07/09/2003, Evgenia
After a trip to the sea and swimming in cold water, I developed copious discharge, symptoms similar to thrush, with a slight sour (reminiscent of yeast) odor. There was no treatment for thrush. What medications can you recommend? Does it make sense to get tested for chlamydia, etc.?
You are right, you need to take a regular gynecological smear, it will detect thrush, and DNA (PCR) tests for chlamydia, gardnerella, mycoplasma and ureaplasma.
10/07/2003, Arina
I just stopped taking triquilar. Almost immediately I felt that more lubricant was being released. But after a few days a burning sensation appeared. I took a smear and received the following analysis: C: leukocytes 8-10, epithelial cells 4-6, doederlein rods ++, cocci V: leukocytes 10-12, epithelial cells 4-6, doederlein rods +++. Is it thrush or something else? Are any other tests needed? Please comment.
Doderlein rods - lactobacilli - normal vaginal microflora. But there are also cocci. Just in case, do DNA (PCR) tests for gardnerella, mycoplasma and ureaplasma.
18/07/2003, Karina
I have thrush, it appears and disappears, it was first discovered 1 year ago in a routine smear for flora, the doctor prescribed Defflucan and vaginal suppositories (unfortunately I don’t remember the name), she also advised me to get tested for chlamydia, mycoplasma, gardnarella and ureplasma (culture) , the result was negative. After treatment for 5 months there was no thrush, then it returned again and continues to this day, sometimes subsiding for a while. She was treated with whatever treatment she could, and she was not sexually active all this time. I am an athlete, I train constantly, I sweat a lot, so my underwear stays wet for a long time. This is such a favorable environment for candida, can this factor influence the appearance of thrush, and sometimes it appears after washing with some new soap (I often wash myself, more than 2 times a day), can thrush manifest itself as an allergy to hygiene products (I'm allergic)?
No, recurring thrush is a symptom of the presence of mycoplasmas or ureaplasmas, which are difficult to treat, often recur, and can multiply quickly when immunity drops. They must be determined by DNA hybridization (PCR). Contact a gynecologist or venereologist to clarify the diagnosis.
07/21/2003, Elena
Please advise which drug is best to restore the vaginal microflora after antibiotic treatment.
These are preparations containing lactobacilli - Acylact in suppositories or Lactobacterin in bottles. The instructions for the drugs describe in detail how they should be used.
07/21/2003 Lisa
For a very long time I have had white, cheesy discharge with a sour smell. I had a smear test from a gynecologist, they said that the tests were excellent and that this was typical for my age. There is no itching or other unpleasant sensations, but, in my opinion, this is not normal.
If the tests are normal, there is no itching or discomfort, then there is really no reason to worry. The sour smell is the natural smell of female secretions. They can be white or transparent. The main thing is that they do not have a sharp unpleasant odor and yellowish-green tints.
07/21/2003, Anonymous
I would like to know, based on the results of the tests received to detect chlamydia, how long I have had this infection and how serious it is. IgG 1/64, antigen +++ (10,000 inclusions). IgA was not detected. A large amount of Candida fungus and leukocytes in the cervical canal 40-50-60; GN- was detected.
It is necessary to take DNA (PCR) tests for chlamydia, gardnerella, human or urogenital mycoplasma and ureaplasma, because They are the ones hiding behind candidiasis. The listed infections are sexually transmitted, and Gn is a real venereal disease - gonorrhea. Because of this - inflammation, 40-60 leukocytes.
07/22/2003, Nadezhda
I have been suffering from thrush since I was 18 years old. It appears periodically, I undergo treatment several times a year and do tests. A year ago I was diagnosed with chlamydia. Cured. I also have cervical erosion. The problem is this: in January I started having cycle irregularities: a week before my period started I had brown discharge, it lasted for about a week, after which menstrual bleeding began as usual. All this was accompanied by severe chest pain. This happened for 4 months before I went to the doctor (we have an appointment with the doctor a month or earlier). They did tests - there was candidiasis, nothing else. The doctor prescribed me to take hormonal contraceptives for 5 months. It's already the fourth month of taking it. At first everything got better, but now I am again noticing pinkish or light brown discharge a week before my period. Thrush appeared again. I’m going to see the doctor again, please advise me what tests to do or what kind of examination. Our partner has been constant for 2 years now, in a year we may want to conceive a child.
