What secretions can be Normal vaginal discharge in girls and women

Vaginal discharge, or leucorrhoea (also leucorrhea), occurs in healthy women, as well as in various diseases, especially infections. A common cause of excess fluid secretion is bacterial vaginosis, that is, an imbalance in the normal vaginal microflora, as well as thrush (candidiasis). The discharge of leucorrhoea may be accompanied by burning, itching, and an unpleasant odor. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

What is beli?

Should a healthy woman have leucorrhea? Yes, this process reflects the normal cleansing of the mucous membrane from dead cells. In most women, the amount of vaginal secretion secreted increases before ovulation and. This is due to changes in the hormonal background and an increase in secretion by the glands of the cervix and vagina, which helps possible fertilization. In a healthy woman of reproductive age, about 20 ml of leucorrhoea is formed per day, but this amount is individual.

A change in smell, color, or an increase in the amount of discharge, accompanied by irritation of the tissues of the vagina, may indicate the presence of an infection.

Causes of the appearance of pathological discharge

The walls of the vagina and cervix contain glands that secrete a small amount of fluid, which helps to cleanse the genital tract. Normal leucorrhoea is transparent or milky white in color, they do not have an unpleasant odor. Various infectious diseases can cause a change in their volume, consistency, color or smell.

Pathological causes of changes in the nature of the discharge:

• Bacterial vaginosis

This is an imbalance in the number of bacteria that are normally present in the vagina. Its exact causes are unknown. Previously it was believed that vaginosis is caused by bacteria gardnerella, and was designated as gardnerellosis. However, an increase in the number of these microorganisms during the disease is not always observed.

• Trichomoniasis

• Gonorrhea

The infection is transmitted sexually. The causative agent is the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or gonococci.

• Chlamydia

Another sexual infection caused by microorganisms from the genus Chlamydia. In infected women, symptoms are usually absent, and leucorrhoea becomes the only manifestation of the pathology. In the acute course of the disease, in addition to abundant discharge, there are signs of inflammation of the vagina, urethra, and bladder.

• Candidiasis

The disease occurs when there is an overgrowth of fungi of the genus Candida in the vagina, often due to antibiotics or other factors that destroy the normal bacterial flora of the vagina.

Symptoms

Pathological leucorrhoea in women can have a different color - from transparent to gray, yellow, greenish or milky white, as well as an unpleasant odor of a different nature. Symptoms depend on their cause:

• : not all women are accompanied by this symptom, but often under the influence of a provoking factor, an abundant discharge of a grayish-white color appears, with an unpleasant fishy smell.
• causes frothy yellow-green leucorrhoea with a smell. Associated symptoms include discomfort during intercourse and urination, irritation and itching of the genitals.
• accompanied by symptoms in only half of the infected women. The patient may be disturbed by burning during urination, an increase in its frequency, yellow discharge from the vagina, redness and swelling of the genitals, itching in the vagina.
• is also often asymptomatic. In other patients, the amount of discharge increases and symptoms of cystitis, urethritis appear.
• accompanied by thick, odorless leucorrhoea, reminiscent of cottage cheese in texture. Other symptoms include burning, pain during urination and intercourse.

Leucorrhea in healthy women

The nature of vaginal discharge can change at different times in a woman's life.

Beli before menstruation occurs 2-3 days before they begin. They are usually white or slightly yellowish. If a woman uses intrauterine contraception (), whites of a yellow or brownish color and a smearing character will be normal. By consistency, they are quite thick, mucous in nature, with a slight sour smell.

Pregnancy period

During the 1st trimester of pregnancy, a woman usually does not notice any changes in the nature of the vaginal secret. From the 13th week, the formation of a mucous plug that closes the cervical canal occurs, the metabolism and the death of the cells of the vaginal wall are accelerated. These processes are accompanied by an increase in the volume of secreted mucus, which normally has a light or white color, a liquid consistency, and no smell.

In the 3rd trimester, the discharge becomes quite abundant. This symptom is called "leukorrhea during pregnancy." If it is not accompanied by itching, burning, redness of the external genital organs or a change in the color and smell of the discharge, this phenomenon is physiological in nature and requires only hygiene. Any changes in the usual properties must be reported to the attending physician.

Climax

Beli with gradually become less intense. However, they retain their normal color and a slight odor. Abundant discharge of yellow, green, curdled consistency or mixed with blood should be the reason for contacting a gynecologist.

The function of the gonads in older women fades away, so the hormones no longer affect the condition of the vaginal wall. Its dryness develops, which should not cause concern. With discomfort, the gynecologist may prescribe an estrogen-containing cream that stimulates the mucous glands. At this age, abundant discharge, especially watery, becomes a sign of pathology, which can be a sign of endometrial cancer.

