Differential diagnosis of white vaginal discharge

Differential diagnosis of white vaginal discharge

white vaginal discharge

Differential diagnosis is the determination of which one of the several diseases with similar symptoms is causing the patient’s condition. Vaginal discharge serves an important role in distinguishing abnormalities in the female reproductive system. Fluids that are produced by the glands in the vagina and cervix help to prevent infection by making it easy for the excretion of dead cells and bacteria.

The color and odor of the vaginal discharge depends on

the time in the menstrual cycle. An increase in discharge can be noticed if the woman is breastfeeding, ovulating or sexually aroused. The smell may be different if the woman is pregnant or doesn’t give much important in her personal hygiene. Infection is the most common cause of an abnormal vaginal discharge in women of childbearing age. If an infectious etiology is not known, other factors must be identified including foreign bodies, hormonal changes and allergens. Intrauterine devices (IUD), condoms and any chemical douches are some of the most common irritants.

Bacterial vaginosis are common in pregnant women or women with multiple sexual partners. Douching can also contribute to the disruption of vaginal ecosystem.  It is neither an inflammatory condition nor an STD. The most common symptom is a smelly vaginal discharge. It may be white, yellow or grayish in color. Half of the women who have bacterial vaginosis do not notice any symptoms.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are sexually transmitted diseases that produce purulent vaginal discharge, greenish yellow or whitish in color. Patients may complain of lower abdominal or pelvic pain, bleeding between periods, and pain when urinating (usually experienced when upper respiratory tract infection is present).

Volvuvaginal yeast infection is common in women. Symptoms such as extreme itching, soreness and redness in the vaginal are can be experienced. In addition, painful intercourse is included as well as white, clumpy vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese. Taking broad-spectrum antibiotics can affect the normal vaginal bacterial flora, thus being more prone in having infections. The concentration of yeast in such large numbers causes itching, burning and discharge.

Vaginal infections leading to abnormal discharge can be prevented by avoiding scented soaps, bubble bath, feminine sprays and douche. For women with recurrent yeast infections, it is advisable to avoid using panty hose, tight pants and nylon underwear. It is important to educate them about the normal physiologic changes as well as hormonal changes and infections related to the appearance of vaginal discharge. Patient education about personal hygiene is also a big factor.