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What causes the changes in vaginal discharge?

by — Last updated: 2017-10-06 in Women's Health
Reviewed by Medical Team — 2017-09-25

Table of Contents

Glands inside vagina and cervix normally make small amounts of fluid, which flows out of the vagina each day in the form of vaginal discharge, carrying out old cells that once lined the walls of the vagina.

Changes in vaginal discharge can occur if the normal balance of healthy germs in your vagina is upset. Many things can disturb the balance of a healthy vagina, including douching, feminine hygiene sprays, certain soaps or bubble baths, antibiotics, diabetes, pregnancy, or infections, as you’ve already read. Vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, and trichomoniasis are common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge. Some infections are transmitted sexually, such as gonorrhea, while others can occur with or without having sex, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection. Although the symptoms of these infections can be very similar, there are some differences.

  • Yeast infections may cause your discharge to become white and thick, resembling cottage cheese formations. A yeast infection usually does not cause a strong odor, but it may cause severe itching and burning as the main symptom. [4]
  • Bacterial vaginosis (BV) can cause your discharge to be heavier than usual. The fluids may become foamy or frothy, and grayish, with an unpleasant fishy odor. [3]
  • Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease, and it may cause a musty, stale odor. If this happens, the discharge may become grayish or yellow-green and may thicken. It could also often cause vaginal itching and pain during urination. [5]

If you have any symptoms of abnormal vaginal discharge, it is essential to see a doctor or visit a clinic, especially for girls who have recently had sex without using a condom. Many sexually transmitted diseases cause changes in vaginal discharge or can cause other infections that affect discharge as well.

How Can Douching Be Harmful to the Vagina and Cause Vaginal Discharge?

In the United States, almost one in five women 15 to 44 years old douche. Doctors recommend that you do not douche because the chemicals in douches may irritate the vagina and change the normal balance of germs. Douching can also spread an infection into the uterus, increasing your risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. This is an infection of the of the female reproductive organs, and it usually occurs when sexually transmitted bacteria spread from your vagina to your uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries, and can cause infertility and other serious conditions. [6]

Douching is not necessary to keep your body clean. Smells you may notice usually come from outside the vagina or your vulva. You should keep this area clean with gentle soap and water to prevent smells.
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