The first step in the tactics of treating erosion, the first step in examination before pregnancy, a tactical move in connection with ongoing thrush, all this - you need to do DNA (PCR) tests for sexually transmitted infections: chlamydia, gardnerella, human and urogenital mycoplasmas, ureaplasma. These infections are often hidden behind the appearance of thrush.
19/08/2003, Arina
I am being treated for thrush with Flucostat tablets and Clotrimazole suppositories. In the morning after the first use, I felt a nagging pain in the lower abdomen, the discharge became pink and coarse, like sand. Plus, there is quite a strong burning sensation. Are these normal phenomena or do I need other medications? If possible, tell me which ones exactly.
First of all, I advise you to take DNA (PCR) tests for sexually transmitted infections: chlamydia, gardnerella, human and urogenital mycoplasmas, ureaplasma, which often manifests itself as long-term thrush. And stop using Clotrimazole, apparently, the phenomena described by you are a manifestation of a local allergic reaction.
08/20/2003, Anonymous
My husband is being treated for prostatitis. During treatment, we had sexual intercourse and a rash appeared on the head of his penis. The doctor told him that I had thrush and he got it from me and prescribed him another dose of antibiotics. Indeed, after intercourse I developed itching and white discharge. To be honest, I don’t want to go to the doctor. Please advise how I can treat myself??? Tell me, please, could you provide a link to some sensible site on men's problems.
A rash on the head of the penis is not a symptom of candidiasis (thrush). This is more likely a sign of the herpes virus or HPV. I recommend that you and your husband contact a venereologist and get tested for hidden sexually transmitted infections (chlamydia, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, herpes and papillomavirus) using the DNA diagnostic method.
08/22/2003, Tanya
I have discharge that is present almost constantly, the smell is normal, but it is very abundant, sometimes it is transparent like water, but more often it is viscous white, yellow on the panty liner, I even have to change the panty liner because it is very wet! I took tests, there was no infection, but the flora was somehow pathological, I was treated with Betadine, but everything remained the same. Was I somehow treated incorrectly or not completely? I was also found to have cervical erosion, but according to the doctor it is small and perhaps the reason for its appearance is due to bad flora.
Perhaps such discharge indicates vaginal dysbiosis or a hidden sexually transmitted infection. For the same reason, erosion developed. I recommend that you contact a gynecologist, do a smear and take DNA (PCR) diagnostic tests for chlamydia, mycoplasma, ureaplasma and gardnerella.
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Itching, burning and white discharge can cause severe restlessness and anxiety in any woman. And this is quite justified, because such symptoms are not normal and indicate the presence of a disease of the genital organs.
Itching and white discharge, as well as a burning sensation, are characteristic of many inflammatory and infectious gynecological diseases. If a transparent mucous secretion can be released to a greater or lesser extent from the vagina of a completely healthy representative of the fair sex or a girl during puberty, then leucorrhoea, accompanied by discomfort and burning, always appears due to diseases of the genital organs of an inflammatory nature.
Causes of itching and vaginal discharge
Here are the main pathological conditions in which vaginal itching appears, as well as an increase in the amount of discharge and a change in its composition:
- salpingoophoritis or adnexitis (inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries);
- cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix);
- colpitis (inflammation of the vaginal mucosa);
- endometritis (inflammation of the uterine mucosa);
- endocrine diseases;
- allergic reactions;
- prolapse of the vaginal walls.
It is also possible that leucorrhoea and itching may occur after douching, taking contraceptives and antibiotics, if there is poor circulation in the pelvic area, or if intimate hygiene rules are not followed.
Inflammatory processes in the fallopian tubes and ovaries are defined by specialists as salpingoophoritis or adnexitis. Microorganisms in this case provoke itching and burning in the vagina, pain localized in the lower abdomen, high fever, intoxication with nausea and vomiting. The discharge is mucous or purulent in nature, causing irritation in the vaginal area, as well as the external genitalia.
The causative agents of salpingoophoritis (adnexitis) are bacteria of staphylococcus, streptococcus, Escherichia coli, gonococci, and tuberculosis. It occurs in acute or chronic form. During acute adnexitis, absolutely all symptoms are especially noticeable, while their intensity in the chronic form appears only with provoking factors (hypothermia, menstruation, decreased immune defense). Chronic salpingoophoritis can lead to the appearance of adhesions, as well as obstruction of the fallopian tubes.
