What are the different types of herpes discharge. How can you identify herpes discharge by color and smell. What are the key symptoms of herpes infections. How to manage herpes symptoms effectively.

Understanding Herpes: Types and Transmission

Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of herpes:

• HSV-1: Typically associated with oral herpes
• HSV-2: Usually causes genital herpes

HSV-1 is primarily transmitted through oral contact, such as kissing, while HSV-2 is spread through sexual contact, including anal, oral, or genital sex with an infected person. It’s important to note that both types can infect either area.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 491 million people aged 15-49 worldwide have HSV-2 infection, highlighting its prevalence and ease of transmission.

Recognizing Herpes Symptoms

Herpes symptoms can vary but often include:

• Clusters of small, round, painful sores or blisters
• Headache
• High fever (101°F or above)
• Body aches
• Pain during urination
• Tingling sensation in legs
• Genital irritation, itching, or burning
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Abnormal discharge

Herpes Discharge: What You Need to Know

Herpes discharge is a common symptom of genital herpes infections. But what exactly is herpes discharge, and how does it differ from normal bodily fluids?

Characteristics of Herpes Discharge

Herpes discharge often exhibits the following characteristics:

• Thicker or heavier than usual
• Pus-like consistency
• Green, grey, or yellow in color
• White and clumpy (similar to cottage cheese)
• Unpleasant, fish-like odor

These symptoms may be accompanied by genital discomfort, bleeding, pelvic pain, or the presence of sores or blisters on the genitals.

Penile vs. Vaginal Herpes Discharge

Herpes discharge can occur in both men and women, but there are some differences in how it presents:

Penile Discharge

In men, herpes discharge is emitted from the penile head. It may be mistaken for semen or pre-ejaculate due to its appearance. The discharge can be clear and thin or murky and thick.

Vaginal Discharge

Women experience herpes vaginal discharge leaking from the vaginal opening. The odor is typically more noticeable in females and tends to worsen after sexual activity.

In both cases, the discharge may contain small amounts of blood, which can also be present during urination.

The Importance of Odor in Identifying Herpes Discharge

One of the key identifiers of herpes discharge is its distinct odor. But what does herpes discharge smell like?

Herpes discharge typically has a strong, foul, and pungent odor often described as “fishy.” This smell is more noticeable in women and may become more pronounced after sexual activity. In men, the odor might only be detectable during ejaculation.

It’s important to note that while odor can be an indicator, it should not be the sole basis for diagnosis. Always consult a healthcare professional if you suspect you may have a herpes infection.

Managing Herpes Symptoms

While herpes is a chronic condition with no cure, its symptoms can be effectively managed. How can you alleviate herpes symptoms?

Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Solutions

Some herpes symptoms can be managed with home remedies or over-the-counter (OTC) medications. These may include:

• Warm baths to soothe genital areas
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction
• Applying ice packs to sores to alleviate pain
• Using OTC pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Applying topical anesthetics to reduce pain and itching

Professional Medical Treatment

For more severe symptoms or frequent outbreaks, professional medical treatment may be necessary. This often involves antiviral medications such as:

• Acyclovir
• Valacyclovir
• Famciclovir

These medications can help reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks, as well as lower the risk of transmission to sexual partners.

Prevention and Risk Reduction

While herpes can’t be cured, there are ways to reduce the risk of transmission and manage the condition effectively. What steps can be taken to prevent herpes transmission?

• Practice safe sex by using condoms and dental dams
• Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks
• Communicate openly with sexual partners about STI status
• Consider suppressive therapy with antiviral medications
• Maintain good hygiene practices

It’s crucial to remember that even with these precautions, there’s still a risk of transmission, as herpes can spread even when no symptoms are present.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While some herpes symptoms can be managed at home, certain situations require immediate medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare professional about herpes symptoms?

• If you’re experiencing your first outbreak
• If you’re pregnant and have herpes or suspect you may have been exposed
• If outbreaks are severe or frequent
• If you’re experiencing complications like difficulty urinating
• If you have a weakened immune system

Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms more effectively and reduce the risk of complications.

