criteria, one must take effective measures to maintain vaginal health.

Avoid disrupting the vagina’s pH balance by avoiding soaps, perfumed washes, douches, and other things that remove the vagina’s natural moisture and defenses. The vagina is intended to prevent new infections and care for itself. Therefore, the importance of healthy vaginal discharge in this process is crucial. [1,2,4,5,7]

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References

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/4719-vaginal-discharge
2. https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/vaginal-discharge-whats-abnormal
3. https://www.everydayhealth.com/vaginal-discharge/guide/
4. https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-discharge#home-remedies
5. https://healthlibrary.askapollo.com/vaginal-discharge/
6. https://www.lybrate.com/topic/white-discharge-problem
7. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/vaginal-discharge
   https://www.urinarytractsupport.net.

Are you experiencing vaginal soreness, itching, or other discomfort? It could be a sign of vaginal infection.

A vaginal infection, also known as vaginitis, can make the vagina uncomfortable or change the smell and appearance of discharge. These symptoms can be brought on by medication, contraception, sexual activity, and other factors.

Bacteria, fungi, or irritants from soap or birth control frequently bring on infections. If you have vaginal discomfort, it might be tempting to self-diagnose, but vaginitis isn’t always curable with over-the-counter medications. [1, 3, 4]

What is a Vaginal Infection (Vaginitis)?

Infection or inflammation of the vagina is known as vaginitis. It can be caused by a number of different organisms like bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses that live in and around the vagina and vulva. These organisms typically dwell in the vagina without causing any injury. However, unchecked growth is possible if the vagina’s normal, healthy settings are disrupted.

These infections have several causes and are fairly common during reproductive years or late teens to early 40s.

Vaginitis is not a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), but sexual activity may contribute. Soap, bubble baths, personal hygiene products, detergents, and fabric conditioners can irritate the sensitive skin surrounding your vulva and vagina skin. It can create symptoms such as itching, but it can also induce an infection. Other vaginal infections are sexually transmitted (STIs); therefore, you can get them from unprotected sexual contact. [1, 2, 3, 5]

Types of Vaginal Infections

In basic terms, vaginal infections occur when bacteria and yeast in your vagina are out of equilibrium due to certain factors.

The next sections discuss common vaginal infection causes, symptoms, and treatments.

1. Bacterial Infections:
Overgrowth of vaginal bacteria causes Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Sexual contact, including hand-to-genital, oral, and penetrating vaginal sex, can lead to bacteria overgrowth and raise bacterial vaginosis risk.

Bacterial Infections Symptoms

Although not everyone infected with bacterial vaginosis will show symptoms, those who do may suffer the following:

• Thin gray or white, fishy-smelling vagina discharge
• A burning sensation while urinating
• Pain during sexual activity
• Itching.

Bacterial Infections Treatment: Bacterial vaginosis can clear up by itself, but it may return. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic tablets, gel, or lotion for treatment. [1, 3, 4, 5]

2. Yeast Infections:

Fungus called “Candida albicans” causes yeast infections. Antibiotics, hormonal changes, a weak immune system, and stress can impact vaginal antifungal microorganisms, leading to yeast overgrowth and causing yeast infections.

Yeast Infections Symptoms

Some symptoms of a yeast infection include:

• Irritation, itching, swelling, and burning in and around the vagina
• Increased vaginal discharge, thick and white.

Yeast Infections Treatment: Antifungal drugs can cure yeast infections. Antifungal tablets or vaginal creams can be used for the treatment. [1, 3, 4, 5]

3. Trichomoniasis:

The protozoan parasite called “Trichomonas vaginalis” is responsible for the highly prevalent sexually transmitted infection known as Trichomoniasis or trich.

Trichomoniasis Symptoms

70% of people have no symptoms. Some people get symptoms in 5–28 days, while others take longer.

• Soreness and itching around the vulva
• Increase in discharge volume
• A change in discharge color; yellow or white
• Pain during urination
• Foul-smelling and possibly frothy vaginal discharge.

