White discharge: what can be and what to do

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 alteration in the 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 he can recommend the best treatment.

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 milk-like 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 contact intimate 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. Get a better understanding of how candidiasis is treated.

2. Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is a change in normal vaginal flora, where there is a greater development of the Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria, 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 Gardnerella vaginalis infection 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. White discharge before menstruation

It is normal that before menstruating the woman has white and thick discharge, being considered part of the menstrual cycle. This discharge has no smell, is not associated with any other symptoms and appears with the objective of preventing the displacement of sperm and subsequent fertilization of the egg and also as a way of protecting the woman's body and promoting lubrication.

However, if yellow, brown or pink discharge appears in the menstruation period, 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 what each color of vaginal discharge means.

Care to avoid white discharge

As the white discharge can be indicative of infections, it is important that the woman has some care to avoid changes in the vaginal microbiota and development of the infection, such as:

1. Avoid wearing damp or wet underwear; Do not wear synthetic panties, opting for cotton garments; Wear light clothing and avoid tight jeans and shorts; Avoid sweet foods and rich in carbohydrates, as they decrease immunity enhancing the appearance of infections; do not use the vaginal douching directly on the genital region and wash the outer region of the vagina using an intimate soap; sleep without panties; after evacuating, always clean from the front to the back, to prevent bacteria feces enter the vagina and cause infections.

In addition, perfumed baby wipes or scented toilet paper can also harm a woman's intimate health, increasing the risk of developing infections. Check how intimate hygiene should be done to avoid infections.