Discharge and irritation. What are the vaginal discharge. Profuse unclear discharge

A woman's careful and attentive attitude to her health will help avoid many problems, prevent serious and minor violations at their initial stage of development. You can notice changes in women's health by the nature of the mucus secreted from the genitals, since it is mucus that is an indicator of pathological changes and the reason for a visit to a gynecologist.

Vaginal mucus is common to everyone. This is a characteristic feature of a woman's body. As a rule, mucus of various types from the vagina is the norm and has an explainable origin.

Normal discharge has the following signs:

May be transparent, white or red in color;
Does not cause redness, itching or burning;
Odorless;
Have a small amount;
They pass asymptomatically - in the absence of fever, pain and discomfort.

It should be noted that the norm is when a small amount. Abundant discharge should be a wake-up call for a woman.

The mucous fluid as a whole is a sign of the normal functioning of the woman's appendages. This is the standard metric for any age range.

Starting from the 1st month of life, every representative of the weak half of humanity has mucus secretions, which are caused by hormonal changes. In the first month of life, mucus is a residual phenomenon of the destruction of maternal hormones.

By the maturation of their own sex hormones, mucus reappears - more often, during puberty.

Typically, mucus production occurs in the year before the onset of menstruation. By the age of 8, mucus looks like rice water with a sour smell.

As soon as the menstrual cycle begins to establish, the discharge will become cyclical, their appearance changes. In the first half of the cycle, mucus is usually moderate, but by the second phase, its consistency thickens.

It is customary to separate the discharge depending on their type:

White. They can also be called leucorrhoea. The causes of their occurrence can be vaginitis, colpitis, adnexitis. They also observe their appearance when taking oral contraceptives, with stagnation in the pelvic region, with violation of the rules of personal hygiene, as well as with a sedentary lifestyle;
Transparent. Depend on the amount of hormones in the body, as well as on the phase of the menstrual cycle. Their presence indicates the work of the ovaries. The composition of such secretions includes fragments of cells and lymph transudate, as well as microorganisms, mucus from the cervical canal and residues from the work of the sebaceous and sweat glands;
Mucous membranes. Such discharge is not a pathology as long as it does not have color and smell. Otherwise, it is necessary to pass a comprehensive analysis and consult with your doctor;
Watery.

With normal development, discharge that does not require intervention from a specialist may be:

Lean, in the form of a creamy or jelly-like substance. Inherent in the second phase of the cycle;
Transparent discharge, inherent in the phase before ovulation;
Mucus with bloody streaks - inherent in the period after ovulation.
Creamy mucous clots - present before menstruation;
White clots - when taking oral contraceptives;
Pink ichor - lochia, inherent in the postpartum period;
Creamy discharge from unprotected intercourse or when using a condom. Such discharge is odorless and does not cause itching.

Discharge in the form of mucus in women: causes

There can be many reasons for the occurrence of discharge. Therefore, you should distinguish between discharge by the type of their consistency, as well as depending on the smell and color. So it is customary to distinguish:

You should also know that mucus is the norm for:

first sexual intercourse;
when changing a sexual partner;
with arousal before sexual intercourse, as well as with unprotected intercourse.

Leucorrhoea may stand out:

if there is a foreign object in the vagina;
with advanced diabetes mellitus;
with the development of polyps;
in the presence of other benign formations in the uterus;
with erosive wounds of the cervix, as well as cervitis, salpingo-oophoritis, adnexitis;
with the development of a malignant process in the uterine cavity.

It is noteworthy that the cancerous process in the uterus takes place under a transparent and watery discharge. Moreover, such discharge has an unpleasant odor, with a slight admixture of blood.

The inflamed endometrium, as well as the mucous membrane of the cervix, can develop mucus with a thin, watery consistency. This will make the surface of the gasket dirty.

Why do women have copious clots of mucus

Mucus is produced in the cervix by a special gland. As a rule, such production has a specific smell. Depending on the hormonal background and the work of the ovaries, as well as the menstrual cycle, the consistency of the secretions and their nature also vary.

Abundant clots of mucus are cause for concern, since this is a fact that confirms the presence of various kinds of microorganisms in the vagina. In parallel with the release of clots, pain, burning or itching may occur.

It has been confirmed by numerous studies that the penetration of opportunistic microorganisms into the microflora of the female vagina is expressed by the presence of abundant mucus secretion. Such microorganisms are prone to rapid reproduction, respectively, the sensations can change every day.

Quite frequent "guests" are:

Mushrooms from the Candida series;
Gardinella.

Their presence entails the development of thrush and dysbiosis.

What to do with mucus discharge in women

It is very important to be attentive to your health and pay attention to every little thing. If you identify any discharge that differs from the norm, you should consult a specialist. Especially if the appearance of such discharge is accompanied by symptoms.