Vaginal Discharge Options

To find out if medical care is needed for whites, it is necessary to determine their nature:

• milky white: a variant of the norm, usually occurs before menstruation or a few days after it;
• transparent and watery: a variant of the norm, if not accompanied by itching and an unpleasant odor;
• reminiscent of egg white: elastic, light, occur during the period, indicate the greatest ability of a woman to conceive;
• yellow: a sign of an infectious process; with an accompanying fishy smell - a symptom of bacterial vaginosis;
• green: symptom of infection; with an accompanying unpleasant odor, most likely trichomoniasis;
• brown: hormonal imbalance, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and implantation bleeding after pregnancy; during childbearing may be a sign of a threat of interruption of gestation;
• thick: occur in the second phase of the cycle, often indicate the end of a favorable time for conception;
• white crumbs: a sign of thrush;
• pink: a symptom of a tumor of the cervix or endometrium, vaginal infections,.

Other possible causes of abnormal discharge

A change in the nature of whites can occur under the influence of more rare causes:

Allergic reaction

May evolve into a new brand of laundry detergent, intimate care products, etc. Chemicals in detergents, fabric softeners, creams, sprays, topical contraceptives (creams, vaginal tablets), and condoms can irritate the genital area. The same reaction sometimes occurs with intolerance to antibiotics.

Systemic diseases

First of all, diabetes. Women with this pathology have an increased risk of vaginal candidiasis. Also, thrush occurs when local immunity is suppressed and the number of normal lactic acid bacteria decreases under the influence of antibiotic therapy. Sometimes candidiasis develops after the use of any one of the groups of antibacterial drugs (for example, ciprofloxacin), while others do not cause an exacerbation of the disease.

Non-observance of hygiene rules

The cause of discharge and an unpleasant odor can be a hygienic tampon forgotten in the vagina. You can try to remove it yourself, after washing your hands well. If parts of the tampon still remain inside, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist, as they can cause purulent inflammation and septic shock.

Diagnostic Measures

When deviations from the norm appear, the following diagnostic methods are used:

• clarification of the symptoms of the disease, the time of their appearance and other characteristics;
• vaginal examination with examination of the walls of the vagina and cervix using mirrors;
• a smear from the vagina and from the surface of the cervix for microscopic examination;
• polymerase chain reaction to identify infectious agents.

Treatment

Medical therapy

Preparations for the treatment of leucorrhoea are prescribed by a gynecologist after establishing the causes of the pathology. Antibiotics are most commonly used in the form of tablets, injections, or topical preparations such as vaginal suppositories.

It is important to get the full course of antibiotics or antifungals prescribed, even if the symptoms are gone. If signs of the disease persist or recur, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist to rule out a malignant tumor of the genital organs.

To restore the vaginal microflora after antibiotic therapy is completed, it is recommended:

• vaginal suppositories Lactobacterin, Atsilakt, Bifidumbacterin, Bifiliz, Femilex;
• vaginal capsules Laktozhinal, Laktonorm, Ecofemin;
• vaginal tablets Vaginorm-S.

Treatment of leukorrhea should include compliance with the rules of hygiene:

• washing with soap twice a day;
• refusal to use tampons;
• change panty liners after each urination or bowel movement;
• use of unscented condoms during sexual intercourse;
• use only cotton underwear.

Possible consequences of diseases accompanied by leucorrhoea in women, in the absence of timely therapy:

• inflammatory diseases of the small pelvis (salpingitis, oophoritis, endometritis, endocervicitis);
• ectopic pregnancy;
• infertility;

Treatment with home remedies

Any pathological discharge requires a visit to a doctor. Self-medication at home without accurate diagnosis can cause a temporary improvement in well-being, caused by the transition of the pathology to a chronic form. If at the same time there are sexual infections, the woman remains a source of pathogens, thinking that she is healthy.

Douching as a method of treatment is not recommended by doctors. The body cleans the walls of the vagina spontaneously. Douching can upset the normal balance of microflora, cause inflammation and increase symptoms. It is better to replace this popular method of therapy with sitz baths.

Folk remedies

Useful decoctions for oral administration:

• wormwood roots (20 grams per glass), take a tablespoon three times a day;
• peony roots, sweet clover grass, which are brewed and drunk instead of tea;
• juice of viburnum berries; a quarter cup a day is enough to reduce the intensity of the discharge.

For washing and sitz baths, you can prepare the following products:

• take 30 grams of crushed eucalyptus leaves, pour a glass of boiling water, cool, strain and dissolve the infusion in 1 liter of boiled water;
• Dissolve 10 ml of pharmacy tincture of calendula in alcohol in a glass of water;
• use St. John's wort, chamomile, oak bark, yarrow, sage to prepare decoctions;
• with severe itching, concentrated soda baths at the rate of 5 tablespoons per liter of water will help to quickly eliminate it.

Forecast and prevention

In most cases, the conditions that caused the appearance of pathological leucorrhea respond well to therapy. When treating atrophic vaginitis in older women with hormonal drugs, the restoration of the mucous membrane will take several weeks.

In case of recurrence of a vaginal infection, the doctor prescribes more effective drugs, conducts a deeper examination to determine the causes of the protracted course of the disease.