Cervicitis is characterized by inflammatory processes localized in the cervix, itching in the vagina, pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse and discomfort during urination. Chronic cervicitis is characterized by the appearance of cloudy mucous leucorrhoea, as well as irritation and mild itching in the vaginal area and labia.
The appearance of colpitis (vaginitis, vaginosis) is characterized by inflammation of the vaginal mucosa. Discharge and itching in women, nagging pain in the lower back and lower abdomen are the main symptoms of vaginitis. This gynecological disease rarely appears as an independent and local process. Colpitis, as a rule, is accompanied by vulvitis or inflammation of the external genitalia, endocevitis, and urethritis. 
Factors that contribute to the development of colpitis include:
- infections, including sexually transmitted infections;
- allergic reactions;
- damage to vaginal tissue;
- trophic changes in the vaginal mucosa;
- taking antibiotics;
- endocrine diseases;
- violation of intimate hygiene rules.
The causative agents of infectious colpitis are pathogenic microorganisms (chlamydia, streptococci, staphylococci, mycoplasma), as well as opportunistic microflora (enterococci, E. coli, candida).
Itching and yellowish or white discharge are accompanied by tingling and pain in the vaginal area. The unpleasant smell of leucorrhoea is associated with the presence of leukocytes in large quantities, as well as the presence of pathogenic bacteria.
Candidal colpitis is characterized by profuse leucorrhoea, reminiscent of cottage cheese, has a sour or bready smell and brings the most unpleasant sensations. Pregnant women, people with diabetes, and people taking antibiotics are most susceptible to candidiasis (thrush). The fungus of the genus Candida is present in the natural microflora of the vagina, but in the presence of provoking factors it develops especially actively, causing itching and burning in the vagina. Abundant white discharge often appears after swimming in fresh water or using chlorinated water for hygiene procedures. A connection has been established between the onset of thrush and wearing tight trousers, as well as low-quality synthetic underwear.
When the inner surface of the uterine mucosa becomes inflamed, endometritis occurs. The main factor provoking the occurrence of endometritis should be considered an infection that penetrates the uterine cavity.
The disease is characterized by pain of varying intensity in the lower abdomen, the appearance of elevated body temperature, and discharge with fragments of blood or pus. Itching and discharge, as well as discomfort in the vaginal area and labia majora always accompany the appearance of endometritis.
Poor circulation in the tissues of the vaginal mucosa, a tendency to a sedentary lifestyle, and untimely emptying of the contents of the large intestine cause copious white discharge. Such symptoms indicate a violation of the trophism (nutrition) of the genital organs and can provoke diseases with more serious consequences.
Most oral contraceptives change the amount and consistency of leucorrhoea. The same thing is observed when using local contraceptives (suppositories, creams, sprays). Usually, the discharge does not cause itching or irritation, but in case of hypothermia or hot weather, such a circumstance can cause discomfort and a feeling of increased humidity in the intimate area.
After a course of antibiotics, dysbiosis (dysbacteriosis) often occurs. The consequences of this condition are often accompanied by itching, profuse leucorrhoea and the addition of a fungal infection. A more active growth of opportunistic bacterial microflora, as well as the occurrence of inflammatory processes in the genital area, cannot be ruled out.
Discharge, severe itching and irritation appear due to allergic reactions to tampons, sanitary pads, and intimate hygiene products. Violation of the rules of intimate hygiene, untimely change of pads and tampons during menstruation can provoke the appearance of itching, tingling, and white or yellowish vaginal discharge.
Methods and remedies
To prevent discharge and itching in women from becoming a constant companion, causing them to experience discomfort, some irritability, and uncertainty, it is necessary to promptly respond to such symptoms and seek help and advice from a gynecologist. Self-medication in this case can only worsen the situation and lead to chronic diseases.
What a woman can do to prevent itching and vaginal discharge is to follow the rules of personal hygiene, not to overuse douching, lead an active lifestyle, strengthen the immune system, monitor bowel function, and promptly treat acute and chronic diseases.
It is necessary to visit a gynecologist periodically to have information about the state of your health. You should carefully study the composition of intimate hygiene products. They should not contain chemical fragrances, soaps and have a neutral or slightly acidic environment. Intimate hygiene products Lactacid Femina, Epigen Active, and those containing lactic acid have proven themselves to be excellent. They do not disturb the natural microflora, do not wash away the protective layer of intimate areas, therefore do not dry out the skin, eliminate irritation, and restore a feeling of comfort.
