Vaginal discharge is a women’s health problem that most women will experience at some point during their lifetime. Although a small amount of vaginal discharge is normal at certain times throughout the month, there are a number of instances in which it can be a very serious problem. Here are some of the common causes of vaginal discharge.
Vaginal Infections
Vaginal discharge is known to be a symptom of a few different types of vaginal infections. Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis are the vaginal infections that you will want your doctor to test you for. Although these are all infections that can be passed through sexual intercourse by someone who has the infection, there are known to be other causes of these infections. Burning and itching are common symptoms of these infections. It is important for these vaginal infections to be treated, or it is likely that they will reoccur.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
There are a wide variety of STDs which are known to cause vaginal discharge. Some of the STDs that you will want to get tested for if vaginal discharge has been a problem for you include herpes, genital warts, gonorrhea, HPV infection, and chlamydia. Whether you have protected or unprotected sex, there is a possibility that vaginal discharge may be affecting you due to STDs. If you have experienced itching, burning, or other symptoms related to sexually transmitted diseases, it is a good idea to get tested. Keep in mind that if the vaginal discharge is an unusual color, such as yellow or green, it is very likely that it is due to a STD. It is important to your general health that you pay attention to these signs.
Cervical or Vaginal Cancer
Both cervical and vaginal cancer have vaginal discharge as a sign. Vaginal cancer is incredibly rare. Cervical cancer is generally caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which can be spread through sexual intercourse - even when you use protection. If you notice persistent or severe vaginal discharge, it is a good idea to tell your doctor that you are worried about the risk of cancer. As with all other types of cancer, early detection is a main key to successfully treating the condition, so it is important to never take this symptom lightly.
When to Visit a Doctor
It is never fun for any woman to experience vaginal discharge. Although there are certain times when a woman may be more likely to notice some vaginal discharge, such as during pregnancy or prior to menstruation, it may not be normal for you to experience. It can be somewhat challenging to determine when you should visit a doctor if you are experiencing vaginal discharge. There are a number of instances when you should do so. If the vaginal discharge is very heavy, lasts longer than a week, or is an unusual color, it is time for you to visit the doctor. Be sure to have your doctor test you for infections, sexually transmitted diseases, and any other conditions that your doctor feels the vaginal discharge may be caused by. Diagnosing the problem early can be essential to your health.. Although it is likely nothing serious, you can never be too careful.
Excellent post.
I had no idea that discharge could be a sign of an STD.
Very informative and well written.
Thanks
Comment by Fay — September 29, 2009 @ 4:47 am