Treatment and prevention

Therapy of profuse discharge and mucus from the vagina involves a visit to a gynecologist, who, based on the examination, will make a diagnosis.

Self-treatment, as a rule, does not lead to good results, since it does not have complexity and systematicity. Most often, such an irresponsible approach leads to poor health, as well as the development of many complications.

In the treatment of infections, the following activities are most often included:

Douching. In this case, use the appropriate drugs or herbal preparations;
The use of special baths;
Taking oral medications, the action of which is intended to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms;
The use of suppositories is vaginal.

Examination by a gynecologist involves a check in four degrees of purity:

The first degree involves checking for the presence of pathogens, the reaction must be acidic, its predominance in the vagina of lactobacilli, in the absence of pathogens;
In the second degree, the number of leukocytes should be no more than 10, against this background, the indicators of latobacilli should be reduced. Pathogens are present and the reaction is acidic.

The first and second degrees are a sign of a woman's health, they confirm the absence of pathologies.

The next two degrees are pathology:

At this stage, the environment becomes alkaline, while conditional pathogens can be identified, the level of leukocytes is increased;
The fourth degree characterizes the abundance of leukocytes, pathogens. Dederlein's rods and lactobacilli are completely absent.

Timely referral to a specialist will allow you to stop the disease at the initial stage, and therefore save the genitals from inflammation in a short period.

As a rule, timely and competent therapy reduces the secreted mucus, and also eliminates unpleasant symptoms.

Moderate mucus secreted from a woman's genitals is the norm and part of the physiological process in the body.

An increase in its quantity, a change in its consistency and smell is a cause of concern that requires consultation with a specialist. The first signs of pathology must necessarily be considered by a gynecologist.

It is important to be attentive to health and to minimize the ingress of microorganisms into the genitals - to observe the basic rules of personal hygiene, to visit a gynecologist systematically, identifying various pathologies in the early stages. Pass, if necessary, systematic courses of therapy.

For more information on which discharge can be considered pathological, see the following video.

The vagina of every woman is arranged in a special way. It maintains the microflora in its natural state and removes unnecessary microorganisms. This happens through the formation of mucus. The clots differ in color and odor.

Thick white discharge in women can mean both a natural reaction of the body to external stimuli, and indicate the presence of diseases.

What is considered the norm

Leucorrhoea appears in girls during puberty. Little girls do not have any discharge, and when they appear, it is worth contacting a pediatrician, as they indicate diseases of the urinary system.

A healthy woman has odorless and itchy discharge. They are transparent or whitish in color. Sometimes a slight sour aroma is allowed. Normally, from two to four milliliters of mucus is released per day, it can leave yellow spots on linen, up to 4 centimeters in size.

If there is an abundant amount of clots with concomitant symptoms (with a pungent aroma or odorless and itching accompanies them), then it is worth checking with a gynecologist for infections.

The amount of leucorrhoea increases dramatically after sex and during intercourse. If the contact was without the use of condoms, then they are vaginal lubrication and semen.

Clots on the eve of menstruation

Before menstruation in women, the vaginal mucosa is renewed and cleared.

Abundant mucus is formed, which contains a number of components:

keratinized remnants of the epithelium;
secrets;
leukocytes in single quantities;
lactobacilli.

Leucorrhoea can be a little unclear due to its composition. If, before the onset of a new menstruation, white thick discharge is observed in women, then this may indicate pregnancy. In expectant mothers, the hormonal background changes, which leads to changes in the nature of the clots.

Leucorrhoea during ovulation

There are physiological reasons for the appearance of mucus during ovulation. Each new cycle, a woman's body prepares to conceive a child. It is better and more convenient for the sperm to move in a liquid medium, therefore, during ovulation, the amount of secretions increases, they become more viscous.

White discharge indicates that the necessary hormones have been formed, and the body is ready to bear the baby. But when fertilization has not occurred, the uterus must be cleared of basal cells. This is possible thanks to mucus and profuse secretions.

Mucus when carrying a child

During early pregnancy, almost all women have abundant white clots. This is due to the surge in hormones. By the second trimester, the discharge becomes thicker.

The appearance of abundant mucus should not alarm or frighten mom. If leucorrhoea does not cause discomfort, does not have any odor or unusual color (or), then it is the norm.

Attention! If in pregnant women, blood impurities are noticeable in the mucus, then the woman is at risk of miscarriage or premature birth. You should immediately contact your attending gynecologist.

Differences in consistency

White mucus can be thick and thin. Trichomonas or chlamydia can provoke abundant and liquid clots. Sometimes mycoplasmas give such a reaction.

If the discharge is thick in its consistency and is accompanied by other symptoms, this indicates the progression of the following pathologies:

diseases caused by viruses;
bacterial infections;
venereal diseases;
imbalance of microflora (can be caused by hormonal disruptions).