It should be remembered that each course of antibiotic use must be accompanied by the use of antifungal agents and drugs that restore microflora in intimate areas.
The use of these medications should definitely be discussed with a gynecologist. Typically, such products come in the form of suppositories and vaginal tablets. They contain probiotics (lactobacillus) as well as lactic acid. This composition allows you to restore the normal balance of microflora in the vagina, suppress the development of fungal and opportunistic microflora.
It is acceptable to use probiotics during pregnancy, endocrine disorders, and menopause.
Of course, there are vaginal suppositories for itching with a specific effect, containing antimicrobial and antimycotic components. But even with their relative safety, such medications should not be used without the consent of your doctor.
Examination, examination, determination of the exact cause of itching and vaginal discharge contribute to the selection of adequate therapy, as well as the required duration of treatment. Only this approach to the problem helps eliminate the disease completely. Some diseases require longer treatment. Even if a woman does not notice obvious symptoms of the disease, taking medications should be stopped only as directed by a doctor based on test data. Otherwise, any gynecological disease can turn into a chronic one. Adverse effects, including those related to reproductive health, may occur.
In case of a bacterial infection, you will have to use antibiotics, antiseptics, and anti-inflammatory drugs. This tactic will be ineffective for candidiasis (thrush), where antifungal drugs will be more effective (Clotrimazole, Mikozhinax, Nystatin, Terzhinan, Polygynax, Pimafucin, Ketokenazole). The low toxicity of Polygynax and Pimafucin makes it possible to use them during pregnancy. However, any medications should be used only after consultation with a gynecologist.
Each specific case requires an individual approach to eliminating itching and vaginal discharge. It makes no sense to try to cope with the problem on your own. A reasonable and professional approach to resolving the issue of itching, burning, and vaginal discharge will allow a woman to regain her health and feel confident.
Olga Smirnova (gynecologist, State Medical University, 2010)
Vaginal secretion is a natural manifestation of the reproductive system of a healthy woman. It not only performs protective functions, but also signals with its consistency, color and smell about negative changes in the body. Both monthly processes in the reproductive system and diseases can cause watery discharge in a woman like water. Therefore, you need to take into account the time of their occurrence, shade and accompanying symptoms. In this article we will analyze the signs of trouble in a woman’s body and its natural manifestations.
What is normal
The cause of the appearance of physiological, watery, odorless discharge may be:
- renewal of the uterine epithelium;
- process of sexual arousal;
- preparing the body for ovulation;
- increased blood flow before menstruation;
- fluid entering the vagina during bathing.
There is no cause for concern, but if a woman has a very liquid secretion for more than five days, there is no need to talk about a natural manifestation. Most often, the symptom indicates pathology.
Copious liquid discharge like water in the middle of the cycle
In the ovulatory phase of the cycle, liquid discharge may occur, including with a slight admixture of blood, which results in a peculiar pink tint.
The appearance of such a secretion is allowed several hours before ovulation, the onset of which can be tracked by basal temperature. Regarding the duration, liquid vaginal secretion can occur in the middle of the cycle after ovulation for up to two days. It may also cause minor pain in the area of the ovaries, but an unpleasant odor always indicates pathology.
Transparent vaginal discharge like water before menstruation
Each woman has a different duration of the menstrual cycle, but its symptoms are almost the same, and they depend on a certain phase, affecting the state of the vaginal secretion. A significant role is played by female hormones. It is the predominance of progesterone or estrogen that causes secretion with certain characteristics to be released.
Sometimes vaginal fluid literally pours or flows, warning a woman that her period is approaching. The fact is that not all women experience spotting bloody secretion before menstruation. A colorless, copious secretion may be present, caused by the accumulation of a large amount of fluid, which spontaneously leaves the reproductive system over time. This volume provokes increased blood flow in the uterus immediately before menstruation.
If the egg has not been fertilized, then the luteal phase begins, which is quite characterized by watery discharge before menstruation. Most often, a woman notices discharge in the morning as water after sleep, and during the day the situation stabilizes.
A few days before the onset of menstruation, a small amount of bloody streaks are allowed in the sexual secretion, but the earlier ones are pink and require diagnosis, because they cannot be associated with natural processes in the body.