Trichomoniasis Treatment: A person can take prescribed antibiotics to treat Trichomonas vaginalis. [1, 3, 4, 5]

4. Chlamydia:

Most commonly reported STI, caused by a type of bacteria. Chlamydia rarely causes symptoms. But if you do, you may notice a few symptoms, as mentioned.

Chlamydia Symptoms

• White, green, or yellow discharge
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Bleeding between your periods or after sex
• Burning sensation during urination
• Pain during sexual intercourse and urination.

Chlamydia Treatment: If so, doctors will prescribe antibiotics. It’s recommended not to have intercourse for at least a week after the treatment. [1, 3, 4, 5]

5. Gonorrhea:

Bacteria-caused STI. It can cause infertility and severe pelvic pain if left untreated. If you get sick, symptoms usually develop within ten days.

Gonorrhea Symptoms

• Green, white, or yellow vaginal discharge
• Severe pelvic pain
• Swelling and pain in the labia
• Increased vaginal discharge than normal
• Pain around your lower abdomen causing discomfort during urination
• May get bleeding between periods.

Gonorrhea Treatment: Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics. It’s recommended not to have intercourse for at least a week after the treatment. [1, 3, 4, 5]

6. Genital Herpes:

It’s caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and commonly spreads through sexual contact.

Genital Herpes Symptoms

• Pain while urinating
• Fever and headaches
• Blisters
• Soreness on genitals
• Swelling.

Genital Herpes Treatment: Consult your doctor for advice on relieving discomfort and speeding the healing process of blisters by washing the affected area with plain or salt water and using petroleum jelly or mild anesthetic gel. A person without symptoms is nonetheless infectious. Antiviral medication can help manage herpes symptoms. [1, 3, 4, 5]

7. Genital Warts:

Commonly spread through sexual contact and caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Genital Warts Symptoms:

• Itching or discomfort and bleeding
• Small growths on or around genitals.

Genital Warts Treatment: Genital warts have no cure, like herpes. Doctors can eliminate noticeable warts through surgery or topical solutions that people can apply themselves. [1, 3, 4, 5]

Complications

Even if a vaginal infection is treated, the patient may develop PID or postpartum endometriosis. PID causes inflammation in the womb, ovary, and tube, whereas the uterine lining grows outside the uterus in postpartum endometritis. ‘These infections can also influence pregnancy by causing complications’, says the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.[3]

The Bottom Line

Yeast, bacteria, viruses, and irritants are possible causes of vaginal infections. They may cause discomfort and limit a person’s ability to engage in everyday activities. Suppose a person feels any signs of an infection, detects a change in the vaginal discharge, or has a sexual partner with an STI. In that case, it is crucial to visit a doctor as a doctor will be better able to help you discover a treatment and avoid more infections.

Home remedies can sometimes help vaginal infections heal, but you can’t always treat a vaginal infection at home. In addition, prescribed antibiotics or antifungal drugs are necessary for some infections.

While vaginal infections can be uncomfortable, they normally aren’t life-threatening until left untreated. In most cases, rapid recovery occurs after a proper diagnosis. [1, 5]

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Reference

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-infection#see-a-doctor
2. https://www.everydayhealth.com/news/vaginal-infection-types/
3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vaginal-infections
4. https://www.solacewomenscare.com/blog/different-types-of-vaginal-infections-and-what-you-can-do-about-them
5. https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/womens-health/vaginal-infections
6. https://www.urinarytractsupport.net.

Women are significantly more likely to catch illnesses like dysentery, typhoid, urinary tract infection, and vulvar and vaginal infections after using public restrooms, which are in abject disrepair. [1]

Yeast, germs, viruses, and irritants can cause vaginal infections that are mostly present in public restrooms. They may cause discomfort and limit a person’s ability to engage in everyday activities. [1, 2, 7]

After using public restrooms, women are most likely to complain of vaginal infections.
Typically, a lady might talk about a problem with her doctor that she thinks she acquired from using a public restroom.