Foam is a very important sign. If it is present, then this indicates trichomoniasis (sexually transmitted infection).

Clots with thrush

White thick discharge and itching in women are the main symptoms of vaginal candidiasis. The vaginal microflora of every woman contains Candida fungi. But in a number of situations, they begin to multiply actively. This causes abundant white clots to appear. They are characterized by sharp and sour odors, curdled consistency.

Mucus with thrush is accompanied by many unpleasant symptoms: itching or burning sensation, pain during emptying of the bladder or during sex. There is swelling of the labia, clitoris and vulva.

Thrush occurs with a decrease in immunity: after taking antibiotics, long-term chronic diseases, infections of the genitourinary system, pregnancy, allergies, the use of birth control pills.

With gardnerellosis

If white mucus is accompanied by an unpleasant odor, cut in the perineum or itching, this indicates diseases of the genitourinary system. You need to see a doctor, he will diagnose that this and prescribe treatment.

Vaginal secretion is able to indicate natural and signal pathological processes in a woman's body, therefore, attention is paid to it in the first place. It is possible to guess what brown discharge may mean based on the time of its occurrence, the duration of the course, and the presence of additional symptoms.

When the symptom is within the normal range

Under certain conditions, the causes of the appearance of brown discharge in women are not associated with pathology. A brownish vaginal fluid with mucus can be provoked:

sloppy or prolonged intercourse;
rupture of the follicular sac during ovulation;
conception;
the beginning of pregnancy;
postpartum recovery;
adaptation to contraceptive pills;
intense physical activity or sports;
stabilization of the girl's monthly cycle;
preparing the body for menstruation;
the release of the remaining endometrium after menstruation;
premenopause and menopause.

If the phenomenon takes place in the middle of the cycle

During the fertile period or ovulation, blood may appear in the copious mucous fluid of the cervical canal. At first, but after the rupture of the follicle in which the egg matures, the mucus may darken due to the ingress of coagulated blood, acquiring a brown tint. Normally, the liquid should have the following characteristics:

Insignificant volume.
Annoying character.
(see photo).
Duration up to two days.
No foul odor, pain or tension in the ovarian area.

It is imperative to go to the hospital if a similar situation is noted constantly, the general condition worsens, and, without interruption, turning into menstruation.

Before your period

A few days before monthly bleeding, a girl may observe marks on her underwear or daily from minor brown mucous discharge. This phenomenon is sporadic. The fibrous structure of the secretion should not frighten, since this is how the body signals the beginning of the process of rejection of the mucous layer of the uterus.

Prolonged discharge of a smearing nature of a brownish or maroon hue a week before menstruation can be caused by:

stress;
improper diet;
strict diets;
being overweight;
the wrong way of life;
lack of sleep;
smoking, drugs and alcohol;
constant physical stress;
the strongest hormone deficiency.

Brown discharge between periods in most cases indicates a violation of the menstrual cycle or the presence of pathology. A particularly dangerous symptom is an unpleasant smell of secreted fluid and constant pain in the abdomen and lower back.

After menstruation

There should not be a lot of brown mucus from the genital tract, since the implantation damages a small number of blood vessels. In some women, there is no such early sign at all, so secretion in the blood does not always mean pregnancy.

Brown discharge in women after ovulation after 6-12 days may indicate fertilization. The time interval depends on the individual characteristics of the organism.

Additional symptoms:

swelling and soreness of the mammary glands;
frequent urge to use the toilet;
increased sleepiness;
sudden mood swings;
dizziness and tiredness.

Hormonal fluctuations

At the beginning of the use of oral contraceptives or an intrauterine device, the body gradually adjusts to the contraceptive. The adaptation period can last about three months, accompanied by minor ones.

In this situation, it is necessary to pay attention to discomfort, as well as the specific period of the cycle when this or that vaginal secretion occurs. A woman can cause dark vaginal discharge:

skipping a tablet;
violation of instructions;
taking a large dose of the drug;
incorrectly selected view OK.

When discharge indicates pathology

Without serious knowledge of gynecology, it is difficult to independently determine why brown discharge is going on, and there is significant discomfort and pain in the lower abdomen. But a woman can pay attention to the following signs, which should be the reason for an immediate visit to the gynecologist:

The bloody secretion is too thick or watery.
The released liquid becomes more and more every time.
The gasket will get wet in less than an hour.
Blood is noted in the mucus systematically.
Sexual contact is painful.
There is a high body temperature for no reason.
An unpleasant odor is felt.
Itching and burning sensation is felt.
There are no periods for a long time.
There is a large number of clots during pseudo-menstruation.