Copious watery vaginal discharge after and instead of menstruation
The follicular phase begins on the first day of menstruation and ends before ovulation, and is characterized by increased estrogen production. Liquid or watery discharge during menstruation is never considered normal, but afterwards it is still acceptable. The following options are possible:
- If menstruation has changed consistency and color, then a malfunction in the woman’s body is possible. Bleeding is also possible, due to which the pad gets wet very quickly (less than an hour). You definitely need to visit a gynecologist and undergo an examination.
- If you notice liquid discharge instead of menstruation, you must first take an ultra-sensitive pregnancy test. When conception is excluded, the cause of watery secretion streaked with blood may be associated with hormonal imbalances, taking oral contraceptives, or gynecological pathologies.
Liquid discharge after menstruation is not considered a violation in the first two days, and is classified as postmenstrual, but when it really resembles water and lasts more than two days, then a visit to the gynecologist’s office cannot be postponed.
The norm for the menstrual period is undiluted blood with a small amount of mucus or clots, without the presence of a viscous, bad-smelling substance.
Pregnancy
A natural sign for the gestation period. Nausea and vomiting can occur at the very beginning of pregnancy, but discharge like water during gestation is typical for a later period, from about 12 weeks (second trimester). And it’s all about hormones: at the beginning of pregnancy, progesterone predominates, which makes it thick to protect the embryo, so during the delay and in the early stages, liquid vaginal secretion is rarely observed. After about three months, the body produces more estrogen, which thins the vaginal secretions.
Whitish liquid, should not cause alarm. This sign does not indicate pathology and occurs in most pregnant women.
Important! Throughout pregnancy, any substance coming out of the vagina should not be accompanied by pain.
You should go to the hospital immediately if you experience the following symptoms:
- presence of blood;
- itching and burning sensation;
- severe pain in the lower abdomen;
- sharp redness of the external genitalia.
Pathological secretion during pregnancy can be caused either by ordinary thrush or colpitis, or by more dangerous problems:
- genital herpes;
- bacterial vaginosis.
It is important that the woman receives treatment, otherwise the baby may contract a fungus or infection during childbirth.
After installing the pessary, there should be no discharge as abundant as water. Such a sign may indicate a violation of the integrity of the placenta. Read about what they should be like in the article at the link.
Taking hormonal medications
Pills, patches, suppositories, gels and creams containing estrogen can affect not only menstruation, but also daily vaginal secretions. It has a liquid-like consistency, is almost always transparent, and does not cause discomfort.
If the situation does not stabilize over time, and the panty liner becomes wet within half an hour or earlier, then there is a reason to seek help from a doctor. There is a possibility that the birth control pill or other hormonal drug is simply not suitable and is causing such thin, clear discharge.
Transparent and white discharge in women in the form of water
Transparent, watery and liquid white discharge without odor is the norm, provided that there are no other unpleasant symptoms against its background. The secret must be uniform.
The presence of odorless water is characteristic of the second half of the menstrual cycle. If a woman notices an unpleasant aroma of secretion, then the following cannot be ruled out:
- vulvitis;
- chlamydia;
- candidiasis;
- bacterial vaginosis.
It must be remembered that abundant white liquid is acceptable due to the characteristics of the vaginal environment.
Pink
Very often, pink discharge is associated with the procedure of cauterization of erosion. The following dynamics are noted:
- First 10 days. A colorless and odorless liquid resembling water.
- Next week. A vein of blood may be noted, causing a pale or slightly bright pinkish secretion.
- Further. A thicker brown secretion appears, resembling daub. After this, the usual secretion should be restored.
If watery discharge with blood is not associated with cauterization of your erosion, then the cause may be:
- inflammation;
- polyps;
- fibroids;
- cervical cancer;
- endometriosis;
- removal of adhesions;
- removal of fallopian tubes;
- scraping procedure.
Yellowish
Yellow and, especially with lumps of pus, indicate infectious diseases:
- chlamydia,
- trichomoniasis,
- gonorrhea,
- mycoplasmosis,
- ureaplasmosis.
Additional symptoms worth noting include:
- pain and itching during sex;
- presence of blood in the secretion;
- discomfort in the abdomen and lower back;
- foamy consistency of secretion;
- the presence of clots;
- redness and swelling of the external genitalia.
Yellowish secretion is often associated with adnexitis (inflammation of the appendages).
Brown
Light brown watery discharge is often associated with a developing inflammatory process. If such a symptom is present, it is necessary to undergo tests and undergo an ultrasound to exclude pathologies of the internal organs of the reproductive system.