The following are some signs of a “vaginal infection” she might have:

• Burning or discomfort while urinating
• Whether she is passing pee or not, it can occasionally be an uncomfortable experience.
• Itching in the vagina and around the vulva
• An unpleasant or disagreeable odor emanating from the vagina
• Having a painful sexual experience
• Bleeding or spotting in the genital area outside of a menstrual cycle
• Abnormality in the color of the vaginal discharge
• An excessive amount of vaginal discharge. [1, 2, 3, 9]

7 Vaginal Issues a Woman Encounters while Using Public Toilets. Following are the Types of Vaginal Infections that Women Faces:

1. Urinary Tract Infection: Urinary tract infection, sometimes known as a UTI, is a painful condition that can affect women. The problem is that many bacteria and pathogens congregate on the tissue and toilet seat. These bacteria destroy the purity of genital areas by invading the vaginal biome. Due to weakened immunity, a woman becomes infected and experiences symptoms, including burning while urinating, pain around the vagina, and pain in the lower abdomen. [3]

After that, Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) develops. Because, of some nasty microorganisms, a public restroom can never be a haven for the vagina. Gardnerella vaginalis, the most common microorganism of them all, is the cause of BV. This infection can also make a woman more susceptible if she sits on an infected pot. [3]

2. Bacterial Vaginosis: It is easy to confuse a urinary tract infection with bacterial vaginosis. Although a woman may have been misled by the overlap of BV and UTI symptoms, the two conditions are highly distinct. Because of this, a woman will need to monitor her symptoms and let her doctor know so that they can provide an accurate diagnosis. Women who have BV may have a thin, watery vaginal discharge. But in the case of a UTI, this symptom is uncommon. A lady will not have frequent urination if she has BV. [4]

3. Yeast Infections: Candida, mainly Candida albicans, is the cause of vaginal yeast infections in females. When a Candida species infects the mucosal lining of the vagina, an inflammatory reaction occurs, leading to yeast infections. Yeast infection signs and symptoms include vulvar and vaginal discomfort, itching, and burning with thick, sticky, white discharge, as well as swelling and flushing. People can use antifungal medications to treat yeast infections because a fungus causes them. Antifungal drugs can be used orally or topically applied to the vagina. These two choices are both sold over the counter. [5, 7]

4. Non-Infectious Vaginitis: Irritations frequently cause non-infectious vaginitis. A response may occur if certain substances come into contact with the vagina. Swelling, inflammation, and flushing of the vulva and vagina, as well as discomfort, burning, and stinging sensations on the vulva, are signs of an allergy or sensitivity to stimuli. Avoiding known triggers is the primary treatment method for vaginal discomfort brought on by irritants. A doctor may prescribe a patch test to determine what causes an allergic reaction to treat vaginal dryness and itching. They will apply various compounds to the skin during a patch test to see which ones result in an allergic reaction. [6]

5. Trichomoniasis: An unpleasant fishy odor and vaginal discomfort are typical signs of this condition. A woman could also experience edema, irritation, and inflammation in her vagina and vulva in addition to a greenish-yellow, foamy discharge. Trichomoniasis also causes lower abdominal pain, burning after urination, and pain and burning during vaginal sex. [7, 8]

6. Atrophic Vaginitis: Although this is not a true infection, it can increase the risk of UTIs and vaginal infections. A woman may experience symptoms of atrophic vaginitis, such as vaginal itching, burning, dryness, and changes in discharge, similar to other infections. [8]

7. Viral Infections: Bathrooms are breeding grounds for germs and viruses in the waste of diseased people. Following viruses can be present in public restrooms when proper sanitization and disinfection does not perform:

(a) Norovirus: “Food poisoning” or “the stomach flu” are two prevalent names for norovirus. After catching the virus, symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain can appear as soon as 12 hours later. Antibiotics are ineffective against norovirus, but taking proper precautions lets the virus die in two days. As this virus dehydrates the body, dehydration is a common side effect. To replace depleted electrolytes and rehydrate, consume water and sports drinks. [8, 9, 10]