Often, the pathological state of the reproductive system manifests itself in the release of a large amount of secretion with the blood. However, gynecological pathologies do not always make themselves felt with vivid symptoms, so they can be mistakenly correlated with the consequences of stress, starvation, inaccurate coitus and other relatively harmless provocateurs. Therefore, if you find brownish discharge of any intensity, you should visit a gynecologist. Consider the most common pathologies accompanied by the described symptom.

If the discharge goes instead of menstruation

This secret can be noted instead of menstruation. This is a meager smearing secretion (up to 50 ml), which is accompanied by the following symptoms:

back pain;
feeling of tightness or chest pain;
shade the lower abdomen or suprapubic zone;
dizziness;
nausea.

The symptom can be caused by the following reasons:

Hormonal disbalance.
Dysfunction of the pituitary gland.
Endometrial injury.
The consequences of an abortion.
Prolonged inflammatory process.
Improper functioning of the endocrine system.
Strong physical activity.
Exhausting sports.
The beginning of pregnancy.

Why does the highlight change color?

The brownish color of the vaginal fluid changes depending on the factor of occurrence: light brown, brown, or even black. Vaginal secretions may darken in the mind:

taking antibiotics;
hormonal imbalance;
aggravation of the disease;
the development of diabetes mellitus;
malfunction of the endocrine system;
hormone treatment.

Remember that normal secretion, when it gets on the laundry after a while under the influence of oxygen, darkens slightly, acquiring a light yellow-brown tint.

Gynecological diseases and pathologies of pregnancy

The appearance of abundant dark brown discharge cannot be associated with the course of normal processes in the body. A similar sign indicates:

inflammatory processes;
genital infections;
ectopic (ectopic pregnancy);
the threat of miscarriage (from the first to the third trimester);
endometritis;
cystitis;
endometriosis;
erosion of the cervix;
polyps;
endometrial hyperplasia;
benign neoplasms;

Diseases may not be diagnosed for a long time since the symptoms do not appear immediately. A woman may not be aware of the pathology, and not observe any obvious signs. The appearance of a dark brown discharge often indicates an already advanced case, which will be much more difficult to treat. It is for this reason that, without a good reason, you should visit a gynecologist every six months, and if you have unnatural symptoms, immediately.

Problems with pregnancy and malignant tumors are considered especially dangerous, because in these situations there is a threat to the patient's life without timely treatment or surgery.

Cystitis

With inflammation of the urethra or the bladder itself, blood is released, which is not related to diseases of the reproductive system. After frequent urination, a woman not only notes, but also painful sensations in the lower abdomen or lower back. Additional symptoms of urethritis are similar to those of a common cold. The following symptoms and characteristics of the secreted fluid should be alerted:

the appearance of blood in the urine;
frequent urge to urinate;
cloudy urine;
high body temperature;
vomiting and nausea.

Infectious diseases

Infection of the genital organs of a woman in the absence of timely treatment causes prolonged inflammatory processes. Such violations affect the amount and shade of vaginal secretions. To prevent complications, women need to know the nature of the dangerous brown discharge and what kind of infections they occur.

chlamydia;
gonorrhea;
trichomoniasis;
candidiasis (thrush);
genital herpes;
mycoplasmosis;
ureaplasmosis;
bacterial vaginosis;
gardnerellosis.

The onset of these diseases can be asymptomatic until the infection provokes inflammation. Each type of pathology has its own signs, but in any condition, brown vaginal discharge is a serious reason to visit a doctor and take a smear for microscopic examination.

Dark discharge can be considered normal or indicate the development of a pathological process in the body. For any ailments, you must consult a specialist and in no case self-medicate. Only on the basis of the results of the examination and analyzes, the doctor will prescribe an effective treatment.

From the moment of onset of puberty, girls have vaginal discharge. This is natural and suggests that changes are taking place in the body, thanks to which the ovaries and uterus develop and begin to function. There are certain signs that make it possible to understand whether the organs of the reproductive system are working normally or there are any violations. Pathology is, for example, the presence of a color or a pungent odor in the discharge. The reasons for the appearance of abundant discharge are often questionable. Sometimes only a detailed examination will help to figure it out.

Content:

Causes and symptoms of normal leucorrhoea

Normal mucous secretions are formed as a result of the constant renewal of the epithelial cells of the mucous membranes of organs. Mucus is produced by the glands of the cervix, and the waste products of microorganisms that make up the vaginal microflora and other physiological fluids are added to it. Their consistency and volume depend on the characteristics of the organism, age, physiological state of the woman.

The difference between normal and pathological discharge is that they do not cause discomfort, do not have a smell. They are transparent or white, with a slight yellowish or creamy tint. Ovulation discharge may contain minor blood impurities.

