Normal Vaginal Discharge

For most women, a clear or slightly cloudy, non-irritating, and odor-free discharge from the vagina is considered normal. During a woman's monthly cycle, the amount and consistency of the discharge can vary. Generally, there is a small amount of a very thin or watery discharge during part of a woman's cycle and a thicker discharge at another.

Occasionally, a woman may experience vaginal discomfort and even a vaginal discharge without having a bacterial or fungal infection. The most common cause is a reaction to vaginal sprays, douches, or spermicidal products. The skin around the vagina may also react to perfumed soaps, detergents, and fabric softeners. In such cases, use of the irritant should be discontinue immediately.

Infection or inflammation of the vagina

''Vaginitis'' is the medical term used to describe infection or inflammation of the vagina.

The cause of vaginitis may be organisms such as bacteria, yeast, and viruses, or irritants such as chemicals, or clothing in contact with the vaginal area. Some, but not all, types of vaginitis can be passed between sexual partners and are considered to be STDs or sexually transmitted diseases.

The best way to prevent vaginal infection is by developing good self-care health habits. Vaginal infections should be treated promptly to avoid the possibility of more serious complications. The most common symptom of a vaginal infection is an unusual vaginal discharge.

Symptoms of Vaginitis

The symptoms of vaginitis can vary depending on what is causing the infection and some women may have an infection with no symptoms at all.

The most common symptoms of vaginitis include:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor.
• Burning during urination.
• Itching around the outside of the vagina.
• Discomfort during intercourse.

It is important to see your doctor if there has been a noticeable change in the amount, color or smell of vaginal discharge, if there is blood in the discharge between periods or if there is bleeding with intercourse. Symptoms of vaginitis can be made worse by sexual intercourse.

Types of Vaginitis

There are two common vaginal infections that are not considered to be sexually transmitted diseases.

Candida or ''yeast'' infections

Bacterial vaginosis

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)

Several other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) may exhibit symptoms in the vaginal area or other areas of the body. These include:

Chlamydia vaginitis

Genital herpes

Genital warts (humanpapilloma virus or HPV)

Gonnorhea

Hepatitis B

HIV/AIDS

Syphilis

Trichomoniasis vaginitis

Other Vaginal Conditions

Several other conditions may be related to a vaginal infection or exhibit symptoms in the vaginal area.

Vaginal Change During Menopause (Vaginal Atrophy)

Changes in the vaginal tissue of perimenopausal and menopausal women are normal due to the natural decline in estrogen. Thinning of the vaginal skin and a decrease in natural production of lubrication may result in dryness, itching, burning, and even pain, especially during sexual intercourse. Options for improving vaginal comfort and health include vaginal moisturizers, prescription creams, and hormone therapy.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID occurs when bacteria move from a woman's vagina or cervix (opening to the uterus) into her reproductive organs. Many different organisms can cause PID, but many cases are associated with gonorrhea and chlamydia, two very common bacterial STDs. Untreated PID can lead to serious consequences including infertility.

Bartholin's Gland Cyst

Bartholin's gland is one of two small glands just outside the opening to the vagina. These glands release a lubricating fluid during sexual arousal. Though not common, a Bartholin's gland cyst can develop if the gland becomes blocked. Cysts generally appear as a small, painless mass just outside the opening to the vagina and are often easily treated with warm compresses. If the cyst becomes infected and forms an abscess, an incision may be required.

When Should You Call Your Doctor?

Left untreated, many vaginal infections can develop into more serious problems. You should call your doctor to discuss diagnosis and treatment options any time:

• Your vaginal discharge changes color, becomes heavier, or smells different
• You notice itching, burning, swelling, or soreness around the vagina.