To avoid diseases that can cause pathological discharge, it is necessary to observe the following preventive measures:

1. Compliance with sexual hygiene, use (of condoms), refusal of promiscuity.
2. Treatment with antibiotics only as prescribed by a doctor.
3. Good nutrition, giving up bad habits, eliminating adverse factors that can adversely affect a woman's health.
4. Competent treatment of concomitant diseases, especially diabetes mellitus.

Normally, a healthy woman secretes a small amount of vaginal secretion daily. This is a mucous discharge, which may vary in degree of density.

It is formed due to the secretion of the glands of the vestibule of the vagina, cervix, endometrium. Microorganisms that form the biocenosis of the vagina participate in the formation of fluid.

At certain periods of life, the amount of vaginal discharge may increase. Sometimes they change color, texture and smell, become pathological.

Why do selections change?

Vaginal discharge becomes more abundant under the influence of estrogen. This is clearly visible during the period of ovulation, when there is more fluid, but it resembles transparent, light mucus or egg white. This is the normal state.

Sexual arousal dilates blood vessels, increases blood flow to the pelvic organs. Some of the plasma leaks out of the capillaries into the vagina. At the same time, the secretions become larger, they are more liquid. Sometimes an increase in secretion is noticed before the onset of menstruation.

During pregnancy, under the influence of hormones, the amount of discharge also increases, they can be white, creamy, viscous, but do not cause irritation and are not accompanied by itching and burning. In smears, inflammatory changes should not be observed.

Pathological whites have other characteristics:

1. 1 The color changes from transparent to white, sometimes with other shades.
2. 2 The consistency becomes viscous, liquid, foamy, .
3. 3 The number increases in different proportions, sometimes there are a lot of them.
4. 4 A foreign smell may appear (, pronounced sour, rotten).
5. 5 According to the physical properties of leucorrhoea, it can be assumed which microorganism provoked the disease.

White discharge in women is observed more often than others. The main reasons for their occurrence are changes in the hormonal background (early pregnancy, ovulation, etc.), infection (, cervicitis), erosion and ectopia of the cervix.

2. Candidiasis

This fungal infection is the most likely cause of white discharge. Most often they resemble cottage cheese, thick and grainy, but can be slimy and viscous, odorless. Additional symptoms are itching and burning in the vagina and urethra.

3. Bacterial vaginosis

Grayish-white, viscous discharge, sometimes with a yellow tint, is observed with.

6. Ectopia and erosion of the cervix

These diseases are also often accompanied by abundant light, clear or white discharge, their number naturally increases before menstruation, after intercourse and during ovulation.

A woman often has intermenstrual bleeding and there is a slight bleeding after sex (additional trauma to the epithelium is accompanied by the appearance of brown and creamy discharge).

These pathologies require mandatory observation by a gynecologist, diagnosis and timely treatment (electrocoagulation, laser coagulation, cryodestruction or conization).

7. Additional features

White discharge is not a single symptom of the disease. Often they are accompanied by the following symptoms:

1. 1 Itching in the intimate area of ​​varying intensity. Sometimes it appears before a copious discharge. With candidiasis and trichomoniasis, itching is observed more often than with bacterial vaginosis, mycoplasmosis.
2. 2 Swelling and redness are signs of an inflammatory reaction.
3. 3 Increased bleeding. In the inflamed mucosa, the vessels are easily damaged, there is a slight bleeding after intercourse, gynecological examination, and so on.
4. 4 The smell can also change. Normal female discharge is odorless, less often with a slightly acidic discharge. With candidiasis, the sour smell becomes more pronounced, sharp. Gardnerellosis is accompanied by an unpleasant fishy smell. A sharp, heavy smell is observed with purulent inflammation (gonorrhea, trichomoniasis).

The appearance of white vaginal discharge may be accompanied by dyspareunia - painful sensations during intercourse. They are also observed during examination. Pelvic pain occurs when the organs of the upper floor (uterine mucosa, appendages) are involved in the inflammatory process.

Dysuric disorders mean involvement of the urethra and bladder (urethritis and cystitis).

A change in the nature of the discharge against the background of a delay in menstruation may be the first sign of a pregnancy.

8. Diagnostic methods

The described symptoms are the main reason for visiting a gynecologist. Before the examination, he must find out:

1. 1 The time of appearance of whites.
2. 2 Whether this was preceded by unprotected intercourse, a change of partner, and so on.
3. 3 The intensity of the discharge.
4. 4 Additional complaints (itching and burning, soreness, cycle disorder, frequent painful urination, etc.)
5. 5 The presence of smell in an intimate place and its intensification during hygiene procedures, after sex.
6. 6 Intensity of pelvic pain.
7. 7 Whether any self-treatment was carried out. This may impair diagnosis.

Then the examination is carried out on the chair. It is carried out even during menstruation. Girls with pathological discharge should be examined in the presence of parents. Girls who have not had sexual relations are examined bimanually through the rectum. Inspection of the vagina is performed without mirrors, so as not to damage the hymen.

During the examination, pay attention to the condition of the mucous membrane, its swelling and hyperemia. White plaque can be tightly attached to the walls of the vagina, and when you try to separate it with a spatula, bleeding appears. Such symptoms are characteristic of candidiasis.