(b) Shigellosis Virus: After being seeded, the shigellosis virus can survive for up to two days in public restrooms. Virus transmission occurs via feces contamination. This virus most frequently grows in daycare or other childcare facilities where staff members change diapers and potty-train young children. The symptoms, which include fever, stomach pain, and bloody diarrhea, are severe. The feces of the infected are still infectious, even in the absence of symptoms. [10]

Best Practices For Preventing Vaginal Infections In Public Toilets:

1. Maintain as much distance as possible between the body and the toilet seat of the commode. Try half-sitting while squatting. If a woman finds that difficult, wipe the toilet seat with sanitizer and cover it with tissues before using it. [2]
2. It is imperative to wash hands before and after using the restroom and flush the toilet. Washing in an intimate area in a public restroom is not good because it greatly increases the risk of infection. Just pat the area with tissue paper to keep everything dry and clean. [2]
3. Always have tissues and hand sanitizer when one leaves the house so that females can wipe their hands before and after peeing and keep from touching anything in a public restroom. It is also advised to use stand-and-pee gadgets to combat the elements and illnesses by peeing like males. [2]

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References

1. https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/harmful-effects-of-using-intimate-wipes/
2. https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/public-toilet-hygiene-tips-for-every-woman/
3. https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/can-sitting-on-the-toilet-seat-with-tissues-give-you-vaginal-infection/
4. https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/how-to-treat-uti-at-home-5-herbal-teas-that-can-help/
5. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vaginal-infections#yeast-infections
6. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vaginal-infections#noninfectious-vaginitis
7. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vaginal-infections#summary
8. https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-infection#symptoms
9. https://askawayhealth.org/preventing-ladies-toilet-infections/
10. https://enviro-master.com/commercial-cleaning-information/5-dangerous-viruses-you-can-get-from-a-public-restroom/

Every day, a typical woman’s vagina secretes a clear, white fluid called vaginal discharge. This discharge is composed of mucus, a mixture of cells, and fluids from the inside of the vagina and the cervix. The vaginal or cervical fluids carry the dead cells and even bacteria that are passed out of the human body.

A vaginal discharge is a normal occurrence for women and is even healthy. It keeps the vagina clean, lubricated, or moisturized, and helps prevent vaginal infections. In a normal vagina, the moisture, pH, and bacteria are in balance. However, this balance is sensitive to outside triggers and internal body changes. [1]

A vaginal discharge even plays a role in promoting pregnancy. The increase in estrogen hormone results in watery and less acidic cervical mucus which can help nourish the sperm. At the time of ovulation, a vaginal discharge having fluids from the cervix can serve as a guide for the sperm, to help them easily swim through the cervix up to the uterus, where they get fertilized with the egg. This is when a woman has a slippery, stretchy type of vaginal discharge. A woman is said to be in her most fertile days when cervical mucus appears with a raw-egg-white texture. Following ovulation, this white discharge in women from vagina becomes thicker and drier which makes it hard for sperm to travel. Therefore, by keeping an eye on changes in vaginal discharge a woman and her partner can get to know when is ovulation taking place and what’s the right time to conceive a child. [1, 2]

Different Types of Vaginal Discharge, Their Causes, and What They Indicate

The vaginal discharge comes in different colors, odors, and consistency. Although a normal vaginal discharge is white or clear-ish, it’s not necessary that what’s normal for a woman will be the same for another woman. Some changes in vaginal discharge are normal, and there is various white discharge reason. There is no need to be alarmed if a woman is experiencing more vaginal discharge than normal as this happens when she is ovulating, lactating, or sexually aroused. Furthermore, the vaginal discharge may seem different when a woman is pregnant or has been unhygienic. Therefore, every woman needs to keep a track of their typical vaginal discharge color, consistency, volume, and odor, so that they can notice when something seems abnormal. Also, this way, the doctors can record their bodily changes and diagnose if there are any problems. [1, 2, 3]

