Vaginal Discharge: What's Normal and what's Not?

 🔹 Vaginal Discharge: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

Every woman experiences **vaginal discharge** — it’s the body’s natural way of keeping the vagina clean and healthy. But how can you tell if it’s normal or a sign of infection?  

 ✅ Normal Discharge  

- Clear or whitish  

- Mild smell (or no smell)  

- Changes with the menstrual cycle (thicker around ovulation, lighter at other times)  

👉 Normal discharge = healthy, no treatment needed.  

 ⚠️ Warning Signs – When to Seek Medical Advice  

See your doctor if you notice:  

- Yellow, green, or gray discharge  

- Strong, unpleasant or fishy odor  

- Itching, burning, or swelling around the vagina  

- Pelvic or abdominal pain  

- Blood-stained discharge outside your period or after menopause  

- Recurrent abnormal changes despite home care  

🌿 The Role of Lactobacillus  

The vagina is normally rich in **lactobacillus**, a “good bacteria” that:  

- Produces **lactic acid** → keeps the vaginal pH acidic (3.8–4.5)  

- Prevents harmful organisms like candida and BV  

- Supports a self-cleaning, protective environment  

When lactobacillus is disrupted (due to unnecessary antibiotics, poor hygiene, douching, or uncontrolled diabetes), women may develop:  

- Abnormal discharge  

- Odor  

- Recurrent infections  

 📌 Guideline-based advice (CDC/WHO):  

- Avoid vaginal douching or harsh soaps — they disturb the natural balance.  

- Choose cotton underwear & breathable fabrics.  

- Probiotics and a balanced diet can support vaginal flora.  

- Early consultation prevents small issues from becoming big problems.  

✨ Key message:

Normal discharge is a sign of health. Unusual changes are warning signals — don’t ignore them. Protect your lactobacillus, protect your vaginal health.  

#DrRababCares 

#WomensHealth #VaginalDischarge #Lactobacillus #ForestParkHospital #Gynecology #WomenHealthMatters #HealthyLiving

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