Vaginal discharge is a problem that often occurs and is quite annoying for most women. Leucorrhoea or vaginal discharge is a normal thing experienced by women. This discharge is the body's way of keeping the vagina clean and moist and protecting it from infection.
It doesn't only happen to adult women, teenage girls also experience it. In most cases, vaginal discharge is normal. However, there are certain conditions that make vaginal discharge in women abnormal. This usually indicates a problem with the reproductive organs.
So, what are the differences between normal and abnormal vaginal discharge?
Difference between Normal and Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Women need to pay attention to the texture, shape and aroma of vaginal fluids to maintain reproductive health. This helps detect potential diseases early. Here are some important points in understanding whether vaginal discharge is normal or not:
- Causes of Vaginal Discharge
Normal vaginal discharge is also often caused by hormonal changes before menstruation, pregnancy, stress, and sexual urges. Meanwhile, the common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge are bacterial infections, viruses, parasites or uncontrolled fungal growth. In addition, some sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can also be characterized by vaginal discharge. If this happens, you should immediately seek treatment. - Texture
Normal vaginal discharge generally has a slightly watery or slightly thick and sticky texture due to hormonal fluctuations. However, when the vagina is infected, the consistency of the fluid can become lumpy like tofu dregs or cottage cheese, often accompanied by foam. Vaginal discharge that resembles tofu dregs is not normal and usually accompanies itching in the vaginal area. - Color
One of the simplest ways to differentiate whether vaginal discharge is normal or not is to check the color. Ideally, vaginal fluid should be clear or transparent, cloudy white. White, milky vaginal discharge is generally normal, unless accompanied by other symptoms such as vaginal itching. On the other hand, abnormal vaginal discharge can have a dark yellow, green, or even dark gray color. Brown vaginal discharge can be normal or not, depending on the presence of other symptoms that may be experienced. - Smell
It is true that the fluid released from the vagina has a naturally sour aroma. However, the aroma should not be too strong or bothersome. If you smell fishy or even rotten in your vaginal fluids, you may have a vaginal infection. Vaginal infections can be caused by various factors, ranging from sexually transmitted infections, lack of hygiene in intimate areas, to certain diseases. - Symptoms of Vaginal Discharge
The accompanying symptoms can also provide an indication of whether the fluid coming out of the vagina is normal or not. Itching during vaginal discharge is common, but should not be significantly bothersome. In fact, you may only realize the existence of the liquid when you see it directly. In addition, with vaginal discharge that occurs during pregnancy, you may feel a warm sensation in the vaginal area due to the growth of bacteria there. On the other hand, abnormal vaginal discharge may not initially cause other symptoms. However, as time goes by, you may start to experience other symptoms, such as pain when urinating or having sexual intercourse.
By understanding the difference between normal and abnormal vaginal discharge, as well as the symptoms, women can better understand their reproductive health conditions. It is important not to ignore signs of abnormal vaginal discharge and seek medical help immediately if necessary. In this way, we can maintain vaginal health and prevent more serious problems in the future.
Article written by dr. Ervina Ningsih, Sp.OG (Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology at EMC Pulomas Hospital).