Overview

Heavy vaginal discharge, known as leukorrhea, is a common occurrence in women. It typically consists of mucus and dead cells from the cervix and vagina, serving as a natural cleaning mechanism. However, changes in colour, odour, or consistency may indicate an underlying issue, and consulting a healthcare provider is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Your menstrual cycle is accompanied by vaginal discharge by nature. Several illnesses, including yeast infections, can cause modifications in discharge. Vaginal discharge is normal and acts as a cleansing and anti-infection fluid. However, according to your age and the stage of your menstrual cycle, its colour, texture, and quantity may vary. That being said, certain alterations may indicate a problem with your health. Some of them can be noticeable variations in consistency, colour, or odour. Let us have a look at some of the major causes of heavy vaginal discharge.

- Stimulation. The body goes through various physical reactions when it is sexually aroused. The genitalia's blood flow rises with arousal. Consequently, fluid is forced to the surface of the vaginal walls by the enlargement of the blood vessels. Arousal fluid has a slick feel and is transparent and watery. During intercourse, this fluid helps lubricate the vagina. Additional indicators of female arousal include flushing of the face, neck, and chest, erect nipples, and elevated heart rate and respiration.
- Ovulation. Cervical fluid is a gel-like substance rich in amino acids, carbs, and proteins. Cervical fluid changes both texture and quantity during a woman's menstrual cycle. Near ovulation, oestrogen levels rise. The cervical fluid becomes slick and transparent, such as raw egg whites. The cervical fluid flow rises in the days preceding ovulation and falls following ovulation. After their period, females might not have any discharge for a few days.
- Inconsistencies in Hormone Levels. Thick vaginal discharge may be a sign of hormonal abnormalities brought on by stress, nutrition, or underlying medical disorders. An example of a group of symptoms brought on by hormone abnormalities is called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). More androgens, or male hormones, are present in PCOS patients. Changes in the quantity or consistency of cervical fluid might result in irregular menstruation due to elevated testosterone levels.
- Vaginitis. Inflammation of the vagina, known as vaginitis, can be brought on by an infection or irritated by substances such as douches, lubricants, and loose clothes. Thick vaginal discharge, which can be white, grey, yellow, or green, is a symptom of vaginal infection.

Additional signs of vaginitis include

- Unpleasant vaginal odour
- A burning or itchy feeling in the vaginal region
- Vaginal redness or inflammation
- Discomfort or pain during urination
- Discomfort during a sexual encounter

Bacterial vaginosis. Excessive bacterial growth in the vagina causes a disorder known as bacterial vaginosis. Among females aged 15–44, this vaginal infection is most prevalent. The precise aetiology of bacterial vaginosis is yet unknown. Following sexual activity, females are susceptible to developing bacterial vaginosis. But it's important to note that this illness is not an STI.

Further causes of bacterial vaginosis include:

- Pain while urination
- The vagina burns or itches painfully.
- Skin rashes around the vagina.

[caption id="attachment_23481" align="alignnone" width="1462"] Bacterial Vaginosis[/caption]

Yeast infection. An overabundance of the Candida fungus causes vaginal yeast infection. Yeast infections in the vagina can affect women of any age, and around 70% of them will experience one at some point in their time. Severe vaginal and vulva itching is the most typical sign of a vaginal yeast infection

[caption id="attachment_23482" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Microscopic view of Candidiasis[/caption]

A cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge without any smell might potentially be a symptom of vaginal yeast infection. With over-the-counter antifungal ointments, vaginal yeast infections can be treated at home. Over a few days, symptoms should improve. Severe infections, on the other hand, may persist longer and call for medical attention.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Gynecology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Ovulation, infections, or excitement can all lead to excessive vaginal discharge. The colour of a normal vaginal discharge can range from clear to milky to white. Vaginal discharge can also range in consistency from thin and watery to heavy and sticky. In general, a healthy vaginal discharge ought to smell very bland. A woman should consult a medical expert if she observes any infection-related signs. Among the signs to watch out for are:

- Vaginal discharge that is grey, green, or yellow
- Unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge
- Discharge has a cottage cheese-like appearance
- Burning or itching in the area of the genitalia

Doctors simply use antimicrobial drugs to treat the majority of vaginal infections. People may observe an improvement in their symptoms in a matter of days or weeks, depending on the severity of the illness.

References

- https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-discharge/basics/causes/sym-20050825
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327379