Here are some of the unusual vaginal discharge colors, their reason for the occurrence, and what they mean:

1. White and Lumpy- This type of vaginal discharge appears like cottage cheese. It could be a sign of yeast infection caused by an unbalanced pH level of the vagina. Women who have been taking antibiotics, have acquired STIs through unprotected sex, or have experienced hormonal fluctuations during their pregnancy or even menopause can get a white and lumpy vaginal discharge. Typically, such yeast infections are accompanied by itching and burning sensations around the vulva and vagina.
2. Grey and Cloudy- This vaginal discharge color along with the “fishy” smell is likely an indication of bacterial vaginosis- a condition experienced by females due to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria inside the vagina.
3. Yellow or Green- This is an indication of a bacterial infection or some sexually transmitted disease (STD). The STDs associated with symptoms of discolored vaginal discharge include Chlamydia, trichomoniasis, or gonorrhea. Typically, the yellow or green vaginal discharge has a foul smell and when there is this discharge, a woman would experience an itching or burning sensation in her vagina or vulva.
4. Red or Brown- If this happens when there is no menstrual flow in women, this could mean irregular menses or spotting. The vaginal spotting or irregular menstrual periods could be linked to the formation of ovarian cysts, fibroids, or polyps and the occurrence of medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or even thyroid disease. An evaluation of this vaginal discharge by the healthcare provider could only help to identify the cause and determine its treatment. [1]

When Should a Woman See a Healthcare Professional?

If a woman experiences any change in their vaginal discharge that makes her worried, then she must talk with a doctor as soon as possible. This is when the vaginal discharge color, consistency, odor, or amount changes. A doctor visit must be made at the earliest if the abnormal vaginal discharge is observed alongside other symptoms such as:

• Pain while urinating
• Irritation around the vagina
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Increased urination
• Pain during penetrative vaginal sex or in the abdomen
• Unexplained weight loss
• Pain or discomfort between menstrual periods, after penetrative vaginal sex, or post-menopause. [4]

How can Unhealthy/Abnormal Vaginal Discharges be Treated/Prevented?

The treatment of abnormal vaginal discharge depends upon the reason behind its occurrence. For instance, a yeast infection is usually treated with an antifungal medication in form of cream or gel that is applied directly into the vagina. Antibiotic pills or creams/ointments can be prescribed for bacterial vaginosis or any other bacterial infection. Trichomoniasis (a parasitic infection) can be treated with drugs such as metro-nidazole or tini-dazole.

Unusual vaginal discharges as a result of vaginal infections can be prevented or even managed by following some tips:

• Avoid douching (washing/cleaning inside of the vagina with water or a mixture of fluids), using feminine sprays, scented wipes, or toilet par; and having hot water baths or bubble baths.
• Have protected and safe sexual intercourse through barrier protection methods.
• Maintain overall hygiene of the vagina by regularly washing it with a gentle, mild, non-scented soap and warm water on the outer area. Do not put soap inside the vagina.
• After using the washroom, always wipe from front to back to avoid bacteria entry into the vagina and causing an infection.
• Do not use panty liners, wear 100% cotton underpants to ensure proper air circulation, and avoid wearing very tight clothing.
• If urinary health does not seem right, take the VitaPost Urinary Tract Support supplement which is a natural probiotic and prebiotic. Probiotic helps ensure a healthy balance of pathogenic and naturally neutral bacteria. The supplement has three main ingredients Pacran, DE111, and PreforPro- all of which help in improving urinary health, digestive health, and immune system. Therefore, the chances of having vaginal infections can be less. [1, 2, 3]

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References:

1. . https://axiawh.com/resources/vaginal-discharge-whats-normal-whats-not/
2. https://embrywomenshealth.com/types-of-vaginal-discharge-causes-care/
3. https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/vaginal-discharge-whats-abnormal
4. https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-discharge#medical-attention