Durban Gynae Clinic

Vaginal Discharge - Answers From Your Durban Gynae Clinic

Every woman experiences vaginal discharge as a normal part of her life. When normal, it is a clear, and sometimes whitish, fluid that slowly secretes from the vagina. Here are tips and insights from your Durban Gynae Clinic to help you understand your body’s natural, healthy discharge.

Durban Gynae Clinic Tip #1 – Normal Discharge

Discharge is a natural, normal daily occurrence, but there can be unhealthy discharges as well.
There is no “standard” amount of vaginal discharge, and it will differ from woman to woman. You might experience discharge on some days and not on others or experience it daily. This pattern could change in your different phases of life.

Durban Gynae Clinic Tip #2 – Discharge Changes

Your discharge will have variations, but not all variations are signs of a problem. There could be a change in colour, viscosity or odour. When an infection does occur, there are instances where more than one infection can occur simultaneously.

Durban Gynae Clinic Tip #3 – Infection Causes

When an infection starts up, you might notice a change in the texture or odour of the discharge. Here is an overview of the infections, symptoms and treatments.

The Different Infections:

  • Yeast Infection – This is not initially “caught” from sexual intercourse encounters. If you or your partner are suffering from a current oral, vaginal or penile thrush infection, then you might pass it on to your partner. The discharge usually gets thicker, is opaque white and lumpy like chunky cottage cheese. You can purchase over-the-counter, specialised antifungal vaginal creams, and treatment ranges from 7 to 14 days. Your Durban Gynae Clinic can advise you which treatment period is appropriate.

  • Trichomoniasis – This is commonly called Trick and is a sexually transmitted disease. You can expect discharge colour changes of green, yellow or grey. The discharge texture may become frothy as well. Your Durban Gynae Clinic will treat this infection with an antibiotics prescription.

    • Bacterial vaginosis – Also called BV or Gardnerella, this contagious disease can come from unprotected sex. A partner can be a carrier of the bacteria without presenting symptoms. If symptoms are showing, they will be:
    • White or grey vaginal discharge that’s thin and fluid-like,
    • Discomfort, sensitivity or burning in and around the vagina,
    • A piquant, fish-like smell, which is more pronounced after sex,
    • High acidity levels in urine (burning).

      Book an appointment quickly with your Durban Gynae Clinic to get antibiotics or vaginal cream.

  • Gonorrhoea – Also called the Clap. This sexually transmitted disease can present with a cloudy or yellow discharge or, unfortunately, no symptoms. If untreated, there is a risk of the disease spreading to the pelvic region, causing inflammation and pain. It is extremely important that you visit your Durban Gynae Clinic urgently for antibiotic pills or injections.

  • Chlamydia – This is also a sexually transmitted disease that frequently has no symptoms. If symptoms are presenting, they could be:
    • Painful urination or sex,
    • Pain in the pelvic region,
    • Yellowish discharge with a stronger smell,
    • Bleeding (when it’s not your period),
    • Penile discharge: pus-like or watery and cloudy,
    • Enlarged, hyper-sensitive testicles,
    • Discomfort, discharge or bleeding in the anal region,

      Your Durban Gynae Clinic will prescribe antibiotics.
Conclusion

If you are ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact your trusted Durban Gynae Clinic. We are here to support your female health and wellness and are keen to share helpful information with you.