The main stage of diagnosis is. This technique allows you to identify fungi, gardnerella, Trichomonas, gonococci and prescribe the appropriate treatment. In some cases, bacteriological culture and PCR diagnostics are required (complex real-time PCR, Femoflor test).

9. What can be treated?

The correct treatment tactics depends on the causative agent of the infection:

1. 1 Vulvovaginal candidiasis should be treated with antifungal agents. If the entrance to the vagina is very itchy, then you can eliminate the itching with the help of local remedies. For the treatment of thrush, candles Clotrimazole, Pimafucin, Miconazole, Butoconazole are most often used. Inside, you can use Fluconazole (Difluzon, Diflucan, Flucostat).
2. 2 Bacterial vaginosis should be treated with antibiotics. Metronidazole (Trichopolum), Tinidazole are effective. They are used in the form of tablets (orally, orally) or in the form of a vaginal form (gel, vaginal suppositories, capsules).
3. 3 With trichomoniasis appoint Metronidazole, Ornidazole, Tinidazole. Both sexual partners should be treated. Trichomonas vaginitis often becomes chronic, then recurs. Therefore, the effectiveness of treatment must be confirmed by PCR 30 days after the end of the course.
4. 4 In chlamydia and mycoplasmosis, the most effective are macrolides (Josamycin, Azithromycin) and Doxycycline (Unidox Solutab, course - 1 week).
5. 5 Vaginitis and cervicitis caused by opportunistic bacteria are treated with vaginal suppositories, gels containing broad-spectrum antibiotics (Polygynax, Terzhinan, Clindamycin) and antiseptics (Hexicon, Fluomizin, Betadine). The average course duration is 7-10 days.

After a course of antibiotics and antimycotics, it is recommended to restore the balance of the vaginal microflora. In case of recurrent candidiasis, it is necessary to isolate a culture of fungi, determine their sensitivity to drugs, look for the cause of a decrease in immunity and eliminate it.

At different periods of the monthly cycle, a woman may experience discharge that differs in consistency and quantity. Depending on the general condition of the body, their smell and color may also change. But if in the middle of the cycle, mucus is actively secreted from the vagina, or there are more unusual discharges, this often makes a woman worry. After all, it is always important to know whether such a condition is normal, and whether these manifestations are a sign of a developing disease. Below we will talk about why stretching discharges appear in the form of mucus, and also when white stretching discharge in women can be evidence of pathology.

Why does mucous secretion appear?

Why do abundant mucous discharges appear in women, what is it, and is it normal - such questions at certain periods of life become relevant for almost every woman. Normally, slightly white mucous discharge in women appears in small quantities. They are opaque, as there are epithelial cells in the vagina, which gradually acquire a yellow-white tint on linen throughout the day. Before menstruation, mucous discharge may be more abundant, after menstruation for several days they have a pinkish tint.

When is mucous discharge normal?

During the monthly cycle, the secretion of mucus in women in different periods occurs in different ways. Therefore, it is important to know in which cases the discharge is related to physiology and indicates a normal state of health.

The volume and consistency of secretions may vary due to such factors:

• period of the monthly cycle. During the entire cycle, there are changes in the consistency and volume of mucus. In its first half, the discharge is colorless and liquid, in the second it is more viscous, “snotty”. Just before menstruation, they become creamy and acquire a sour smell. After menstruation, the amount of mucus is reduced, the smell disappears.
• Age. In girls, up to about ten years of age, separation from the vagina does not appear at all, since her eggs have not yet matured, and there are no cyclical changes yet. But if a little girl has discharge in the form of white clots, mixed with pus or blood, you need to urgently consult a doctor - a pediatric gynecologist.
• . With menopause, women are often worried about vaginal dryness, which manifests itself due to a sharp reduction in mucus separation due to a decrease in the amount of the hormone. Therefore, during menopause, very little mucus is released.
• Treatment with hormones and taking oral contraceptives. When using such drugs, mucus in some women is excreted in smaller quantities than usual.
• Strong stress . With constant fatigue and stress, or after experienced stress, vaginal dryness is often noted. Therefore, the volume of transparent mucus decreases.
• Sexual intercourse. Before sexual contact, the amount of discharge increases dramatically.
• . Watery discharge after conception becomes more abundant. During pregnancy, the nature of the discharge changes.
• Consequences of childbirth. Lochia - of blood and mucus are gradually replaced by clear mucus.
• . During lactation, it is actively produced. Mucus during this period is less.

More details about the discharge in different periods of a woman's life will be discussed below.

Discharge during ovulation

In the first phase of the monthly cycle, very abundant discharge of a transparent color, as a rule, does not appear. But then, at the ovulatory stage, the mucus in the cervical canal liquefies. It becomes viscous and viscous to make it easier for sperm to enter the uterine cavity.