Living with Herpes: Emotional and Mental Health Considerations

A herpes diagnosis can have significant emotional and mental health impacts. How can individuals cope with the psychological aspects of living with herpes?

Emotional Impact

Receiving a herpes diagnosis can trigger a range of emotions, including:

• Shock
• Anger
• Shame
• Anxiety
• Depression

It’s important to recognize that these feelings are normal and that having herpes doesn’t define you as a person.

Coping Strategies

There are several strategies that can help in coping with a herpes diagnosis:

• Educate yourself about the condition
• Join support groups or online communities
• Practice self-care and stress management
• Seek professional counseling if needed
• Be open with trusted friends and family members

Remember, millions of people worldwide live with herpes and lead fulfilling lives. With proper management and support, you can too.

Herpes and Pregnancy: Special Considerations

Herpes can pose unique challenges during pregnancy. What should expectant mothers with herpes know?

Risks to the Baby

The primary concern is the potential transmission of the virus to the baby during childbirth, which can lead to neonatal herpes. This condition can be serious, potentially causing complications such as:

• Skin, eye, and mouth infections
• Central nervous system damage
• Disseminated infection affecting multiple organs

Management During Pregnancy

Proper management can significantly reduce the risk of transmission to the baby. This may include:

• Regular check-ups with an obstetrician
• Antiviral medication during the third trimester
• Possible cesarean section if an outbreak occurs near delivery time

It’s crucial for pregnant women with herpes to inform their healthcare provider about their condition to ensure appropriate care and precautions are taken.

Advances in Herpes Research and Treatment

While herpes remains incurable, ongoing research offers hope for improved management and potential future treatments. What are some recent advancements in herpes research?

Vaccine Development

Several potential herpes vaccines are in various stages of development and clinical trials. These vaccines aim to either prevent infection or reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks in those already infected.

Gene Editing

Researchers are exploring the use of gene editing technologies like CRISPR to target and eliminate the herpes virus from infected cells. While still in early stages, this approach shows promise for potentially eradicating the virus.

New Antiviral Drugs

Scientists are working on developing new antiviral medications that could be more effective at suppressing the virus and reducing outbreaks. Some of these drugs aim to work differently from current antivirals, potentially offering better results or fewer side effects.

While these advancements are exciting, it’s important to remember that they are still in research stages. Current management strategies remain the best approach for those living with herpes today.

Herpes and Other STIs: Understanding the Connections

Having herpes can increase the risk of contracting or transmitting other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). How does herpes interact with other STIs?

Increased HIV Risk

People with herpes have a higher risk of contracting HIV if exposed. The open sores caused by herpes can provide an entry point for the HIV virus. Additionally, having herpes can make a person more susceptible to HIV even when no sores are present.

Co-infections

It’s possible to have herpes along with other STIs. Some common co-infections include:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Syphilis

Having multiple STIs can complicate treatment and increase health risks, making regular STI testing crucial for sexually active individuals.

Impact on Testing and Treatment

The presence of herpes can sometimes affect the testing and treatment of other STIs. For example, herpes sores can make it more challenging to accurately diagnose certain infections or may interfere with the effectiveness of topical treatments for other conditions.

Given these interactions, it’s essential to disclose all symptoms and potential exposures to healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive and accurate testing and treatment.

Herpes Myths and Misconceptions

Despite its prevalence, herpes is often misunderstood. What are some common myths about herpes, and what’s the truth behind them?

Myth 1: Herpes is rare

Truth: Herpes is extremely common. Globally, an estimated 3.7 billion people under age 50 have HSV-1 infection, while about 491 million people aged 15-49 have HSV-2 infection.

Myth 2: You can only transmit herpes during an outbreak

Truth: While the risk is highest during outbreaks, herpes can be transmitted even when no symptoms are present through a process called asymptomatic shedding.

