Signs and Symptoms of Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is a normal occurrence that all women experience.
It usually appears as a white or clear fluid on the underwear.
Some women have discharge daily and others only on occasion.
The discharge is made up of fluid and cells that shed through the vagina.
But discharge is different thanmenstrual blood.
Arousal FluidThis is produced by glands in and around the vagina when sexual arousal occurs.
The fluid lubricates the vagina, then dissipates usually within an hour of arousal.
Seminal FluidA mans sperm, along with other fluids.
If vaginal discharge increases, it can be from normal menstrual cycle changes, per theU.S.
Department of Health and Human Services(HHS).
Pregnancy and the use ofbirth controlpills can also affect the amount of discharge and how it looks.
How Is Vaginal Discharge Evaluated?
If the discharge takes on an abnormal character, treatment can help eradicate the underlying cause.
However, changes in discharge accompanied by symptoms like itching or pain may signal an infection or other issue.
She completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York.
She is currently working on her PhD in medical sociology.
Cassata contributes to Healthline, Verywell, Yahoo, and more.
Cassata completed the editing certificate program at the University of Chicago.
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