All You Need To Know About White Milky Discharge From The Vagina
Medical Internet portals are often abound with anxious comments by various women, who want to know the cause of their milky vaginal discharge. In women’s forums, one could easily come across hot debates on the nature of the origin of milky vaginal discharge. Portals where gynecologists offer pieces of advice online are also full of visitors arguing about whether white milky discharge is a sign of thrush or other diseases. In a word, this is a burning and pressing issue. It’s time to figure out all the facts.
The periodical odorless white milky discharge from the vagina, also known as leucorrhea, is a perfectly normal occurrence. According to Mayo Clinic’s official website (www.mayoclinic.com), this type of fluid is basically used to get rid of old and worn out vaginal wall cells. It is basically the body’s way of keeping the vagina healthy and clean. The discharge is commonly known to have a creamy-whitish shade though in some cases, especially during menstrual periods or during pregnancy, it can appear watery.
Cases of abnormal white milky discharge ‘down south,’ are known to be harmless. However, if in case of some infections (e.g yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis), the symptoms may grow into extremely uncomfortable sensations.
Causes
The production of white milky discharge from the vagina is a very common occurrence that can easily be addressed at home, however if in case of abnormal production trends, you may want to consult your doctor to ascertain whether you are pregnant, ovulating, or suffering from either of the following vaginal infections: yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis or vaginitis. Basically, there are two major categories of causes that researcher identify as being behind leucorrhea. These are:
*Hormonal changes
*Bacterial infections
Risk Factors
There are several lifestyle factors that are known to increase the risk of production of milky white discharge from the vagina. As a matter of precaution, one is advised to steer clear from such factors whenever possible.
Well, some risk factors are difficult to avoid, if you’re exposed to such (factors), it’s advisable to talk to a professional to receive the right kind of assistance and support.
Some of the known reasons behind the production of the milky white discharge from the vagina include: poor hygiene, diabetes mellitus, HIV, persistent moisture in the vaginal area, imbalanced diet, use of contaminated toilet accessories and pads, stress, unprotected sex, use of nylon undergarments, use of pessaries or intrauterine birth control devices and use of oral contraceptives.
Symptoms
Abnormal production of milky discharge from the vagina is closely linked to a series of bacterial infections occurring within the vaginal tract or around the cervix. As a result, a number of symptoms linked to vaginitis and yeast infection are known to accompany this fluid. Some of the expected symptoms include:
- Yellow stains on undergarments or clothes
- Itching
- Pain during sexual intercourse or urination
- A burning sensation around the vagina
- Swelling of the genitals
If in case of hormonal changes, one may expect to spot the following symptoms in relation to the occurrence of leucorrhoea:
- Cramps
- Breast changes
- Implantation bleeding/menstrual bleeding
- Rise in body temperature
- High levels of cervical mucus
- High blood sugar levels (if blood sugar test is taken)
It’s extremely important to promptly consult a qualified physician in case of nudging symptoms.
Diagnosis
While addressing abnormal cases of white milky discharge, doctors are generally interested in identifying the nature of the discharge in terms of when it began, its color and its smell.
They’ll want you to tell them whether you are experiencing any form of pain or a burning sensation around the vagina.
They may also want to know more about your sexual history and your sexual partner (or partners).
For a more comprehensive solution, your doctor may take a sample of the discharge for further examination after which the right kind of treatment will be suggested.
Be sure to fully cooperate with your doctor throughout the entire diagnostic process.
Treatment
How the condition is treated depends on a plethora of factors. For instance, if your symptoms point towards a case of yeast infections, the gynecologist may suggest the application of antifungal medication in the vaginal tract. In the case of bacterial vaginosis, the doctor may utilize anti-biotic creams and pills to address the root cause of the problem.
The method of treatment to be used is chosen after careful consideration of other health factors such as the extent of the problem, the patient’s medical history and exposure to risk factors.
Prevention
Prevention is always better than cure-you must have heard about this time and again. In the case of white milky discharge from the vagina, there are several safety measures that can be taken to prevent cases of infection or re-infection. Here are some useful health tips to follow:
Always keep the vaginal area clean. Be sure to use mild soap and warm water. Steer clear from scented soaps, feminine sprays and bubble baths.
After visiting the washrooms, wipe from front to back. This should always be done to prevent bacteria from the anal area from getting into the vagina.
Avoid overly tight pants and only wear 100% cotton undergarments.
Practice safe sex.
Drink lots of water on a daily basis. Studies shows that a hydrated body can help keep leucorrhoea at bay.
Be sure to go for regular medical check-ups.
Home Care
Mild cases of white milky discharge from the vagina can be addressed at home using either of the following home remedies.
*5 grams of Indian gooseberry powder mixed with 5 grams of sugar candy powder.
*1 tsp of coriander seeds soaked in a glass of water overnight- this should be drunk early the following morning.
*Applying mashed mango pulp directly on the vagina.
*A mixture of grinded cumin seeds and honey.
*Yoga exercises are also believed to hold the answer to abnormal white vaginal discharge.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
A medical professional should always be consulted in case of any abnormal and bothersome symptoms. In particular, prompt medical support should be sought for in case of the following situations.
*Weakness, fatigue and/or weakly feeling.
*Severe abdominal pain.
*Vaginal inflammation.
*Vaginal pain or painful rash.
You can call or visit your doctor at any time whenever you have any concerns about your health. However, be sure to make such arrangements during office hours.
As we sign off…
It’s our sincere hope that this article has answered all your questions about the presence of white milky discharge in the vagina. Above all, we hope that you’ll be in a position to take the right measures once you notice any of the symptoms listed above.