Myth 3: Herpes always causes noticeable symptoms

Truth: Many people with herpes are asymptomatic or have such mild symptoms that they don’t realize they’re infected.

Myth 4: Condoms provide complete protection against herpes

Truth: While condoms reduce the risk of transmission, they don’t provide complete protection as herpes can be present on areas not covered by condoms.

Myth 5: Herpes is a life-ruining diagnosis

Truth: While herpes is a chronic condition, it’s manageable. Many people with herpes lead normal, healthy lives with satisfying relationships.

Dispelling these myths is crucial for reducing stigma and ensuring that people seek appropriate care and support when needed.

The Future of Herpes Management

As research continues, what might the future hold for herpes management and treatment? While it’s impossible to predict with certainty, several promising avenues are being explored:

Improved Diagnostic Tools

Researchers are working on developing more accurate and accessible diagnostic tools. These could include rapid at-home tests or improved blood tests that can distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2 more reliably.

Personalized Treatment Approaches

Advances in genetic research may lead to more personalized treatment plans. By understanding how individual genetic factors influence herpes outbreaks and responses to treatment, healthcare providers could tailor therapies more effectively.

Novel Drug Delivery Methods

New ways of delivering antiviral medications are being studied. These could include long-acting injections or implants that provide continuous medication release, potentially reducing the need for daily pills.

Immunotherapy

Researchers are exploring ways to boost the immune system’s ability to fight herpes infections. This could lead to treatments that not only manage symptoms but also help the body suppress the virus more effectively.

Combination Therapies

Future treatments might involve combinations of different approaches, such as antiviral medications paired with immune-boosting therapies or gene-editing techniques.

While these potential advancements offer hope, it’s important to remember that they are still in development. Current management strategies remain the best approach for those living with herpes today.

Conclusion: Living Positively with Herpes

A herpes diagnosis doesn’t have to be a life-altering event. With proper understanding, management, and support, individuals with herpes can lead fulfilling, healthy lives. Key takeaways include:

• Herpes is a common condition affecting millions worldwide
• While there’s no cure, symptoms can be effectively managed
• Open communication with healthcare providers and partners is crucial
• Safe sex practices can reduce transmission risk
• Emotional support and self-care are important aspects of living with herpes
• Ongoing research offers hope for improved treatments in the future

Remember, having herpes doesn’t define you. By staying informed, seeking appropriate care, and maintaining a positive outlook, you can navigate life with herpes successfully. If you have concerns about herpes or other STIs, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and support.

Herpes discharge – all about the different types

If you have recently noticed your discharge to have turned foul-smelling and of an unusual color, you most likely have a yeast infection, thrush, or any other sexually transmitted infection (STI). In case of abnormal discharge coupled with sores on the mouth or genitals, your condition may be herpes. While herpes discharge is concerning, it can be treated following a prompt diagnosis. Herpes discharge is one of the symptoms that make this STI contagious. According to a report by WHO, the HSV-2 is so common and easily spread that an estimation of 491 million people over the world who fall in the age group of 15-49 have this infection.

Herpes is a sexually contracted or transmitted infection (STI) classified into two types: the HSV-1 and the HSV-2 respectively known as oral herpes and genital herpes. While they are untreatable illnesses, their symptoms can be largely reduced by antiviral agents. Since HSV-1 is oral herpes, it is transmitted via making contact with the mouth of a person with herpes, such as in the act of kissing. On the other hand, genital herpes or HSV-2 can be contracted upon having unprotected anal, oral, or genital sex with someone who already has the virus. The latter type of herpes virus is more commonly diagnosed in females or people with vulvas.

Symptoms of Herpes

Both types of herpes virus show somewhat similar symptoms. One of the most common ones during a herpes outbreak includes the onset of one or more clusters of round, small, and painful sores, which bear some semblance to pimples or blisters, filled with clear fluid. Since these blisters occur at the site of infection, the HSV-1 blisters form inside of or around the mouth, while the HSV-2 blisters form around the mouth (in case of oral sex), around the anus, genitals, bottom, or thighs.

