Vaginal Discharge / Itch / Odour

Vaginal discharge may be caused by the following:

candida / yeast / vaginal thrush
chlamydia
gonorrhoea
trichomonas
bacterial vaginosis ( BV )
other infections

In addition to infection, vaginal discharge can also be physiological ( normal response of our body to stimulation or hormonal changes ) or even the result of allergies and foreign bodies such as retained condoms.

Compared to normal ( physiological ) discharge, vaginal discharge due to infections are more often associated with other symptoms like itch ( common in yeast infections and Trichomonas ), fishy or unusual odours ( common in BV ), bleeding during sex, pain during urination or pain at the bladder or pelvic areas. In addition to an increase in the amount of discharge, the discharge may also become thicker or darker in colour ( yellow or green in gonorrhoea ), or be associated with curds ( especially in yeast infections ).

Fever is not a common symptom in most vaginal infections. However, if you experience fever, lower abdominal pain and vaginal discharge or bleeding, do see a doctor as soon as possible for a thorough assessment. These symptoms can be caused by Pelvic Inflammatory Disease ( PID ), which is a complication of STDs or other bacteria spreading upwards from the vagina. PID can be potentially serious, and in some patients may lead to reduced fertility in the future. Thankfully, the outcome is usually good if it is treated early.

Sometimes, infections may cause itch or an unpleasant or fishy odour without any obvious increase in amount of vaginal discharge. Infections causing these symptoms include vaginal thrush ( yeast ), Gardnerella spp ( bacterial vaginosis ) and Trichomonas vaginalis ( a parasite ). Sexually transmissible infections like chlamydia, mycoplasma genitalum and ureaplasma urealyticum may also present in this manner.

Our clinic carries a wide range of treatments to cover for STDs as well as for yeasts, bacterial vaginosis and all the infections mentioned earlier. We are also able to treat your partners should there be a likelihood that they may be carrying the same infections.

If you experience persistent or increased vaginal discharge, unusual odour or persistent itch around the private areas, or if you suspect that you may have an infection, please call 6251 5512 or SMS/WhatsApp 9662 5512 for appointment.