Women, these tips will help you differentiate between normal and abnormal vaginal discharge

However, if there are any, changes such as the following, then one should consult a doctor: 

*Vaginal discharge which is chunky or involves itching may mean you have an infection.

*Dark yellow, brown, grey, or green discharge may indicate an infection.

*A fishy or foul smell from the discharge is a cause for concern.

*Sudden changes in the amount of discharge may mean something is wrong.

According to Dr Varshney, other symptoms associated with abnormal vaginal discharge are painful intercourse, frequent bouts of urination, painful urination, tenderness in the pelvic region and it may also cause blisters, bumps and swelling in the vaginal area.

There are a number of infections that can cause vaginal discharge to become abnormal:

Usually vaginal discharge appears clear, white or off-white fluid-like, and is made up of cells and bacteria. (Source: Freepik)

*A yeast infection occurs when a specific fungus called candida grows in the vagina. It causes the discharge to turn thick and cheese-like. It may swell the vagina as well and cause persistent itching and painful sex. Such infection is treated using antifungal medications.

*Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), one can get from having sex with an infected person. It turns your vaginal discharge green, yellow, or grey in colour, and the texture becomes frothy. It is caused by a parasite and can be treated with antibiotics.

*Bacterial vaginosis (BV) happens through sexual contact but not all the time. People with BV have gray or white discharge, with a foul-smell. 

*Chlamydia and gonorrhea are common STIs which can be treated through antibiotics. One can have a cloudy, green, or yellow discharge in this case. It may spread if left untreated.

It can also happen through non-infectious things like leaving a tampon inside your vagina, detergents, soaps, sex toys, condoms, or because of lower levels of oestrogen causing atrophic vaginitis during menopause.

The best way to keep your vagina healthy as per the expert:

*Avoid usage of perfumed gels, soaps, wipes or other irritating feminine hygiene products

*Not douching or washing inside the vagina

*Wiping vagina from front to back to prevent bacteria to get into the vagina

*Not wearing tight undergarments, bathing suits, leotards or sweaty clothes for long durations

*Regularly changing your tampons and sanitary napkins during menstruation

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