Such vaginal secretion is normal only two days before and after menstruation, provided there are no unpleasant additional symptoms.
Liquid vaginal discharge during menopause
During menopause, it is normal for a woman to notice slightly watery mucus from the vagina. It continues to perform important functions in the body. But if you experience pain, itching, burning and heterogeneous consistency of the cervical fluid (lumps, clots, etc.), you need to visit a doctor and get checked for infectious diseases and other pathologies of the reproductive system.
Briefly about the main thing
The appearance of the described symptoms in women occurs at any age - from puberty to menopause. In a normal situation, they are associated with the functioning of the reproductive system, but if there is too much secretion, and it is accompanied by unpleasant sensations and pathological symptoms, postponing a visit to the gynecologist is extremely undesirable, even if on women’s forums a similar story ended positively without treatment.
What intimate problems most often bother women in the summer? How to protect yourself from them?
Advised by a doctor of the highest category, head of Moscow antenatal clinic No. 197, gynecologist Irina Ivanovna Kiseleva.
“I sunbathed a lot on vacation. And when I arrived home, I discovered that my thrush had worsened. Previously, this only happened after taking antibiotics. Maybe I need to get my immunity checked?”
Svetlana G., 27 years old, Lipetsk
— Excessive tanning can actually lead to exacerbation of some gynecological diseases and infections. This is due to the fact that excess ultraviolet radiation inhibits the functioning of our immune system. Therefore, both thrush and genital herpes can become worse.
However, this does not mean that you need to immediately go to an immunologist and take immunostimulant tablets. Usually, after the cessation of exposure to a harmful factor - in this case the sun - all indicators are restored on their own. Moreover, in young women this happens quite quickly.
However, you may need antifungal suppositories or tablets. But you don’t need to use the advertised products yourself. Contact your gynecologist. After all, there is a possibility that some other ailment is hiding under the mask of thrush.
It makes sense to go to an immunologist only if traditional treatment turns out to be ineffective. Then you need to be examined in more depth.
“In the summer, I am sometimes bothered by copious clear discharge with an unpleasant odor. Previously, they went away quite quickly without treatment, but now they last almost a month. What do i do?" Anna T., 23 years old, Samara
— Discharge with an odor most often occurs with bacterial vaginosis. This disease is characterized by a wave-like course. It either “calms down” for no apparent reason, or then declares itself with renewed vigor.
Bacterial vaginosis is a gynecological variant of dysbiosis. For various reasons, the normal bacteria that inhabit the vagina disappear. Their absence precisely creates favorable conditions for the proliferation of harmful microorganisms.
In summer, this disease can worsen in those women who wear synthetic underwear in the heat. Frequent douching also leads to disturbances in the vaginal microflora.
But keep in mind: to choose a treatment method, you need to know the exact cause of the discharge. Therefore, first of all, you need to undergo an examination. After all, some other infections can manifest themselves this way. For example, in almost a third of cases with heavy discharge, tests reveal several pathogens at the same time.
If the diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis is confirmed, you will have to undergo a course of treatment. Usually, for this disease, medications are prescribed according to a specific regimen.
The candles used in the first stage almost always contain antibacterial substances. At the second stage of bacterial treatment, suppositories are used to populate the vagina with beneficial bacteria.
“Recently I went to a friend’s dacha and swam with her in a small pool. Naturally, there was no talk of any disinfection of water. And later I found out that my friend was being treated for chlamydia. Could I get infected from it and should I get tested?”
Julia P., 32 years old, by e-mail
— Chlamydia infection is usually transmitted through sexual contact. The household route of infection through water and wet towels is extremely rare. But still possible.
You need to donate blood from a vein to determine chlamydia using the PCR method. At least three weeks must pass from the moment of suspected infection.
At the same time, remember that the detection of chlamydia does not mean that they appeared in the body very recently. If you haven't been tested for this infection before, it may not be a matter of swimming together with a friend.
“A year ago, I was diagnosed with uterine fibroids measuring 2 cm. Apart from heavy periods, it no longer manifests itself. According to ultrasound data, myoma has not increased over the past year. Can I sunbathe on the beach and in the solarium?
Irina V., 44 years old, by e-mail
— Any thermal procedures for fibroids are undesirable, since heating can accelerate tumor growth and further increase blood loss during menstruation. Tanning is also contraindicated for this disease. Both natural and in a solarium.
