The white or yellowish vaginal discharge is absolutely normal and is, in fact, a sign of a healthy vagina. The glands in your cervix eliminate the dead cells and bacteria through this white discharge. According to gynecologist in Thane Vartak Nagar, the amount of discharge and the color or odor can vary significantly, but it is mostly odorless and is milky-white color. 

The color could also vary depending on your menstrual cycle. Women who are sexually aroused, pregnant, and breastfeeding may notice a considerable amount of white discharge. No matter the cause, vaginal discharge is absolutely normal in women. However, if you notice a dark color, unusual odor, and itching or burning sensation in your vagina, it might be a cause of concern. 

What Causes Vaginal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge is linked to high levels of estrogen. It is common in girls who have reached adolescence or pregnant women. But, if you notice anything unusual in the amount, texture, or odor of the vaginal charge, it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Here are a few common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge:

  • Bacterial infection
  • Cervical cancer
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Yeast infection
  • Vaginal atrophy
  • Pelvic infection

The color of the discharge indicates the underlying medical condition. For instance, a bloody or brown discharge is a sign of an irregular menstrual cycle or endometrial cancer. Yellowish discharge is a sign of gonorrhea. If you notice a yellow or greenish discharge accompanied by a bad smell, it could be trichomoniasis. Gray, white, and light yellow discharge are often the signs of bacterial infection. The doctor might need a sample of your vaginal discharge and they might order pap tests to identify the underlying cause of the problem. 

How is it Treated?

Visit the best gynecologist in Currae Hospital Thane to diagnose the cause of the vaginal discharge and get an appropriate treatment plan. The treatment depends on the cause of the discharge. For example, if you are diagnosed with a yeast infection, you will be given antifungal medication. For other conditions, pills and a gel might be sufficient. 

A gynecologist will be able to detect the cause of infection and recommend the most suitable treatment. They might conduct a biopsy to get a better view of the pelvis area. In the meantime, here are some ways to prevent vaginal infection:

  • Use a gentle soap or any cleaning solution to wash your vagina. Make sure you don’t put the soap inside the vagina. Wash the outside area gently to keep it clean and prevent unpleasant odor.
  • Avoid bubble baths and don’t use the spray near the vagina
  • Do not wear tight underpants

Most types of vaginal discharge (in milky-white color) are harmless. Nearly every woman experiences the liquid discharge at some point in her menstrual cycle. However, if it occurs with itchiness, a foul odor, a changed color, or a thicker consistency, you should see a doctor immediately. It might indicate a serious condition, like shedding of the uterine lining or cervical cancer.