What is Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge is the product of your vagina cleaning and protecting itself from outside influences. Often, the vagina expels different types of discharge at different stages of your reproductive cycle, meaning you can use it as a way to track your ovulation or menstruation. For example, discharge that is clear and stretchy can signal that you’re ovulating while discharge that is brown or dark can signal that your period may be approaching. However, certain types of vaginal discharge can accompany health concerns, so it’s important to know what to look for.
Why is Vaginal Discharge Important?
Abnormal vaginal discharge can be an indicator that you’re experiencing different kinds of infections. For example, sexually transmitted infections can accompany discharge that is yellow or green in color, while discharge from a yeast infection can be white and thick. These often come with other symptoms like discomfort, fatigue, and itchiness, so you should be sure to speak with your gynecologist if you notice anything different than usual. Untreated infections and vaginal health concerns can have a long-term impact on your health if they’re left untreated.
How Can My Gynecologist Help?
If you’ve been noticing unusual discharge, then you should see your gynecologist. It’s important to discuss your symptoms and any detailed information you can give about your discharge so your gynecologist can perform the right tests and assess what might be causing it. Many types of vaginal infections can be easily treated with the right medications, but abnormal discharge can sometimes be more serious and require further testing. Either way, your gynecologist can ensure you remain healthy and can take the right steps to prevent infections in the future.
Schedule an Appointment
Although vaginal discharge can be perfectly normal, it’s important to know when you should see your gynecologist for treatment. To meet with our expert team and discuss your symptoms, contact our New York City office by calling or filling out our online form.