Of course, you shouldn’t completely give up relaxing by the sea and river. But on the beach you should avoid the open sun. You can take air baths in the shade of trees.
On the days of your period, it is advisable for you to stay in a hotel or any other room with a comfortable air temperature.
“During my last pregnancy, very ugly dark spots appeared on my face from the sun. This time the end of pregnancy also occurs in the summer. I don't want to face the same problems again. How to avoid age spots? Will sunscreen help?
Julia S., Kaluga
— Pigment spots on the face of pregnant women can also appear in winter. They are more related to hormonal changes than to sun exposure. However, exposing your skin to UV rays will certainly increase the likelihood of blemishes.
Therefore, on the street you need to use a wide-brimmed hat. And spend less time in direct sunlight.
But it is better not for expectant mothers to use sunscreens, like any other “chemicals”.
“After swimming in a cold river, I began to feel periodic itching in the intimate organs. It especially bothers me at night. With what it can be connected?"
Galina D., 38 years old, Moscow
— Itching is a symptom of a variety of infections that could be aggravated by hypothermia. This could be ordinary vaginitis, thrush, or sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, you need to visit a gynecologist.
But it is quite possible that the appearance of itching is not at all associated with bathing. And it's just a coincidence. A fairly common cause of itching is an allergic reaction. Consider whether you have recently changed your intimate soap or laundry detergent.
Increased itching at night may be a sign of a helminthic infection. So it would be useful to do an analysis for the presence of helminths.
It is also advisable to donate blood to check your glucose levels. Itching in the intimate organs can also be one of the first manifestations of diabetes.
“Last winter I was hospitalized with adnexitis. The doctor said that I have a chronic process that can periodically worsen. Therefore, I need to be careful and not get too cold. But I forgot to ask if I can sunbathe and swim in the sea?”
Lyudmila, 24 years old, by e-mail
— If the treatment was carried out according to all the rules, then the likelihood of deterioration after a holiday at sea is minimal. But some caution is still necessary.
Reasonable tanning for chronic adnexitis is not contraindicated. But remember that excess ultraviolet radiation reduces the body's immune resistance. Accordingly, there is no need to strive to spend all your free time in the sun. Sunbathe at safe times - before 11 am and after 5 pm. Wait out the most dangerous period indoors.
In addition, with chronic adnexitis, staying on the beach in a wet swimsuit is contraindicated. Change clothes immediately after leaving the water. And swim only if the water temperature is above 25 degrees.
Water from the vagina - such discharge can also (although rarely) bother a woman. Then the question immediately arises: is this phenomenon normal? Yes, if fluid flows from the vagina, but it is not accompanied by other additional signs, such as an unpleasant odor, pain in the abdomen, or discomfort in the form of itching and burning, then most likely there is nothing to worry about. Because this may well be a variant of the norm. However, pathology cannot be ruled out. But in any case, a woman needs to deal with the situation and not leave it unattended. Better yet, visit a doctor.
Sometimes the reason that water flows from the vagina is the natural functioning of the woman’s reproductive organ or some life situations. There are a number of factors that can provoke this:
- renewal of the epithelial layer of the uterus in the vagina (can sometimes be observed during stress, during sexual desire, before ovulation, in early pregnancy);
- when abundant clear vaginal discharge flows like water, this may signal the onset of menstruation - this is explained by the fact that during such a period the blood flow in the uterus increases and a large amount of fluid accumulates, which after a while leaves the reproductive organ by gravity;
- a colorless liquid, like water, can be observed in girls during puberty and mean that their reproductive system is preparing to start working;
- Sometimes water leaks out of the vagina, which entered the body during swimming (in a bath, pool, river).
When is vaginal discharge a pathology?
When liquid, colorless discharge flows with water (like water), it may indicate pathology if other signs are present: redness on the skin, unpleasant smell of discharge and sensations (burning, soreness, itching). The list of female ailments that may cause thin, watery discharge is very extensive. The most common are considered to be bacterial vaginosis, inflammation of the ovaries, endometriosis, endometritis, thrush, and trichomoniasis.
All of them can be a consequence of improper compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene by the woman herself and even her partner, taking antibiotics or other potent medications, penetration of fungal or infectious microorganisms into the vagina or their activation due to a decrease in the protective properties of the female body.