The appearance of profuse discharge is the norm in the following cases:

Puberty begins in girls. This happens at about 11-14 years old. 1-1.5 years before this, mucous white discharge appears, which indicates hormonal changes in the body. In the cervix, glands that produce secretory fluid begin to function. The hormonal background is not formed immediately. The processes in the organs of the reproductive system also proceed unevenly, the volume of mucus produced fluctuates. Discharge from a girl during this period can be both insignificant in volume and abundant.
The moment of ovulation is approaching, the release of a mature egg from the protective shell (follicle). Ovulation occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle. The abundant discharge makes it easier for the sperm to pass into the uterus to fertilize the egg.
The second half of the cycle ends. During this time, progesterone, the hormone responsible for maintaining pregnancy after conception, plays a major role. Thanks to its effect, the glands of the cervix begin to intensively produce jelly-like mucus, which is necessary to facilitate the penetration of the embryo into the uterus and attach it to the wall. If conception has not occurred, then menstruation begins. Therefore, an increase in the volume of mucus before menstruation should not be a cause for concern if it has a white (maybe slightly creamy) color and does not have an unpleasant odor.
Leucorrhoea worse with sexual arousal.
Pregnancy becomes the cause of watery discharge in a woman;
Menstruation may be copious. They are normal, if their volume does not exceed 80-100 ml, they stop after a maximum of 5 days.

Video: Normal and abnormal vaginal discharge

Pathological discharge and their signs

Pathological leucorrhoea can be a manifestation of diseases of the genitourinary system associated with infection with infections, the reproduction of opportunistic microorganisms. The cause of many diseases of the uterus and appendages is hormonal imbalance. It occurs in the body due to disruption of the endocrine system, the use of hormonal drugs, violation of physiological norms.

Diseases can be the consequences of abortion, childbirth, operations on the reproductive organs. If profuse discharge has arisen due to illness, it usually has an unpleasant odor, foamy or cheesy consistency, yellow or green color, and contains impurities of blood. They cause redness and swelling of the skin around the vulva and perineum. Usually, this results in a burning sensation and itching in the vagina, urination becomes more frequent, all this is accompanied by a pain in the bladder.

Diseases in which there are profuse leucorrhoea

Pathological discharge occurs as a result of disruption of the glands that produce mucus, cell death, damage to blood and lymph vessels, and the formation of pus. The danger is that inflammation quickly spreads in the genitals.

Inflammatory diseases

Abundant discharge occurs during inflammatory processes in the following organs:

Colpitis (in the vaginal mucosa). The cause of the disease may be a violation of the composition of microflora and the reproduction of opportunistic bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci). Failure to comply with hygiene rules and frequent douching contribute to an increase in the number of harmful microbes against the background of the death of beneficial bacteria. Depending on the degree of tissue damage, a woman develops intense liquid or thick purulent discharge that has a foul odor.
Cervicitis (in the squamous and columnar epithelium of the cervix). Leucorrhoea may have a pinkish color due to the ingress of blood from damaged small vessels into them. This is especially noticeable after intercourse. Before and after menstruation, the discharge becomes dark brown.
Endometritis (in the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity - endometrium). Due to damage to the vessels of the endometrium, clots of coagulated blood appear in the secretions. Brown discharge may appear 2 days before your period.
Salpingitis (in the fallopian tubes). In the acute phase of the inflammatory process, the leucorrhoea is watery, has a green tint, and a fetid odor.
Oophoritis (in the ovaries). Acute inflammation is accompanied by copious, foul-smelling yellow discharge with impurities of pus and blood.

Inflammatory processes in the uterus and ovaries lead to the appearance of pain in the lower back and lower abdomen in a woman, an increase in temperature, and lead to irregularities in the menstrual cycle. They are often the cause of infertility or complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Venereal diseases

They are characterized by abundant liquidish purulent discharge with a specific odor. They cause burning and itching in the vagina. Urination becomes painful. Pains in the lower abdomen appear. Often such diseases occur in aggregate, masking each other. This makes them difficult to treat.

A warning: Treatment of sexually transmitted diseases will only be effective when both sex partners are treated at the same time.

Trichomoniasis The discharge in this disease is foamy, intense, and has a pungent unpleasant odor. Color - gray with a yellow tint.

Chlamydia. Mucopurulent discharge with a bad smell is observed. Often, in the initial stage, it proceeds covertly. But even in the absence of symptoms, the likelihood of infection is high.

Gonorrhea. Gonococci affect the columnar epithelium located in the uterus, as well as the bladder, rectum, causing the appearance of cystitis, proctitis. Purulent, abundant yellow discharge appears. There are pains in the lower abdomen and symptoms of damage to other organs of the small pelvis. Heavy bleeding may occur between periods.

