At some point in life, almost every woman faces the problem of white discharge or leucorrhoea. However, the treatment for this condition is neither complicated nor lengthy. By understanding what Leucorrhoea is, its symptoms, causes, treatment, and necessary precautions, women can effectively address this issue, as discussed below.
What is Leucorrhoea/White Discharge?
In women, a fluid often exits the vagina, appearing transparent, milky, or light yellow. Sometimes it may have a foul smell, or it is mostly odorless. This condition, commonly known as white discharge or Leucorrhoea, is prevalent among women.
Why does Leucorrhoea Occur?
The release of transparent, white, or light yellow fluid from the vagina is normal as it serves as a protective mechanism of the body. This fluid helps prevent infections in the reproductive system by flushing out bacteria that enter through the vagina.
However, changes in the color, consistency, and smell of this fluid may occur due to various reasons. Understanding these changes is essential to discern when medical treatment is necessary. Below are some insights into these variations:
1. Transparent, Odorless, and Watery:
- Throughout a menstrual cycle lasting 21-35 days, vaginal discharge may vary in color from transparent to white or light yellow. Its consistency can range from watery to sticky, but it will consistently be odorless.
- Natural lubrication during sexual arousal also results in this type of fluid discharge.
2. White or Light Yellow, Thick, and Odorless:
- During ovulation, when an egg is released from the ovary and enters the uterus, the discharge becomes whitish and thick. This increase in quantity and thickness is due to elevated estrogen levels, facilitating fertilization by aiding sperm movement.
- Pregnant women may also experience this type of discharge as a protective mechanism against infections.
3. Light Brown, Thick, and Odorless:
- Following menstruation, the discharge may appear light to dark brown due to shedding of the uterine walls. Occasionally, blood remnants may mix with the fluid, giving it a brownish tint.
- While this can be normal, it may also indicate infection, warranting medical attention.
Difference Normal and Abnormal White Discharge:
Normal White Discharge:
- Clear, milky white, or pale yellow in color.
- Consistency ranges from watery to slightly or heavily sticky.
- Odorless.
- Quantity varies from a few drops to a tablespoon a day, increasing before and after periods, during ovulation, and during pregnancy.
Abnormal White Discharge:
- Dark yellow, grey, brown, or green in color.
- Consistency varies from sticky to pasty.
- Emitting a strong, strange odor.
- Accompanied by itching, burning, swelling, or pain in the vagina, requiring immediate treatment.
Causes of Abnormal White Discharge:
- Bacterial or yeast infections (70% of cases).
- Unprotected sex or sex without a condom.
- Sex with multiple partners.
- Anaemia.
- Use of contraceptives like copper-T, tampons, or birth control pills.
- Poor genital hygiene, including excessive rubbing or lack of proper wiping after urination.
- Use of antibiotics, steroids, scented soaps, or sprays.
- Conditions like vaginal fistula or vaginal cancer.
Symptoms of Leucorrhoea/White Discharge:
- Backache
- Pain in calves
- Excessive fatigue
- Headache
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Constipation
Treatment for White Discharge:
If white discharge is due to an infection, seeking treatment from a doctor is essential. In addition to medical treatments, the following precautions can help protect against vaginal infections:
- Thoroughly wash the vagina with plain water, avoiding strongly scented soaps or liquid washes.
- Be gentle while washing to maintain the pH balance of the vagina.
- After washing, wipe from front to back and ensure thorough drying.
- Avoid continuous use of pantyliners to keep dry.
- Opt for cotton underwear and avoid wearing it at night.
- Refrain from wearing tight clothing such as pants or underwear daily.
- During menstruation, avoid scented pads and change them every 3-4 hours.
- Practice safe sex using condoms.
- After intercourse, urinate and wash the vagina within an hour to prevent infections.
Dietary Recommendations to Prevent White Discharge:
Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial to prevent white discharge. Incorporate the following into your diet:
Fruits and Vegetables:
Ginger, garlic, spinach, carrots, cabbage, tomatoes, and mangoes are rich sources of protein and potassium, beneficial for gynecological health.
Probiotics
Consume yogurt and buttermilk containing probiotics to control gynecological issues.
Fiber-Rich Foods
Include grains, pulses, vegetables, and fruits for a fiber-rich diet.
Water
Drink an adequate amount of water daily for overall women's health.
Special Attention Foods
Bottle gourd juice, asparagus, coconut water, and ginger juice can help alleviate white discharge.
Ayurvedic Treatment for White Discharge:
1. Increased Water Intake: Drinking plenty of water flushes out bacteria causing infections.
2. Ladyfinger: Consuming ladyfinger provides relief. You can soak chopped ladyfinger in water overnight and drink it in the morning.
3. Coriander Water: Soak coriander seeds in water overnight, then drink the water in the morning for relief.
4. Curd: Probiotics in yogurt help maintain the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina.
5. Garlic: Eating garlic aids in fighting infections.
6. Fenugreek Seeds: Fenugreek seeds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
7. Turmeric: Curcumin in turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties.
8. Amla: Rich in Vitamin C, amla improves vaginal health.
9. Neem: Neem's antibacterial properties combat infection-causing microorganisms.
Note:
While natural remedies may alleviate symptoms, consulting a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial. Individual reactions may vary, and it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.
FAQs:
Q1: How to eliminate white discharge from the root?
To completely eliminate white discharge, consult a doctor for treatment. Follow their prescribed medications and consider home remedies like ripe banana, amla, turmeric, and okra.
Q2: Can drinking water of soaked fenugreek seeds or whole coriander on an empty stomach be beneficial?
Yes, consuming water infused with soaked fenugreek seeds or whole coriander on an empty stomach in the morning can be beneficial.
Q3: What are the symptoms of white discharge?
Normal white or light yellow fluid discharge from the vagina occurs during ovulation, before and after periods, and during pregnancy as a defensive action of the body. However, if the discharge is due to an infection, its color may change to dark yellow, gray, or green, accompanied by a strong odor. In such cases, seeking treatment from a doctor is necessary.
Q4: What are the disadvantages of leucorrhoea?
Prolonged leucorrhoea can lead to issues such as weakness, back pain, pain in calves, fatigue, burning sensation in the vaginal area, itching, and dryness. If left untreated, it may increase the risk of vaginal infection.
Medically edited by:
Dr. Dolly
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