Brief description of pathogenic causes
Bacterial vaginosis
The inflammatory process in the vagina is caused by the active activity of pathogenic microorganisms. In a healthy body, such bacteria represent the normal microflora of the vaginal mucosa. However, due to changes in the conditions conducive to their activity, they become a source of serious pathologies.
With this damage to the vagina, watery discharge may be accompanied by a specific fishy odor, gradually acquiring a thick and yellowish-green consistency.
Decreased immunity is not the only cause of bacterial vaginosis. It can develop due to the use of hormonal and antibacterial drugs, changes in intestinal microflora, stress, an infectious viral disease, or failure to comply with genital care requirements.
Inflammation of the ovaries (oophoritis)
Inflammation of the ovaries is often a continuation of the infection that affects the fallopian tubes, cervical canal or uterus. Less commonly, pathogens can enter through the circulatory and lymphatic systems (for example, with sore throat, appendicitis, tuberculosis, and even incompletely cured caries).
Acute oophoritis may have the following symptoms: watery discharge is the precursor of purulent fluid, increased body temperature (sometimes up to 39º), frequent episodes of urination with severe cutting pain, regular pain on one or both sides of the lower abdomen (the pain can radiate in the sacrum or lower back), general malaise and fever, bleeding during the intermenstrual period, pain during sexual intercourse. During the examination, the doctor notes that the ovaries are enlarged and painful.
Disease of the uterine mucosa is always accompanied by inflammation. This pathology can be caused by E. coli, chlamydia, streptococci, staphylococci, gonococci, Trichomonas, viruses and other pathogenic bacteria. Infection can enter the uterus in three ways:
- ascending path - the infection comes from the vagina, cervix;
- through blood;
- through lymph.
Already in the first week, when diagnostic measures are still being carried out, the following symptoms may appear in acute endometritis:
- the woman’s well-being is gradually deteriorating, she has no appetite, and has a constant headache;
- temperature rises to 39º;
- stomach pain (the pain can be completely different in both intensity and strength);
- gradually colorless vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor increasingly resembles a purulent-bloody mixture;
- rare, but bleeding from the uterus cannot be ruled out.
Thrush, or candidiasis in the vagina
The main reasons influencing this process are current inflammatory processes in the female reproductive organs, general diseases of an infectious nature, constantly new sexual partners, the use of glucocorticosteroids, constipation, diabetes, lack (or excess) of vitamins in the body, violation of the canons of intimate hygiene, long-term antibiotic therapy (especially with uncontrolled use and self-medication), pregnancy, use of combined hormonal drugs (estrogens contained in them provoke the growth of glycogen in cells, which is required for the life support of fungi), etc.
Thrush, or urogenital candidiasis in women can take one of two forms:
- vulvovaginitis - simultaneous inflammation is localized in the vagina and vulva;
- Vulvar dermatitis - affects the skin of only the outer areas of the reproductive organs.
The main signs of thrush in women are considered to be the following:
- curd-like vaginal discharge;
- liquid and colorless discharge from the urethra due to its close location to the vagina;
- swelling of the vulva;
- anxiety caused by burning and itching in the perineum, which is constant or periodic;
- urinary disturbance, manifested by pain and frequent urges;
- redness and bleeding of mucous membranes;
- the skin of the vulva is characterized by redness, the presence of abrasions and macerated areas;
- a white-gray coating on the mucous membrane, which is almost impossible to remove even with the help of an instrument;
- areas of redness under a whitish coating;
- discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse.
With frequently recurrent thrush in women, the clinical picture is completely different. In such a situation, dryness in the vagina, atrophy of the mucous membranes, an excessively keratinized layer in the vulva area are observed, vaginal discharge is still the same - white, but it is very scanty.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection. Therefore, the main cause of infection with trichomonas (the causative agents of trichomoniasis) is considered to be unprotected sexual intercourse.
It is easy to recognize the infection by the inflammatory processes occurring in the vagina and cervix. Often complications of trichomoniasis include endometritis, endocervicitis, and paraurethritis. Therefore, the symptoms of these pathologies are added to the symptoms of this disease.
A distinctive feature of trichomoniasis in women is an unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge. They can be described as a foamy liquid with a yellowish tint. Moreover, the discharge is often associated with itching and burning in the genitals.
The main reasons for the appearance of watery discharge in women were listed above - normal and pathological variants.
However, this is not a complete list. Therefore, there is no need to waste time. It is better to consult a doctor immediately.
