Is Vaginal Discharge Dangerous? Abnormal Signs and Treatment
Is vaginal discharge dangerous? Learn the signs of abnormal vaginal discharge, how to manage it at home and when to see an OB-GYN doctor in Jakarta.
Many women feel uncomfortable dealing with vaginal discharge, and most are also unsure of the right way to manage it. OB-GYN doctors in Jakarta are often asked, "Is vaginal discharge dangerous?" Read on for the answer.
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What Vaginal Discharge Is
Most women experience vaginal discharge at least once in their lives, yet many do not really understand how it happens. Vaginal discharge, or keputihan in Indonesian, is the term for an excess flow of fluid from the vagina that is not blood.
This fluid is produced by glands inside the vagina and the cervix. Its job is to help keep the vagina clean and protect it from infection and irritation. So vaginal discharge is actually very normal for women and should not be harmful.
Signs of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Discharge is a normal condition, especially during pregnancy, when taking hormonal medication such as birth control pills, during arousal, before and after menstruation, and during fatigue and stress. Even so, you should see an OB-GYN doctor in Jakarta promptly if it shows certain signs.
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Normal discharge is usually clear or milky white, with a slippery, sticky texture, and it has no strong smell. Abnormal discharge, on the other hand, can show up as a strong foul smell, a stickier texture, colored discharge, and an itchy, painful vagina.
The color of abnormal discharge varies, and the color can point to the health problem behind it. For example, green discharge may indicate a sexually transmitted infection, such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea.
How to Deal With Vaginal Discharge
To manage vaginal discharge, you can keep the genital area clean and dry, wear cotton underwear that is not too tight, wipe from front to back after urinating, and avoid sex for the time being while you have discharge.
You should also avoid using just any feminine cleansing product. Some products can upset the acidity and the bacterial balance of the vagina. If you want to use products like these, consult an expert first.
An OB-GYN doctor in Jakarta can also provide medical treatment if abnormal discharge is bothering you. Treatments often used to clear it up include antibiotics and antifungal medication. The doctor may also take other medical steps if the discharge points to a particular illness.
From the explanation above, we can conclude that vaginal discharge is actually a common condition in women, because it is the vagina's way of cleaning itself. But if you notice signs of unusual discharge, see an OB-GYN doctor promptly, because it may point to a specific illness.
