Discharge from the vagina can be a normal process, but it can also be due to infection and inflammation. In this condition, both the vagina and the external female genitalia can be affected. Depending on the cause, other symptoms often appear – itching, burning, irritation, redness and sometimes pain during intercourse. Normal vaginal discharge Vaginal discharge can be the result of normal changes in estrogen levels – high levels stimulate the secretion of cervical mucus. Estrogen levels can be increased in the following cases: During the menstrual cycle, a few days before the release of the egg; A few months before the onset of the first menstruation; During pregnancy; When taking drugs that contain estrogen or that increase the production of estrogen; In newborns within 1-2 weeks after birth, because they absorb estrogen from their mother before birth; Normally, normal vaginal discharge is odorless, clear to milky white in color. In childbearing age, the amount and type of discharge may vary during the menstrual cycle. In the middle of the cycle, when the egg is released – at ovulation, the cervix produces more mucus and the mucus is lighter in consistency. Pregnancy, birth control, and sexual arousal also affect the amount and type of discharge. After menopause, estrogen levels decrease, which decreases the amount of flow. What are the pathological characteristics of vaginal discharge? Thicker and heavier consistency; Thicker layers of secretions; White colour; A current that comes off in lumps; The presence of a gray, green, yellow or bloody tint; Bad smell; Combination with itching, burning, rash or soreness. What are the causes of vaginal discharge? Abnormal vaginal discharge is usually caused by vaginitis, which is most commonly caused by chemical irritation or infection. The likely causes of vaginal discharge depend on age. In childhood, common causes include: Infection caused by bacteria from the digestive tract; Chemicals in personal care products; Entry of a foreign object into the vagina. Infection can occur with poor hygiene and failure to follow the rules for proper cleaning and care of the intimate growth. If the cause is a foreign object, the discharge may contain small amounts of blood. In childbearing age, vaginal discharge is usually caused by a vaginal infection. The most common infections are: Bacterial vaginosis; Candidiasis – a fungal infection caused by bacteria of the genus Candida; Trichomonad vaginitis – trichomoniasis of the vagina, which is usually sexually transmitted; Sometimes the discharge is caused by other infections, including sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Vaginal infections are usually prevented by the available protective bacteria – lactobacilli,which are normal inhabitants of the vaginal environment. These bacteria keep the acidity of the vagina within normal limits. When the acidity in the vagina decreases, the number of protective bacteria decreases, allowing the population of disease-causing microorganisms to increase. What factors increase the risk of vaginal infections? Taking antibiotics, as they can reduce the number of protective bacteria; Presence of menstrual blood or seminal fluid in the vagina, as they reduce the acidity of the vaginal environment; Improper maintenance of intimate hygiene; Pregnancy; Diabetes; A foreign object, such as an unremoved tampon, as tampons provide a warm and moist environment that favors bacterial growth; After menopause, many women experience abnormal discharge. This is due to reduced estrogen levels, which dry out and harden the walls of the vagina. This favors the development of inflammation and irritation, which are often associated with the presence of vaginal discharge. Symptoms that affect the vagina and excretory system after menopause are called menopausal urogenital syndrome. These symptoms include vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, urge to urinate, and urinary tract infections. References: https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/women-s-health-issues/symptoms-of-gynecologic-disorders/vaginal-discharge