Aside from blisters, other symptoms observed in an outbreak of the herpes virus include, but are not limited to:

• Headache
• High fever or temperate (101°f or above)
• Pain in multiple areas of the body
• Pain during urinating
• Tingling in legs
• Irritation, itching, or burning in the genital area
• Swelling in lymph nodes of the neck
• Herpes discharge

Abnormal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is normal and its amount varies throughout the different phases of your menstrual cycle. Most pregnant women observe a ‘pregnancy discharge’; other women sometimes show brown discharge at the end of their period. While a healthy and normal discharge does not have a strong odor or any visible color, this is not the same for people with herpes. The concern arises specifically for herpes discharge when your emitted fluid shows one or more of the following characteristics.

• The discharge is thicker or heavier than usual
• Herpes discharge could have pus-like consistency
• Herpes discharge color is green, grey, or yellow
• White and clumpy (consistency almost like that of cottage cheese)
• Unpleasant odor (fish-like)

Along with the abnormal colors of herpes discharge and other patent characteristics of herpes discharge, there are other symptoms too. These may include itching, burning, or sore genitals, bleeding, pelvic pain, or sores/blisters on your genitals coupled with herpes discharge.

Penile and Vaginal Discharge

Bodily discharge is sometimes commonly associated with genital herpes. It occurs in men and women who experience recurrent outbreaks of herpes. The term discharge refers to the leaking or emission of fluid from a human’s genitalia or sex organs. In a male, the herpes discharge is emitted from the penile head, whereas in a woman, herpes vaginal discharge leaks out from the vaginal opening.

A person experiencing herpes discharge will notice that it is different from that of a normal discharge. It has a strong, foul, and pungent odor in both men and women, generally described as “fishy”. However, the smell is more noticeable in females and noticeable in men only when they ejaculate. For this reason, the discharge in men due to genital herpes is usually confused for semen or pre-ejaculate. The foul odor associated with herpes discharge gets worse after sex.

In both cases, whether it is herpes vaginal discharge or penal discharge, the appearance of the liquid may be clear and thin or it can be a murky and thick fluid. In addition to the colorless fluid, some people may even observe a small amount of blood leak from either of the sex organs in the discharge or during urination.

Managing Herpes Symptoms

While some of the symptoms of a herpes outbreak can be managed by home remedies or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, others need immediate assistance from a healthcare professional. One of the most promising home remedies is using a warm bath regularly to alleviate any sort of discomfort and inflammation caused by the blisters. Since these sores are contagious, it is best to avoid any intimacy, such as sex or kissing, during a herpes outbreak. Other self-care tips for preventing the worsening or spread of herpes include:

• Gently wash the skin around your genitals with warm water
• Avoiding scalding hot water baths
• Avoiding strong scented soaps, wipes, or deodorants in the name of hygiene products
• Avoiding scrubbing or thoroughly washing your vagina, termed douching
• Strictly avoid sharing sex toys
• Avoid wearing panty liners on a daily basis
• Removing thongs and lycra from your items of clothing and wearing soft cotton underwear

Other home remedies to reduce any risk of infection include applying a warm compress or an ice pack to the affected area, keeping the area clean and dry, and refraining from popping blisters or picking at scabs over healing sores. It is also advised to avoid wearing any tight clothing, such as thongs or other items of clothing that will stick to your genitals and worsen your sores. Additionally, some OTC medications can be consumed regularly under medical supervision, such as Acyclovir, which is an antiviral agent, and acetaminophen.

When to Consult Your Doctor?

It is important to see a doctor as soon as you suspect your symptoms to be those of herpes. A prompt diagnosis would allow you to fully understand how herpes may affect your daily life, followed by treatment and preventative measures to avoid the spread of this sexually transmitted infection (STI). Timely treatment reduces the frequency and severity of the recurring herpes outbreaks.

