Does abnormal vaginal discharge have a bad smell?

Abnormal vaginal discharge may be accompanied by a foul odor and is usually related to infection, inflammation, or hormonal changes. Treatment options include medical examinations, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.

1. Infection

Abnormal vaginal discharge with a foul odor is common in bacterial vaginitis, Trichomonas vaginitis or fungal infection. Bacterial vaginitis is usually caused by an imbalance of vaginal flora, which manifests as grayish-white discharge and a fishy smell. Trichomonas vaginitis is caused by parasitic infection, and the discharge is yellow-green with a strong odor. Fungal infection is mostly caused by Candida albicans, and the discharge is like tofu dregs and has a lighter odor.

2. Inflammation

Inflammatory diseases such as cervicitis and pelvic inflammatory disease may also cause abnormal vaginal discharge and foul odor. Cervicitis is often caused by bacterial or viral infection, and the discharge increases and may contain blood. Pelvic inflammatory disease is mostly caused by ascending infection, accompanied by lower abdominal pain and fever.

3. Hormone changes

Pregnancy, changes in the menstrual cycle, or hormone fluctuations during menopause may affect the characteristics and odor of vaginal discharge. During pregnancy, estrogen levels increase, and vaginal discharge increases but is usually odorless. During menopause, estrogen decreases and the vaginal environment changes, which may cause odor.

Treatment

1. See a doctor

If you have abnormal leucorrhea with a foul odor, you should seek medical attention promptly and undergo routine examination of leucorrhea, cervical smear or B-ultrasound examination to determine the cause.

2. Drug treatment

- Bacterial vaginosis: oral metronidazole or topical clindamycin ointment.

- Trichomonas vaginitis: oral metronidazole or tinidazole.

- Fungal infection: topical clotrimazole suppository or oral fluconazole.

3. Adjust your lifestyle

-Keep the vulva clean and avoid using irritating lotions.

- Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing.

- Eat a light diet, avoid spicy foods, and consume more yogurt rich in probiotics.

Abnormal vaginal discharge with a foul odor may be a sign of a health problem, and timely medical treatment and scientific treatment are key. Through medication and lifestyle adjustments, symptoms can be effectively improved and health can be restored.