Video: Discharge in women with trichomoniasis

Non-inflammatory infectious diseases

Bacterial vaginosis. The death of beneficial lactobacilli causes an increased reproduction of opportunistic bacteria that live in the body, not showing themselves in any way until they get into favorable conditions. The cause can be hormonal disorders, and diseases of the genital organs, radiation therapy, the use of antibiotics and other factors. A characteristic sign of dysbiosis is abundant, irritating to the skin of the external genital organs. They are gray in color and smell of rotting fish.

In the treatment of vaginosis, it is important to restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the mucous membranes of the female genital organs. For this, doctors prescribe not only medications, but also means to normalize the vaginal microflora. Multi-Gin ActiGel has proven itself well, containing a complex of biologically active polysaccharides, which is obtained from a gel-like extract of aloe leaves. It does not allow pathogens to gain a foothold on the genital mucosa, neutralizes them, thereby helping to restore a healthy vaginal microflora.

Candidiasis- a fungal disease known as thrush. It is characterized by copious milky white, curdled discharge with a sour odor, causing severe itching and burning in the vulva.

Video: Discharge with gardnerellosis (bacterial vaginosis)

How to establish the cause of pathological discharge

By the nature of the discharge, an assumption can be made about a possible pathology:

white curdled whites with a sour smell occur with candidiasis;
gray with the smell of fish, transparent, watery - with bacterial vaginosis;
yellow - with trichomoniasis;
bloody can appear in the presence of an intrauterine device, as well as endometriosis, erosion or cancer of the cervix;
purulent - occur with genital infections.

If a woman develops suspicious profuse discharge, she must undergo an examination, take a smear for analysis for microflora. A general blood test will confirm the presence of an inflammatory process. Special blood tests (PCR, ELISA) can detect hidden infections. Ultrasound, colposcopy and X-ray are used to detect pathological changes in organ tissues.

A warning: Treatment must be prescribed by a doctor. You can not delay time and fight ailments with home remedies. Diseases can turn into a chronic dangerous form.

Features of leucorrhoea during pregnancy and after childbirth

During pregnancy, significant hormonal changes occur in connection with the preparation of the body for childbirth. The walls of the uterus and vagina become softer and more elastic, and more mucus is produced to facilitate the passage of the fetus through the birth canal. Therefore, an increase in the volume of white, almost transparent discharge is normal. At the beginning of pregnancy, they are thicker, from the 2nd trimester they become more and more liquefied. In the last weeks, leakage of amniotic fluid may begin, which indicates an impending birth.

In addition to normal liquid secretions, pathological ones may appear in pregnant women, which are dangerous to ignore. These include symptoms of thrush, vaginal dysbiosis, inflammatory diseases, genital infections. The doctor prescribes safe drugs in order to rid the woman of such pathologies, to prevent infection of the fetus.

Bloody discharge occurs with erosion of the cervix. They can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy if they are accompanied by painful sensations on one side of the abdomen (where the fetus is fixed). Such discharge appears with placental abruption, the threat of miscarriage. To maintain pregnancy, bed rest and timely treatment are necessary.

After childbirth, a woman develops lochia, discharge associated with the cleansing of the uterus. In the early days, they are intense, reminiscent of profuse menstruation with remnants of the placenta and epithelium. Gradually, their volume decreases, only yellowish mucus remains in them. After 1.5 months, the discharge takes its usual form.

Smirnova Olga (gynecologist, State Medical University, 2010)

The presence of vaginal secretion in a moderate amount and not causing discomfort indicates the correct functioning of the reproductive system. Most often, there is a transparent and white discharge in women, which change depending on the menstrual cycle and indicate the course of normal physiological processes in the body. Changes in the intensity of excretion of vaginal fluid, in its structure and smell, can indicate a certain disease. Consider in this article, when the designation of unusual white secretion should be the reason for visiting a doctor.

Leucorrhoea with age-related changes

Preparation for menstruation (12-16 years old). Shortly before menarche, the girl's body begins to secrete a whitish or homogeneous structure. Such a substance should not contain flakes, hard lumps or other seals. White means that the first period should begin in a few months. This symptom can also apply to young girls. Read in one of our articles about girls under the influence of mother's hormones.
Reproductive period (16–45 years). For adult women, a small amount of leucorrhoea are constant companions in life. They perform a protective function, during sex they moisturize the vagina, preventing damage and irritation of the mucous membrane. You do not need to treat them.
Premenopause (from about 45 years old). In a healthy woman, a whitish secret appears in a volume of 2 to 5 ml per day. With a hormonal disorder, there is a sharp decrease in the amount of leucorrhoea. In this case, you need to consult a doctor to prescribe drugs that support hormonal levels.
Climax (from about 55 years old). Despite the small amount of vaginal mucus, it is extremely important to regularly visit a gynecologist and have a smear. At this age, the female body is predisposed to various diseases, which are distinguished by strong leucorrhoea of different structures.