Your doctor is likely to give you the following advice to manage herpes discharge and other symptoms:

• Reduce your sexual activity
• Use a condom during penetrative or oral sex with your partner
• Using protection even in oral sex, such as a penile condom or dental dam
• Avoid sex if you or your partner are facing a herpes outbreak
• Frequently change your underwear in case of penile or vaginal herpes discharge

See Also: How Do I Know If I Have Herpes Or A Pimple?

Takeaway

Some people do not take herpes seriously since it is an illness that cannot be cured. However, you must see a doctor immediately if you observe any herpes discharge or other common symptoms. The ‘treatment’ of herpes mostly revolves around taking measures that limit the frequency and strength of any outbreaks you may have. If your treatment is successful, your herpes vaginal discharge will return to normal discharge.

At Family Medicine Austin, we offer diagnostic-based healthcare. Book your appointment with the best board-certified doctors now and learn more about herpes discharge management from our expert medical team.

Herpes Discharge: What Different Types Indicate

Genital herpes can cause both penile and vaginal discharge. See a doctor if you notice this or other symptoms. Herpes can’t be cured, but it can be treated to limit outbreaks and stop it from spreading.

Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by one of two types of the herpes simplex virus (HSV):

• type 1 (HSV-1): usually called oral herpes because it causes outbreaks of canker sores in the mouth that can be painful or produce a fluid called pus
• type 2 (HSV-2): usually called genital herpes because it causes symptoms like painful sores and discharge from the genitals

Most people with herpes never have symptoms, but herpes is a common condition.

More than 3.7 billion people are thought to have HSV-1. About 400 million people between 15 and 49 years old are estimated to have HSV-2.

HSV-1 is spread by making contact with someone’s mouth who has the virus, such as by kissing.

HSV-2 is commonly spread by having unprotected oral, anal, or genital sex with someone who has the virus, even if they aren’t showing any symptoms. It’s also more common in people with vulvas.

Symptoms like discharge can make the virus even more contagious, so recognizing this symptom can help you get tested and start taking preventive measures right away.

Discharge can be a symptom for all people. How common it is and what that discharge looks like can vary.

Here’s a quick overview of what herpes-related discharge looks like in people with penises and people with vulvas.

Herpes vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge associated with herpes usually takes the form of a thick and clear, white, or cloudy liquid. It’s most common to have discharge when you’re having other symptoms like sores.

This liquid also tends to happen along with a strong smell that many people with herpes describe as “fishy.” This smell usually gets stronger or more pungent after having sex.

This discharge may have small amounts of blood in it. You may also notice some blood or discharge in your urine, even if you aren’t experiencing any herpes symptoms.

Herpes penile discharge

Penile discharge caused by herpes is a thick and clear, white, or cloudy liquid that appears at the opening of the penis head.

As is the case with vaginal discharge, penile discharge may also have a strong, smelly, “fishy” odor when it comes out, especially if it comes out along with semen when you ejaculate during sex.

An odor may not be as noticeable in penile discharge. This is because the vagina contains numerous colonies of healthy bacteria, called flora, that can mix with herpes discharge and change the natural smell of the vagina.

The penis doesn’t contain any of the healthy bacterial colonies that live in the vagina, so the smell will only come from the discharge itself.

Because the penis only has this one exit point through the urethra (the tube where urine and semen come out), discharge may come out by itself or be mixed in with urine.

You may also sometimes see blood in the discharge or when you urinate.

The most common symptom of a herpes outbreak is one or more clusters of small, round, painful sores that look like blisters or sometimes pimples filled with clear fluid.

These blisters can appear at the point of infection.

HSV-1 blisters usually form around or inside the mouth. HSV-2 blisters form around your genitals, your anus, or your mouth if you’ve gotten the virus from oral sex with someone who has the virus.

