Vaginal Discharge: Who Is The Culprit?

‘I’m having vaginal discharge, I’ll need some antibiotics for this’

This is a common, yet very wrong belief. Vaginal discharge has been commonly attributed to bacteria. However, vaginal discharge can be caused by organisms other than bacteria.

Culprits Behind Vaginal Discharge

Yeast Infection

Vaginal yeast infections happen when a specific fungus (candida) grows out of control in your vagina.

Trichomoniasis

This is a type of sexually transmitted parasite. 

Bacterial Vaginosis 

Yes, bacteria can cause vaginal discharge. Bacteria is not the sole cause of vaginal infection

Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia

Sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia can also lead to vaginal discharge

Fact: Vaginal discharge can also be caused by other non-infectious causes such as allergic reaction.

Are All Discharge the Same?

The colour and the smell of the discharge may give an idea of what is the culprit behind a certain case of vaginal discharge.

Thick, white and cheesy: Suggests yeast infection

White, grey or yellow with fishy smell: Suggests bacterial vaginosis

Frothy, yellow, or greenish with a bad smell: Suggests Trichomoniasis

You should not attempt to self-diagnose your vaginal discharge. Talk to your healthcare professionals to know more.