Do you have a chronic vaginal discharge that is accompanied by an unpleasantodor? If so, you’re not alone, it’s a problem that affects many women, but unfortunately most of them don’t know what these symptoms mean.
Vaginal discharge and odor
A vaginal discharge and odor is not always a cause for concern, because women typically have a discharge that has a slight odor. However, if there is an increase in the normal discharge or if it changes color, or develops an unusual odor, it may be time to seek help.
What does chronic discharge and odor mean?
Vaginal secretions emanate from glands within the walls of the vagina and bathe the tissues, helping to keep the vagina clean and healthy.
The vagina consists of strains of both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria, but the good bacteria are typically plentiful. However, if there is a shift in the normal bacterial milieu and the good bacteria declines, it can lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria. This scenario is referred to as an altered vaginal microflora pattern.
When the vaginal discharge from an altered vaginal microflora pattern coats the vaginal mucosa, it irritates the tissues, and causes an unpleasant odor (learn more).
Treating chronic discharge and odor
In order to properly treat chronic discharge and odor,it’s important to identify the vaginal constituents. At Fowler GYN International, this is done with the assistance of a vaginal fluid analysis (VFA) test. If there is an altered vaginal microflora pattern resulting in a diagnosis of inflammatory vaginitis, patients are given a customized treatment protocol to restore the flora pattern to a normal state.
Are you experiencing chronic discharge and odor? Contact the experts in vaginal care at Fowler GYN International, Paradise Valley, AZ for a consultation.
You can reach them at www.fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001.