Therefore, during the period when a woman ovulates - approximately on the 12-16th day of the cycle, light transparent discharges are replaced by viscous, stretching and thicker ones. During ovulation, more transparent mucous secretions are noted in women, like egg white, sometimes jelly-like. The fact that there are many such whites, the woman notes for several days. In addition, sometimes during ovulation there is pain or a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen. These feelings go away after a few days.

During ovulation, pink discharge may appear. This is due to a slight release of blood, as a result of rupture of the follicle. Such manifestations should not be frightening and alarming, provided that they pass in a day or two.

After ovulation, the clear mucous discharge from the vagina becomes sticky and sticky again. After ovulation, the functioning of the female reproductive system determines the hormone, therefore, at this time, the discharge is less abundant. But at the same time, the mucus becomes thicker. Sometimes in the second half of the cycle, the discharge from the vagina is so meager that the woman may think that she has no discharge.

But if white discharge appears after ovulation, and at the same time discomfort is felt in the genital area, development can be suspected. In this case, it is better to ask a specialist about why women have white mucus.

Before sexual contact

The causes of clear mucous discharge in women and girls can also be associated with strong arousal. Immediately before sexual contact, when aroused, their number increases, as well as after sexual contact. In most cases, clear, odorless vaginal mucus irritates the genitals without causing itching or burning. Such manifestations are completely normal.

In the second half of the cycle

During this period, after ovulation , the discharge is normally more meager, they have a creamy consistency. Often, clear discharge before menstruation becomes more abundant again - this happens 2-3 days before menstruation. A woman needs to worry only if whites with a smell appear, pronounced white or yellow-green. This may indicate the onset of an inflammatory process or other pathological conditions. Therefore, if you are concerned about leucorrhea with a smell, a strange consistency and color, it is better to immediately contact a doctor.

Thus, throughout the cycle, the nature of the discharge changes. Immediately after menstruation, transparent mucus from the uterus practically does not appear, that is, immediately after menstruation, the so-called “dry” period begins. During ovulation, the mucus becomes like egg white. In the second period of the cycle, the discharge again becomes sticky and sticky. And just before menstruation, clear liquid discharge appears in women, like water.

If there is a delay in menstruation, then instead of menstruation, mucous discharge also appears. After all, during pregnancy, there is also discharge.

During pregnancy

Often, when a pregnant woman secretes mucus from the vagina in the form of snot, a woman begins to seriously worry about whether her process of bearing a baby is proceeding normally. To do this, it is important to know the features of such manifestations at each stage of pregnancy.

Up to 12 weeks, the work of the reproductive system determines progesterone , under the influence of which mucous secretions appear - like "snot" from the vagina. Such, transparent as snot, discharges are considered as a sign of the onset of pregnancy.

But already from the 13th week, transparent discharges, like snot, odorless, become more liquid and plentiful, as the hormone activity phase begins. Normally, mucous discharges like snot in women do not cause discomfort, they are odorless. If slightly stretchy, egg white-like, slightly whitish, but still uniform, this is normal.

Provided that the mucus is secreted too intensively, it is worth using daily pads. It is better not to use tampons during pregnancy.

Pregnant women often develop candidiasis , .

Too strong leucorrhoea, in which lumps, flakes, clots are determined, as well as very intense white discharge, like snot, with curdled inclusions and an unpleasant odor, and also if the lower abdomen hurts, this is a reason to contact your gynecologist. He will determine why this is happening and prescribe the correct treatment. After all, this condition can lead to termination of pregnancy.

Mucous discharge instead of menstruation

Often a woman has abundant discharge before menstruation. But, despite the fact that the answer to the question of whether white discharge before menstruation can be normal is positive, it is important not to miss the onset of a developing disease. If the departments have acquired an unpleasant odor or any symptoms develop that alarm the woman, you should not delay contacting a doctor.

It happens that even on the days when menstruation is supposed to begin, a woman has white discharge instead of menstruation. If at the same time there are no unpleasant sensations, then it is quite possible that we are talking about a slight delay, and menstruation will soon begin. But if the compartments are curdled, white-yellow, causing itching and burning, then, most likely, candidiasis or an infectious disease develops.

Sometimes abundant white discharge before menstruation is evidence of pregnancy. This is a kind of protective reaction of the body - mucus should protect the uterus from infections.

Also, this is possible with hormonal and endocrine disorders, after severe stress or after too intense physical exertion. But in this case, it is still better to consult a doctor and make sure that everything is fine with your health.

The development of pathological processes should be suspected if the smell of mucus becomes sharp, sour and unpleasant. It can also smell like rotten fish. Such manifestations are typical for bacterial vaginitis or other sexually transmitted diseases. With sexual infections, transparent stretching mucous discharge in men can also appear, so the representatives of the stronger sex in this case will also need an urgent doctor's consultation.

If the abundant discharge changes color and becomes yellowish-green or saturated yellow, sometimes the lower abdomen hurts, this also indicates the development of unpleasant diseases. Even if the pain in the lower abdomen rarely appears, but the color of the mucus has changed dramatically, it is better to consult a doctor.

If a woman after forty years of age has very abundant watery compartments or mucus, like jelly, this should also alert. The doctor will be able to determine whether the discharge is like jelly, whether it is a pathology or a norm, after examination and analysis.