At any time in her life, a woman should regularly visit a gynecologist. Only a specialist can accurately determine the cause of the appearance of white discharge.

Finding any pathologies at an early stage of development determines the speed, effectiveness and possibility of their cure.

Discharge volume

The quantitative indicator of whitish secretion changes throughout the menstrual cycle:

Immediately after your period. Whitish secretion is practically absent or appears in small quantities.
Mid-cycle (ovulation). Mucus from the vagina becomes noticeably larger. At this time, the appearance of abundant white discharge (from 5 to 10 ml per day) is allowed, which can drag on. But only for a few days without additional unpleasant symptoms.
After ovulation. There is less secretion during this period, it gradually becomes colorless, and its volume increases immediately before menstruation, but not more than a teaspoon per day.

Such dynamics is noted not in every woman due to the individual state of the hormonal background and a specific period in life.

Lean

Most often, a woman does not worry about minor whitish discharge. But they can also require treatment in some situations. The presence of scanty secretion of a milky color (0.1-0.2 ml) or its absence may be associated with various disorders. Gynecologists note complete and partial vaginal dryness, which occurs due to the following factors:

Possible excess or lack of hormones.
The development of inflammation in the pelvic organs (the temperature rises).
Endocrine Disorders.
Imbalance of the vaginal microflora.
The presence of infections and pathogenic bacteria.
Bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol).
Failure to comply with the rules of personal hygiene.
Douching abuse.

The secretion should come out with a certain frequency during the day, and during arousal it should increase. When there is a lack of natural lubrication, there is an increased risk of damage to the inner walls of the vagina during sex. Microtrauma caused by friction creates favorable conditions for the growth of fungi and bacteria.

A dry period normally can occur only after menstruation and during menopause. The extinction of the reproductive function provokes an inactive work of the gonads. Decreased libido and decreased secretion production, so a woman needs to control hormone levels and use additional moisturizers during coitus.

Abundant

In the absence of discomfort, bad smell, a lot of discharge with a white color does not indicate pathology. Such secretion is noted only for a few hours or days.

Among the non-dangerous reasons for the designation of the described discharge, it is worth highlighting:

the reaction of the reproductive system to arousal;
getting sperm into the vagina;
change of sexual partner;
unprotected intercourse, ending with ejaculation in the vagina;
taking oral contraceptives;
hormone treatment;
pregnancy;
puberty in girls.

However, too much vaginal mucus should not be present. A clear sign of a malfunction is the appearance of strong, odorous white discharge over a long period of time. The panty liner gets wet quickly (in less than an hour) and the secretion does not decrease in volume for two or three days.

A pathological increase in odorless secretion is most often caused by:

erosion of the cervix;
acute salpingitis;
adnexitis.

The presence of abundant white discharge with an unpleasant odor may indicate the presence of vaginosis, vaginitis or vaginal dysbiosis.

It is impossible to establish what kind of negative process can occur in the body without the help of a doctor.

Secretion consistency

An important factor in the diagnosis of white vaginal discharge is their density. Normally, the consistency of the secret changes during the monthly cycle:

The beginning of the follicular phase. Cervical mucus is quite dense and viscous due to the predominance of progesterone. At this time, a plug forms, which protects the reproductive system from infections and microbes.
Shortly before ovulation. The secretion still retains a thick state, but becomes more and more stringy. The mucus is sticky in nature, but the stretch does not exceed one centimeter.
During ovulation. The body creates favorable conditions for the penetration of sperm, so the mucus from the cervical canal is liquid, loose,. Some women have a watery secretion, but no discomfort.
Corpus luteum phase. The liquid secretion becomes thick again, practically disappears. The appearance of profuse white vaginal discharge in women can be noticed shortly before menstrual bleeding.

Watery

The onset of liquid discharge (more than five days) can be characterized by the initial stages of the following diseases:

inflammation of the genitals;
cervical erosion;
dysbiosis of the vagina;
colpitis;
cervical cancer;
sexually transmitted infections.

The secret can flow like water. If the pathology is not treated, then other unpleasant sensations are added to the watery secretion. And also white mucus over time can change its shade to pink, green, yellow, gray, depending on the existing disease.

Thick

Dense or thick vaginal discharge can be caused by harmless reasons:

predominance of cervical fluid in the secretion;
high progesterone levels during a specific period of the cycle;
the first 12 weeks of pregnancy;
a sharp change in climate;
the use of suppositories, gels, ointments;
reaction to synthetics;
use of unsuitable intimate hygiene products.

In the presence of dense, odorless secretion and itching, an increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms in the vagina or a decrease in the number of lactobacilli can be assumed. The most common pathology is the initial stage and chronic form of thrush. It provokes not only cheesy, but also.