Other possible symptoms of a herpes outbreak include:

• pain or aches in your head or around your body
• swelling of your lymph nodes
• fever of 101°F (38°C) or higher
• pain or tingling in your legs

See a doctor as soon as possible if you notice genital discharge that may be associated with herpes or any other STI.

A diagnosis can help you understand how herpes affects you and start taking preventive measures to keep from spreading the infection to anyone with whom you have sex.

Getting treatment for herpes outbreaks can help reduce the severity of your symptoms and also might help limit how many outbreaks you have throughout your lifetime.

Here’s how to decrease the chances of getting or spreading herpes when you have sex:

• Use a condom if you have penetrative genital or anal sex.
• Use protection whenever you have oral sex, such as a dental dam or penile condom.
• Limit or avoid sex if you or a partner are having an outbreak of symptoms.

Stop having sex and see a doctor as soon as possible if you notice discharge or other common herpes symptoms. A doctor can test the discharge to diagnose a herpes infection or test for other STIs.

Herpes can’t be cured, but it can be treated throughout your lifetime to limit how many outbreaks you have and to help you keep from spreading it to other people.

Protect yourself whenever you have oral, anal, or genital sex. Don’t share anything that’s touched (or you think may have touched) another person’s mouth, genitals, or anus.

Smelly discharge: types of discharge in women

Comment from an expert
Gynecologist Anastasia Degteva

“Discharge that can stain underwear is completely normal. Usually they are transparent and viscous, in the middle of the cycle they can be more abundant. In the presence of itching, burning or an unpleasant odor, you should not engage in self-diagnosis and self-treatment! Even an experienced gynecologist without tests will not be able to make an accurate diagnosis, since the symptoms of most diseases are very similar. Self-medication can change the picture of the disease, make it difficult to diagnose, cause a relapse, or require more serious therapy.

In the vast majority of cases, the discharge is absolutely normal and is not a cause for concern, but there are still some types of discharge that should be alarming and require a doctor’s consultation.

What is vaginal discharge? What discharge is normal?

Vaginal secretions are produced by various glands inside the vagina and cervix. These glands produce small amounts of fluids, also called vaginal secretions or lubrication. This fluid flows out of the vagina every day, helping the organ clear out the dead cells that build up on the walls of the vagina. This is a completely natural and healthy process by which our body maintains the health and cleanliness of the organs of the female reproductive system.

Discharge varies from woman to woman. For some, the discharge is more abundant and occurs every day, while for some it is noticeable only in certain phases of the cycle.

Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear or milky and may have a slight odor. Unfortunately, a harmful stereotype is widespread that there should be no smell, but not any vaginal discharge with a smell is a sign of pathology, but only those whose smell is sharp or unpleasant.

It is also important to remember that the discharge changes with the phase of the cycle, especially during ovulation, when the discharge becomes larger and more slimy, similar in texture to egg white.

During such periods, many women experience some discomfort, because the amount of discharge becomes quite significant, in some it increases 20-30 times compared to normal. Of course, it’s unpleasant to feel that your panties are wet in the middle of the day, so Kotex panty liners are especially relevant for convenience on such days. Kotex panty liners are ideal for any type of discharge. Panty liners of the new Kotex Natural line are made of 100% cotton and tested by dermatologists, they are hypoallergenic, and this is especially important for sensitive skin and the bacterial environment of the intimate area.

But, of course, one must be able to distinguish between normal and pathological discharges.

What are the types of discharge?

Smelly curdled discharge and white profuse odorous vaginal discharge.

These are typical signs of thrush. Other symptoms: vaginal itching, soreness, burning, pain. Some women experience pain during sex and urination, as well as redness, swelling, or rash in the pubic area. You need to see a doctor.

Clear discharge with odor

If the smell is not sharp or unpleasant, then this is a normal type of discharge for the period of ovulation.

Profuse yellow discharge with odor in women.

Such discharge is a sign of a bacterial infection and is characteristic of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as gonorrhea and trichomoniasis. They have an unpleasant, pungent smell. You need to see a doctor, get tested for STDs and, if positive, tell your sexual partners. Other symptoms: itching, inflammation, pain, but these symptoms are not always present.