Mucous compartments gradually change their character with thrush - they become white, curdled. At the same time, discomfort, itching, and periodic burning develop. In this case, the use of antifungal drugs will be required. It is possible that the sexual partner will have to undergo such therapy as well.

In any period, except for menstruation, a woman should be alarmed by why there are discharges with blood impurities. This may be evidence of dangerous diseases.

Thus, if for a long time the daily amount of mucus exceeds the volume of one teaspoon, if the color of the compartments changes to yellow, green, brown or red and a bad smell appears, it is necessary to visit a doctor. Symptoms that should alert are also pain in the lower abdomen, itching and redness of the genitals, fever. If at least some of these symptoms bother a woman, it is important to get an examination. After all, we can talk about inflammatory diseases, genital infections, cysts , erosion and etc.

conclusions

Mucous discharge from the vagina in a woman is a physiological and absolutely normal phenomenon. But at the same time, it is very important to carefully monitor whether their character changes and whether symptoms appear that are alarming. It should be understood that the sooner a woman, in the presence of alarming signs, turns to a gynecologist, the sooner the treatment prescribed by the doctor will work.

If there are certain doubts about whether everything is normal with the discharge from the vagina, or if previously uncharacteristic phenomena, for example, mucus during menstruation, are periodically disturbed, it is worth taking a smear test. Provided that the amount is not more than the norm and the flora is dominated by sticks, you can not worry about inflammation.

Every woman must follow the rules of intimate hygiene. Mom needs to teach girls this in a timely manner. Indeed, with the wrong approach to hygiene, mucus will accumulate on the genitals, and pathogenic microorganisms will multiply in it.

Minasyan Margarita

Vaginal discharge in women is a consequence of the occurrence of certain processes in the body. Mucus from the cervical canal performs important functions of the reproductive system. And according to the state of the fluid released, it is possible to diagnose a violation at an early stage of development.

What discharge in women is considered normal

There is no clear picture of what a healthy woman's discharge should be. However, doctors argue that the rate of discharge in women has the following relative characteristics:

1. Volume. A few milliliters per day, but not more than 5 ml. You can determine by daily pads, on which the stain should not exceed 1 or 1.5 cm in diameter.
2. Consistency. . Fairly thick but no lumps. Watery are allowed only in a certain period of the cycle, during pregnancy and with strong arousal.
3. Structure. Homogeneous without lumps, large clots or flakes. Minor seals up to 4 mm are allowed.
4. Aroma. due to the environment of the vagina, but more often the smell is completely absent.

To assess your condition, you need to study what color the selection should be:

• transparent;
• white;
• beige;
• yellow.

The importance of the secret and its composition

Many women try to get rid of any vaginal discharge, considering it to be unnatural and pathological. But cervical fluid or mucus plays an important role in the functioning of the reproductive system and maintaining women's health.

The vaginal secret normally has the following composition:

1. Cellular and fluid components. The uterine mucosa is constantly updated, old cells die off, join the vaginal discharge fluid and go outside. Plasma and lymph transudate may be present.
2. Mucus of the cervical canal. The cervix contains special glands that produce secretion, thereby protecting the reproductive system from the penetration and further reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms.
3. Bacteria and fungi of the vaginal flora. The sexual microflora contains not only useful lactobacilli, but also conditionally harmful microorganisms in a small amount. In a healthy girl, these pathogens die and come out along with the vaginal secretion.
4. Leukocytes. According to their content, it is possible to diagnose the presence of an inflammatory process. Limit of norm - 10 pcs. in a smear, but minor deviations are allowed.

Women's secretions have many functions:

• self-cleaning of the vagina;
• maintaining a healthy microflora;
• fight against harmful bacteria, bacilli, fungi;
• natural hydration during intercourse;
• removal of dead cells;
• protection of the fetus during pregnancy.

The most important purpose of the vaginal secret is the early warning of a woman about adverse processes in the reproductive system.

What affects the vaginal secretion

Ovulation. The fertile period is characterized by the release of a large amount of fluid, which is easily stretched between the fingers, resembling snot or egg white. Mucus can be white, transparent, beige. Sometimes there is an admixture of blood, which indicates a favorable moment of conception.

second phase of the cycle. The vaginal secret becomes much less, sometimes it disappears altogether. The liquid has a creamy or jelly-like consistency.

A few days before menstruation, spotting is allowed, which signal the approach of monthly bleeding.

The nature of normal discharge in women (photo above) is modified according to the time of the cycle, but this is not the rule for every case. Sometimes they continue to be produced in large quantities and remain liquid without discomfort, which indicates a hormonal surge or lack of progesterone.

Reasons for minor deviations

It is important to find out what discharge is considered normal from the vagina under certain conditions. Change the nature of secretion without the presence of diseases of the reproductive system can:

• pregnancy;
• premenopause;
• menopause;
• recent birth of a child;
• lactation period;
• taking birth control pills;
• treatment with certain drugs.

