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The white discharge when accompanied by a smell and consistency different from the usual can be a sign of vaginal infection such as candidiasis or of some change in normal vaginal flora such as bacterial vaginosis. In these cases, the discharge is accompanied by other symptoms, such as burning and vaginal itching, and it is recommended to consult the gynecologist as soon as possible, so that the best treatment can be recommended.
However, not all discharge is a sign of illness or infection, as it is normal for women to have small amounts of white or transparent, fluid, odorless discharge that maintain vaginal lubrication. In addition, discharge similar to egg white may indicate the woman's fertile period.
Main causes of white discharge
White curdled milk discharge when accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, redness and burning sensation in the vulva and vagina region can have different causes, which include:
1. Vaginal candidiasis
Vaginal candidiasis is a very common infection in women that arises due to the development of the fungus of the genus Candida sp., more often Candida Albicans, which in addition to the white discharge also causes itching in the genital region, burning when urinating, pain during intimate contact and redness in the intimate region.
How to treat: The treatment for candidiasis is done with the use of antifungal drugs, in tablets, ointment or vaginal tablets, such as Fluconazole. Treatment can last between 3 to 7 days and should be recommended by the gynecologist. Understand better how candidiasis is treated.
2. Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is a change in normal vaginal flora, where there is a greater development of the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis, which can cause white, gray or yellow discharge, an unpleasant smell similar to the smell of rotten fish, itching and burning in the genital region. Learn how to identify the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis.
How to treat: Treatment for infection Gardnerella vaginalis it is done using the antibiotic Metronidazole, which should be recommended by the gynecologist. In addition, during the recovery period, the use of condoms and hygiene related care is recommended.
3. Hormonal changes
It is normal that before menstruating the woman has white and thick discharge, being considered part of the menstrual cycle and being related to hormonal changes during that period. This discharge has no smell, is not associated with any other symptoms and appears with the objective of preventing the displacement of the sperm and subsequent fertilization of the egg and also as a way of protecting the woman's body and promoting lubrication.
In addition, during pregnancy it is also possible to see a small white discharge, which also happens as a result of hormonal changes typical of this period, in which case it is important that the woman is accompanied by the gynecologist to ensure that the pregnancy is happening correctly.
However, if yellow, brown, or pink discharge appears before menstruation, in addition to other symptoms, it is important to go to the gynecologist to have an evaluation of the genital region and to perform tests, as it may be a sign of vaginal infection or infections. sexually transmitted infections, requiring treatment. See which treatment is most appropriate for each type of discharge.
Care to avoid white discharge
As the white discharge can be indicative of infections, it is important that the woman takes some care to avoid changes in the vaginal microbiota and development of the infection, such as:
- Avoid getting damp or wet underwear;
- Do not use synthetic material panties, opting for cotton pieces;
- Wear light clothing and avoid tight jeans and shorts;
- Avoid sweet foods and foods rich in carbohydrates, as they decrease immunity, enhancing the appearance of infections;
- Do not use vaginal douching directly on the genital area and wash the outer region of the vagina using an intimate soap;
- Sleep without panties;
- After evacuating, always wipe from front to back, to prevent fecal bacteria from entering the vagina and causing infections.
In addition, perfumed baby wipes or scented toilet paper can also damage a woman's intimate health, increasing the risk of developing infections. Check how intimate hygiene should be done to avoid infections.