Bloody discharge with an unpleasant odor.

This discharge is normal during ovulation and 1-2 days before and after menstruation. The smell is due to the presence of hemoglobin in the blood. In the air, it oxidizes, and the blood acquires a characteristic metallic odor. In other periods of the cycle, such discharge is not normal, they can be a sign of serious illness.

In general, discharge with an unpleasant odor in women is abnormal, and in itself is a reason to consult a gynecologist for advice. Most often, pathological discharge is associated with STDs.

What diseases cause atypical discharge?

Bacterial vaginosis.

A fairly common type of bacterial infection. Discharge from vaginosis is quite abundant, often with a sharp, “fishy” odor, but can also be asymptomatic .. An increased risk of getting sick in women who have several sexual partners.

Trichomoniasis.

A disease caused by protozoan unicellular organisms, transmitted sexually. Symptoms vary, most often it is impossible to diagnose it on your own. Even in the absence of symptoms, the carrier can transmit the disease to other people, and you can become infected not only during sex, but also during a kiss or using the same toothbrush or towel.

Thrush.

Fungal infection, in addition to discharge, itching and burning are characteristic of it. Caused by the pathological reproduction of the fungus, which is also present in the healthy flora of the vagina. Risk factors: stress, diabetes, oral contraceptives, pregnancy, antibiotics.

Gonorrhea and chlamydia.

2 more types of sexually transmitted infections. They develop when abnormal bacteria multiply in the vagina and other reproductive organs.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer.

HPV is sexually transmitted and can lead to cervical cancer. Often asymptomatic, but may cause bloody, brown, or watery discharge. It is very important to undergo an annual examination by a gynecologist and do a Pap test, which determines if there are cancer cells in the uterus. In addition, a vaccine against this virus is already available today.

What can be done to reduce the risk of infections?

1. Maintain good hygiene by washing daily with a mild, gentle soap or special unscented gel. You can wash the vagina only from the outside, soap should not get inside. This will help maintain the acid-base balance, which is necessary for a healthy microflora.

2. Never douche, especially with aggressive means. Douching DOES NOT cleanse the vagina of harmful bacteria, it washes out from the inside all the bacteria in general, including the beneficial ones, namely they fight the disease-causing ones. Even douching with water can upset the bacterial balance of the vagina. There is no scientific evidence that douching helps prevent STDs and vaginal infections. Moreover, it only increases the risk of infection.

3. After using the toilet, always wipe the vagina from the clitoris to the anus. This will help keep out harmful bacteria.

4. Try to wear 100% cotton underwear and avoid clothing that is too tight. Non-natural fabrics and tight clothing can cause excessive sweating, and warm, humid places are ideal breeding grounds for bacteria. Of course, if you want to wear something special, then a couple of times will not do much harm, but such things are not designed to be worn on an ongoing basis.

5. Use condoms EVERY time you have sex without the intent of conceiving a child. Feel free to ask your partner to show you an STD-free certificate. Your health is much more important than someone else’s selfishness and dangerous stereotypes. Remember that many infections are transmitted not only through sexual contact, but also through other bodily fluids, such as saliva from kissing or oral sex.

6. Try to use breathable sanitary napkins and change them according to the instructions and when they get dirty. The blood that leaves the body is sterile, but over time, bacteria grow in a warm and humid environment.

7. During menstruation, it is better to wash yourself a couple of times a day.

8. Do not use vaginal fragrances or deodorants. It is normal that you have your own smell, and if it is not sharp and unpleasant, then this is not a sign of illness.

All women aged 25 to 65 should have an annual gynecological examination of the cervix and Pap test (during which a sample of cells is taken and the laboratory checks for cancer). This helps to track cancer in the early stages of development.
Please remember that this disease responds well to treatment in the early stages. It also makes sense to get tested for the presence of human papillomavirus, and if you are not infected, get vaccinated.

