Vaginal Discharge -- What's Normal and What Isn't

Vaginal Discharge The topic of vaginal discharge is an uncomfortable one. Because so few women are willing to really discuss this topic, it's common to find many women having a hard time telling the difference between a healthy discharge and an abnormal one. While most discharge is normal, there are some circumstances in which this discharge is abnormal and can indicate a deeper or more serious issue. What is Vaginal Discharge? And what is vaginal discharge, really? The topic is so sensitive that many women aren't even really sure of what it is and what its purpose is. It's important to know what it is and when it's abnormal. There are two types of normal discharge: - Cyclical: occurs before and after menstruation. It's thick, white, and odorless. - Ovulation: occurs during ovulation. It's clear and stretchy. But there are also different types of abnormal discharge. Depending on its characteristics, it can indicate different problems: - Candidiasis, or yeast infection: thick, white, cottage cheese-like consistency, yeasty vaginal discharge odor. - Trichomoniasis: Copious, green and frothy. - Gonorrhea: Creamy white or yellow; odorless. - Chlamydia: Pus with a strong, foul odor. - Bacterial vaginosis: thin; white, grey, or green, with a strong, fishy odor. White Vaginal Discharge Now that you know what it is, let's look at the specific problem of white vaginal discharge. As you can see, some white discharges are normal. But what differentiates a normal discharge and an abnormal one is discharge odor. If you have a problem with discharge that's a normal color, the odor can let you know if there’s a problem or not. Recurrent bacterial vaginosis is a common source of this strong odor and discharge. If you experience bacterial vaginosis on a regular basis, your body may be warning you of other issues. You may want to consult a doctor. However, if you’re prescribed antibiotics, know this can throw off your natural balance even more, since antibiotics kill beneficial bacteria your body needs to be in its natural healthy state. With an improved diet consisting of less processed foods, minimizing vaginal contact to chemicals, dyes and perfumes, and beginning a daily regimen of probiotics, your symptoms should improve dramatically.* One of the common causes of bacterial vaginosis is an imbalance in natural vaginal bacterial levels. Probiotic health supplements, including probiotics vaginosis help restore a natural balance to your vaginal flora.* Bacterial vaginosis is not life-threatening, or even particularly physically uncomfortable, but it’s still an issue that needs to be addressed. With a daily regimen of the best probiotics, you'll be able to restore natural balance and maintain vaginal health.* The best probiotics for women to take for vaginal issues are the ones specially formulated for women’s health.* Some examples of probiotics for women include Nutraelle FemCare, Fem-Dophilus, and Ultimate Flora Vaginal Support (www.bestprobioticsforwomen.com). Disclaimer: Under Section 5 of DSHEA, the content material within this article or webpage is for consumer and educational purposes only. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.