Depending on the specific cause, the consistency, amount and color of natural secretions in women change, but not for long. You should consult a doctor if the fluid from the vagina has an unpleasant odor or has other symptoms, such as itching, burning, severe pain.

How to identify a disease

The most common cause of pathological discharge in women is a violation of the vaginal microbiocenosis. Causes changes in the normal functioning of the microflora of the vagina, non-observance of hygiene of the genital organs or excessive douching with water or special solutions.

And also the problems of self-cleaning of the vagina arise against the background of:

• use of antibiotics;
• hormonal treatment;
• taking oral contraceptives;
• diabetes;
• weakened immunity.

It is advisable to study the nature of the discharge in girls in terms of color and smell, since these two signs will help to understand what is happening in the body and whether there is a reason to contact a gynecologist and pass the necessary tests.

Even colorless mucus from the vagina can indicate certain disorders:
Inflammation of the endometrium or appendages. The amount of cervical fluid with an unpleasant odor increases against the background of endometritis and andexitis. In advanced cases, the mucus contains blood clots.

Dysbiosis. The disease is accompanied by redness of the external genital organs, abundant watery fluid from the vagina,.

White

The type of vaginal discharge in women plays a significant role in the study of the current state of the reproductive system. Knowing the features of a normal secret from the vagina, it is possible to detect the disease at an early stage in time and, with the help of a doctor, choose a treatment.

The nature of vaginal discharge directly depends on the state of the reproductive organs. If inflammatory or infectious processes begin to develop in them, this immediately leads to a change in their consistency, color and smell. And it is very important to pay attention to such changes in time in order to prevent the development of serious complications. And in order to understand what signs may indicate the occurrence of pathologies, first you need to know exactly what arenormal discharge in women, because their character under the influence of certain physiological conditions can also change.

Natural secretions

Talking about what should be the selectionin women, it should be noted that normal vaginal secretion consists of:

• dead epithelial cells.
• Leukocytes.
• Mucus produced by the gonads.

It is for this reason that the vaginal secretion has a mucous consistency. However, it is produced in very small quantities and is almost invisible to a woman. As for the color of the discharge, they can be white, transparent or milky. Depending on external factors, the level of leukocytes in them constantly rises or falls, as a result of which the vaginal secret periodically changes its shade.

Important! Speaking about what kind of vaginal discharge a healthy woman should have, it should be said that their appearance should not be supplemented by a specific smell or burning sensation in the vagina, since these signs always indicate the development of pathological conditions.

However, the nature of the secretions depends not only on the level of leukocytes in them, but also on the hormonal background, the change of which occurs several times in one menstrual cycle. The first time a hormonal surge occurs immediately after menstruation and is characterized by increased production of progesterone. It is under its influence that the maturation of the follicle occurs. And when it reaches full maturation, ovulation occurs, during which an egg is released from the follicle.

In addition, progesterone helps to thin the cervical mucus, which is why in the middle of the cycle a woman may notice an increase in vaginal discharge (in their consistency, they can even become like water). Moreover, they may also contain ichor, which occurs as a result of rupture of the follicle and damage to its small capillaries. However, it is observed, as a rule, not for long - only a couple of hours.

If during the period of ovulation a woman did not have unprotected sexual intercourse and the fertilization of the egg did not occur, then the production of progesterone decreases and estrogen begins to be actively produced instead, which prepares the ovaries and uterus for the upcoming menstruation. It becomes especially active a few days before the onset of menstruation. At the same time, women have not only abundant mucous secretions, but bloody streaks, the volume of which gradually increases, after which menstruation begins.

And talking aboutwhat is normal vaginal discharge in women, it should be noted that, regardless of the physiological processes occurring in the body, they do not smell, do not cause irritation and do not require the use of sanitary pads.

If pregnancy occurs, how does the nature of the discharge change?

If an egg is fertilized during ovulation, the level of progesterone in the body rises even more. This is due to the fact that it is this hormone that ensures the maintenance of pregnancy and the normal formation of the embryo. Therefore, in the early stages of gestation, women often have a liquid transparent or whitish discharge.

At the same time, after 6-7 days from the moment of conception, the fertilized egg reaches the uterus and attaches to its walls. As a result of this, damage to small vessels and capillaries also occurs, which causes spotting bleeding. However, they should not be considered by a woman as a sign of deviation. They do not last long and on the same day they stop. And to eliminate the feeling of moisture in the perineum, it is enough just to use a daily pad.

It should also be noted thatnormal vaginal discharge that occurs during pregnancy, should not provoke irritation in the intimate area, even despite their abundance. In large quantities, they can stand out throughout the first trimester, and in the second trimester their volume decreases and they become almost invisible.

But already in the third trimester at 32-34 weeks of gestation, the body again increases the production of progesterone, due to which the vaginal secretion again begins to be released in large quantities. It is due to the increased concentration of progesterone in the body that the tone of the uterus weakens and it prepares for the upcoming birth.