Symptoms of cervical erosion | Zdorov’ya Rodini

True erosion of the cervix appears when the integumentary epithelium is damaged as a result of exposure to chemicals (soap, medicines, acids, alkalis), trauma by third-party bodies (tampons, diaphragms, douching tips, intrauterine devices), after any manipulations on the cervix. When viewed in mirrors, the area of ​​erosion on the cervix will be in a swollen, loose state, often bright red, with bleeding symptoms. In this case, a woman may have complaints of spotting from the genital tract, red or brown, soreness and bleeding after intercourse. These symptoms appear immediately after exposure to any of the above factors and disappear on their own after erosion has healed (within 1-2 weeks), if the damaging factor is eliminated.

Ectopia (pseudo-erosion) is a normal condition in certain periods of a woman’s life: during puberty, pregnancy, while taking hormonal drugs. Since the cylindrical epithelium has only one layer of cells, the vessels are visible through it and give the ectopic area a bright red tone. For the most part, ectopia proceeds without symptoms, but it happens that women may complain of copious mucous secretions that appear as a result of mucus production by the columnar epithelium, this is its main function. With large sizes of ectopia, constant mucous discharge can cause serious discomfort in women. A rare symptom of ectopia can be spotting after sexual intercourse, physical exertion.

Inflammatory currents in the cervix and vagina (cervicitis, colpitis) are accompanied by reddening of the cervix, which, according to the primary symptoms, can be mistaken for erosion. A woman will be disturbed by vaginal discharge of a yellowish, greenish color, sometimes with an unpleasant odor. With severe inflammation, there may be discharge of a purulent nature, accompanied by discomfort, itching, burning.

Under the influence of various pathogens, the picture on the cervix may be different. The causative agent of gonorrhea (gonococcus) and chlamydia affect only the cylindrical epithelium and cause the formation of abundant cloudy mucus, often yellow. In this case, the vaginal part of the cervix may be without visible changes.

Sources that can provoke changes in the squamous epithelium include human papillomavirus, herpes simplex virus type 2 (genital herpes), the causative agent of syphilis, and a number of others.

Human papillomavirus causes a variety of changes: flat warts on the cervix, dysplasia of the squamous epithelium of the cervix. During the examination of the cervix, the doctor may see obvious tumor-like formations (condylomas) or redness of various sizes in different types of areas of the cervix. HPV infection lives in the body without symptoms.

Herpes simplex virus (type 2) during primary infection leads to viral cervicitis in 70-80% of women. Predominantly herpes cervicitis is also asymptomatic in its development. In some cases, women develop purulent and bloody discharge. On examination, the neck is bright red, with a loose surface, sometimes with areas of defects (true erosions) that appear when herpetic vesicles rupture.

The syphilis pathogen (Treponemapallidum), in turn, activates changes in the cervical epithelium only 3-5 weeks after infection. The primary tumor in the form of a papule (hard chancre) 5-15 mm in size quickly ulcerates and completely disappears after 3-6 weeks without treatment. Chancres on the cervix are often not diagnosed due to the absence of symptoms. If pathological changes in the cervix are detected, the doctor should always rule out syphilis using modern methods for diagnosing this disease.

It must be remembered that pathological changes in the cervix can be observed with sarcoidosis, venereal lymphogranulomas, actinomycosis, genital tuberculosis, some parasitic and protozoal infections (amebiasis, for example).

Atrophic changes in the epithelium may occur in women with low estrogen levels (eg after menopause) and may be accompanied by spotting because the mucosa is very thin and bleeds easily.

If the doctor finds some incomprehensible red spot on your cervix and says that you have erosion, what should be done in this case? First you need to undergo an examination, which must include:

• cytological examination (pap test), which shows the presence or absence of atypical (precancerous) cells;
• analysis of secretions, which allows you to identify the inflammatory process;
• colposcopy – examination of the cervix under magnification.