When Candida fungi enter the female vagina, beneficial microorganisms begin to fight pathogens. This process provokes a change in the consistency of vaginal secretions. In 90% of cases, the early development of thrush is not accompanied by thick whites and itching.

The same situation develops with chronic candidiasis. The aroma, pain disappear, but the disease does not disappear anywhere. In this case, white thick discharge in women is characterized by latent inflammation of the cervix, provoked by thrush.

Mucous

To cause the appearance of white mucous discharge in women can:

chlamydia;
bacterial vaginosis;
gonorrhea (gonorrhea);
trichomoniasis.

A whitish shade of secretion with mucus causes an increased number of leukocytes and pathogenic microflora. With the development of the disease, the fluid often becomes yellow, greenish or purulent. And its consistency takes on a frothy character.

Curd

The most common disorder of the reproductive system among women is thrush. Candidiasis often presents as a white, thick discharge that itches and burns. Vaginal secretions can come out in large quantities and acquire a cheesy character over time.

The consistency is not uniform with lumps or flakes. Resembles curdled milk or curd. They have a very pungent sour odor. In addition to the described characteristics of the discharge, the following symptoms occur:

pain during sex;
discomfort while urinating;
may pull the lower abdomen;
burning of the external genital organs.

They differ in the brightness of the symptoms.

When candidiasis occurs with little or no symptoms, it is very easy to confuse pathology with other diseases. Because of this, women cannot properly treat the problem without the help of a doctor. Especially when combining thrush with other fungal and infectious diseases.

The structure of secretion in candidiasis can contain in large quantities:

lumps;
flakes;
clots;
streaks;
hard pieces of unknown origin.

Itching and white discharge in women may be associated with conditions such as trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginitis.

Smell of discharge

Reproductive system diseases are often characterized by white fluids. The only exception is secretion with an unsaturated sour odor due to the vaginal environment. A harsh, unpleasant odor is not the norm.

Pathological mucus can smell like:

Fish

Vaginal dysbiosis is a common cause of whites. Itching in the perineal area can begin with prolonged absence of treatment.

Urine

Due to stress, excess weight, excessive physical exertion, fluid from the bladder can leak. Therefore, u. For treatment, it is necessary to be examined by a gynecologist and urologist.

Tukhlyatinoy

A rotten aroma can occur against the background of gardnerellosis. The color of the vaginal fluid gradually changes, and a dirty tint appears in the white mucus. The smell of rotten fish may indicate the formation of polyamines.

Herring

Due to the large number of pathogenic flora, against the background of a decrease in the number of beneficial bacteria, bacterial vaginosis develops. On the underpants there are significant leucorrhoea with a very unpleasant smell of herring.

Onions

A sign of a fungal disease. The onion aroma is enhanced after intercourse and during monthly bleeding.

Acetone

Discharge in women of white color with a pungent smell of acetone may appear against the background of diabetes mellitus due to the formation of ketone bodies. Additional reasons: problems with metabolic processes, diseases of the urinary system, strict diets.

Iron

The presence of this odor can be attributed to the presence of blood. The daily secretion remains white, but after sex, a woman often notes brownish marks on her underwear. The danger is a focus of erosion of the cervix, which, without treatment, often degenerates into cancer.

These problems provoke the appearance of a white, odorless discharge without itching.

The exception is vaginal dysbiosis and gardnerellosis, which are also characterized by burning sensation.

If the leucorrhoea persists

Girls can observe constantly smearing white discharge due to:

When white discharge appears, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist to establish an accurate diagnosis and select an effective treatment.

Leucorrhoea pathology

Secretion can be secreted from various parts of the reproductive system. The origin of leucorrhoea or discharge in white women may be as follows:

Pipe. Whitish secretion occurs due to the inflammatory process in the tubes of the uterus. First, the fluid accumulates, gradually entering the uterus, and only then it enters the vagina.
Vaginal. Diseases of the vagina cause a violation of the microflora. It can be thrush, dysbiosis or infection of the reproductive system.
Cervical. The appearance of leucorrhoea is most often caused by cervicitis. Inflammation is provoked by pathogenic microorganisms against the background of gonorrhea, mycoplasmosis and chlamydia.
Uterine. White secretion from the uterus is released due to endometritis (acute, chronic, specific). Fluid from the cervix enters the vagina, where it mixes with the usual.

The woman is unable to independently establish the area of the reproductive system, where exactly a significant strange secret could arise. The cause of white discharge in women should be determined by a doctor, and priority in treatment should be given to traditional medicine. There are several diagnostic methods in gynecology. The specialist will assess the symptoms, check the smear material and only then prescribe the appropriate therapy. Incorrectly selected therapy is not only useless, but also extremely hazardous to health.