In the last stages of pregnancy, a woman should pay special attention to vaginal discharge, since it is precisely by their nature that she can predict the imminent opening of labor. As a rule, before childbirth, there is a discharge of the so-called plug, which is formed in the cervical canal even in the first stages of pregnancy. It has a slimy texture, a whitish hue, possibly containing blood streaks in it. As soon as the cork comes out of the cervix, amniotic fluid begins to drain and contractions begin.

Important! If a woman notices the exit of the mucous plug, she should immediately call an ambulance, without waiting for the discharge of amniotic fluid. Since for some women, even the first childbirth is rapid, against which some complications may occur, which affects not only women's health, but also the health of the newborn.

Since the onset of pregnancy is often accompanied by various complications, a woman must definitely know how they can manifest themselves. The following conditions should be of concern:

1. The opening of bleeding and the appearance of severe cramping pains in the abdomen. If at the same time a blood clot is also noted, then this already indicates a miscarriage and requires an immediate medical examination.
2. The appearance of a brown daub, accompanied by weakness and pulling pains in the abdomen. This condition is a signal of placental abruption and a threat of miscarriage. If in this case, medical assistance was received in a timely manner, there are all chances to save the pregnancy.

Ectopic pregnancy

With the onset of an ectopic pregnancy, the nature of the vaginal discharge also changes. It not only begins to stand out abundantly, but also acquire a brown or pink color. A brown daub is observed not only for the first day, as in the case of implantation bleeding, but until the pregnancy is terminated. At the same time, pains appear in the left or right side of a pulling nature, and an increase in temperature is also observed.

Important! An ectopic pregnancy is a dangerous condition that is characterized by the attachment of the fetal egg to the fallopian tube. And since it grows very quickly, it can lead to rupture of the tube and internal bleeding.

Does vaginal discharge change after childbirth?

After childbirth, the female body begins to gradually recover and return to its previous “mode” of work. However, this does not happen quickly. In the postpartum period, all women undergo a cleansing of the uterus, which is manifested by profuse uterine bleeding. It is noted for about 2-3 weeks, after which the amount of bloody discharge decreases and they are first replaced by pink, and then scanty brown discharge.

And speaking of how much postpartum cleansing is observed, it should be said that on average this process takes from 7 to 9 weeks. Then the secretion of blood stops and whites appear instead.

If a woman is breastfeeding, the discharge may also be large and runny, white, clear, or creamy. This is due to the increased production of prolactin in the body, which ensures the production of breast milk. As soon as lactation stops, the woman's menstrual cycle is restored and vaginal discharge becomes the same as it was before pregnancy.

How does vaginal discharge change after age 40?

After the age of 40, every woman in her body begins to actively develop aging processes, which lead to the extinction of reproductive functions (menopause occurs). Naturally, this also affects the nature of vaginal discharge. As hormone production decreases, the amount of cervical mucus also decreases. Therefore, during this period, it may seem to women that they have completely stopped producing a vaginal secret. But it's not. It is released, but in very small quantities.

At the same time, a woman also has other symptoms of menopause:

• Menstruation becomes irregular (frequent delays are noted).
• The nature of menstruation changes (it becomes either plentiful or scarce).
• Increases sweating.
• Hot flashes are noted.
• There are frequent jumps in blood pressure.
• There are psychological disorders (insomnia, tearfulness, irritability, etc.).

As soon as the reproductive function completely fades away, postmenopause occurs, which is characterized by the absence of menstruation and the normalization of the general condition.

What discharge can be signs of pathologies?

Every girl and woman should know how the pathologies of the organs of the reproductive system manifest themselves in order to seek medical help in a timely manner. With their development, the nature of vaginal discharge almost always changes.

Conventionally, all gynecological diseases are divided into 3 types:

• inflammatory;
• oncological;
• infectious.

Inflammatory diseases include erosion, endometritis, cervicitis, oophoritis and others. Their development has a similar clinical picture:

• drawing pains in the abdomen;
• brown or bloody spotting.

To get rid of these diseases, you will need to undergo a special course of treatment, which involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. If the general clinical picture is supplemented by an increase in temperature, then this already indicates the late stages of the development of diseases and the addition of a bacterial infection to them, requiring an antibacterial course of treatment.

Oncological diseases include:

• crayfish;
• uterine fibroids;
• polyps.

A distinctive feature of these diseases is that their development is asymptomatic. The only thing is that with these pathologies, some women begin to smear brown from the vagina after a mechanical effect on the cervical canal and uterus (for example, after sex).

However, the development of cancer has a slightly different symptomatology. When it occurs, women experience severe abdominal pain, dark brown (almost black) discharge, in which clots may appear, indicating the beginning of rejection of the affected epithelium.

Important! Cancer is a disease that develops rapidly and can be fatal in a few months. Therefore, it is impossible to delay the visit to the doctor and treatment.

As for infectious diseases, the role of their provocateurs is:

• gonococci;
• chlamydia;
• staphylococci;
• streptococci;
• fungi, etc.

If a woman develops STDs, then they experience the following symptoms:

• Vaginal discharge becomes greenish or yellowish.
• From the intimate area it can smell like rotten fish or a missing egg.