Vaginal discharge is an essential part of a woman's physiology. They help maintain the health of the reproductive system, moisturize the mucous membrane, and protect it from infections. However, a change in their color, texture, smell, or volume can be a sign of gynecological diseases. Let's look at seven common diseases that affect the type of discharge. 1. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) Bacterial vaginosis (https://www.thewomenschoice.com/bacterial-vaginosis/) is caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microflora. An increase in opportunistic bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis leads to inflammation. The main symptom of BV is a grayish discharge with an unpleasant "fishy smell" that increases after intercourse. Sometimes, it can cause itch, but usually, there is no pain. Causes: - Excessive use of intimate hygiene - Multiple sexual partners - Antibiotic treatment 2. Yeast infection Yeast infection is caused by an excessive proliferation of fungi of the genus Candida, which are normally present in the vaginal microflora. Yeast infection is characterized by thick, white, cheesy discharge accompanied by severe itching, burning, and redness of the mucous membrane. Causes: - Weakening of the immune system - Diabetes mellitus - Antibiotics or hormonal contraceptives 3. Trichomoniasis It is a sexually transmitted infectious disease caused by the single-celled microorganism Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis discharge is often yellow-green, foamy, and has an unpleasant smell. Itching, burning, and pain during urination and intercourse may occur. Infection occurs through unprotected sexual contact. Without treatment, the disease can lead to serious complications, including infertility. 4. Cervicitis Cervicitis is an inflammation of the cervix caused by infection, injury, or chemical irritants. In people with cervicitis, there is abundant mucus-purulent discharge with an unpleasant odor. In the acute stage, pain in the abdomen and bleeding after intercourse may occur. Causes: - Sexual infections (gonorrhea, chlamydia). - Mechanical damage (like when using an intrauterine device). 5. Endometriosis Endometriosis is characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Although the disease is most often accompanied by pain, it can also affect the type of discharge. Endometriosis can cause bloody or brownish discharge before menstruation and spotting in the middle of the cycle. In severe cases, the discharge can be heavy and persistent. The exact causes of endometriosis are unclear but are thought to be related to hormonal imbalances and genetic predisposition. 6. Chlamydia Chlamydia is an infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. The disease is often asymptomatic, but in some cases, it causes changes in the flow. Chlamydia can lead to thick mucopurulent discharge, sometimes mixed with blood. It is often accompanied by discomfort during urination. The most important route of infection is sexual. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. 7. Cervical cancer In later stages, cancer can show up as changes in discharge. It can manifest through watery discharge with an unpleasant odor, sometimes mixed with blood. In advanced cases, the discharge may become purulent. The main risk factor is long-term infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). Diagnosis and treatment For an accurate diagnosis and determination of the cause of abnormal discharge, a consultation with a gynecologist is necessary. The main diagnostic methods include: - Examination of microflora - Colposcopy - Ultrasound of the pelvic organs - Biopsy (if cancer is suspected) The treatment depends on the diagnosed disease. For example: - For bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis, local antimicrobial drugs are prescribed. - Sexual infections require systemic antibiotic treatment. - Endometriosis is treated with hormone medication or surgery. Prevention of gynecological diseases - Pay attention to hygiene: avoid aggressive cleaning agents and use special gels for the intimate area. - Use of barrier contraceptives: Condoms reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. - Regular check-ups: A visit to the gynecologist once a year helps to detect diseases at an early stage. - Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, smoking cessation, and moderate physical activity strengthen the immune system. The bottom line A change in the discharge can be a sign of serious gynecological diseases. Women should pay attention to their health, not ignore symptoms, and consult a doctor. Only timely diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and maintain reproductive health.