Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is normal and the amount of discharge varies from one woman to the next. It is a fluid that your vagina produces to keep it healthy, moist and free from infection. Occasionally there may be a change in your usual vaginal discharge.
If you have noticed a change in your discharge it is important to let your health care provider know, especially if this change is problematic in terms of odour, volume, colour or is associated with pain, irritation or blood. At Sexual Health North in Joondalup, we have a lot of experience in treating women with these problems.
Vaginal Discharge | Sexual Health Clinic Perth
Causes of vaginal discharge
Problematic or abnormal vaginal discharges
If you have noticed a change in your discharge, there are many different conditions which may be responsible.
The most common include:
- Candidiasis, commonly called thrush, caused by a yeast / fungal infection. It is usually not sexually transmitted and is more common after courses of antibiotics or steroids and in women with some medical conditions e.g. diabetes. In addition to vaginal discharge some women also notice an associated itch (vaginal or vulval), or, burning on passing urine. Some women have difficulties with recurrent episodes that require special management.
- Bacterial Vaginosis is caused by an imbalance in the vaginal ecosystem. The discharge is often associated with an odour. This discharge also can become recurrent and problematic for some women.
- Sexually transmitted infections can also be associated with a discharge, sometimes associated with pain on passing urine, pelvic pain or pain when having sex.
- Atrophic vaginitis; at menopause there is usually a change in the vagina and therefore the discharge it produces. Sometimes this can cause inflammation and soreness.
- Foreign bodies such as a retained tampon
Normal vaginal discharge
The presence of a vaginal discharge is normal and not a sign of a problem unless there has been a change in the colour, smell and amount of discharge.
Women can get changes in their discharge for many different reasons. These can include: stage of menstrual cycle, contraception use, pregnancy and menopause.
Vaginal Discharge | Sexual Health Clinic Perth
When should I see a doctor?
We recommend you see a health care provider if you think your vaginal discharge has recently changed.
The symptom of vaginal discharge may be accompanied by symptoms of itching and soreness of the vagina or vulva, pain on peeing, bleeding between periods and or after sex, and pelvic pain (pain between your belly button and groin area). If so, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible.
When it involves your sexual health, you may feel embarrassed broaching this topic with your family GP. At Sexual Health North, we specialise in sexual health problems and you can count on our empathetic and hassle-free approach to managing them.
Vaginal Discharge | Sexual Health Clinic Perth
Infections can recur
Some causes of vaginal discharge can become chronic. If you are concerned or frustrated, see a specialist. Our sexual health clinic in the Perth suburb of Joondalup has a wealth of experience in managing persistent vaginal discharge. Whatever the nature of your symptoms, you can count on our expertise and our commitment to helping you get better in a safe, confidential and caring environment.
Specialist Doctors | Sexual Health Clinic Perth
Sexual health clinic Joondalup
Our dedicated clinical health specialists have very wide experience dealing with sexual health issues.
Our specialists will treat you sympathetically and provide counselling and any follow-up support.
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3/5 Regent's Park Road,
Joondalup 6027
Opening hours
Monday : 8.30 am - 1.00 pm
Tuesday : Closed
Wednesday : 9.00 am - 7.00 pm
Thursday : Closed
Friday : 9.00 am - 7.00 pm
Saturday : 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
Sunday : Closed