Women begin to experience vaginal discharge as part of the bodily changes that occur during puberty. Hormonal changes, sexual activity, breastfeeding, and the menstrual cycle can all trigger this discharge.
However, when vaginal discharge occurs after a woman enters menopause, concerns often arise. Is it something to worry about, or is this a normal bodily reaction? This article will review the medical facts about postmenopausal vaginal discharge and the signs to watch out for.
Is it normal to experience vaginal discharge after menopause?
The body naturally produces vaginal discharge to keep the vaginal environment moist and clean. While it's more common in women of childbearing age, vaginal discharge can also occur in women who have entered menopause.
After menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels in the body decrease. The vaginal walls tend to become dry and thin due to these changes. However, the vagina can still produce fluid, albeit in smaller amounts than during menstruation.
In some cases, hormonal changes can cause vaginal discharge that is still normal. If the discharge appears unusual in color, quantity, or causes symptoms such as an unpleasant odor or itching, it's likely a fungal or bacterial infection.
The difference between healthy vaginal discharge and those that require concern can be seen in its color, consistency, and odor. By recognizing these characteristics, women can be more alert to conditions that require medical attention.
Normal Vaginal Discharge
Healthy vaginal discharge is produced naturally as the body maintains moisture and prevents infection in the reproductive area. Healthy vaginal discharge typically has the following characteristics:
- Clear, white, or cream colored.
- The texture is light, not too thick or lumpy.
- It doesn't have a strong odor.
- They are few in number and appear periodically, not continuously.
As long as it is not accompanied by itching, burning, or an unpleasant odor, vaginal discharge is generally nothing to worry about.
Vaginal Discharge That You Need to Watch Out For
When vaginal discharge exhibits abnormal symptoms, it could be a sign of an infection or abnormality in the vaginal area. Here are some signs of suspicious vaginal discharge:
- The liquid has a fishy or pungent odor.
- Itching in the vaginal area, accompanied by irritation or redness.
- Vaginal discharge comes out in large quantities and continuously.
- There is a burning sensation in the vaginal area.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- The fluid that comes out has a white color and a thick consistency that resembles lumps of cheese.
- Greenish yellow liquid.
- Pink or brown colored fluid.
Consultation with a doctor is necessary if you experience these symptoms, to confirm the diagnosis and get the right treatment.
Tips for Avoiding Abnormal Vaginal Discharge and Maintaining Vaginal Health
To maintain vaginal health and prevent abnormal vaginal discharge, here are some preventative steps you can take:
- Choose underwear made of loose cotton that is good at absorbing sweat.
- Keep your intimate area dry by wiping it with a clean towel after every shower or toilet visit. Wipe from front (vagina) to back (anus) to prevent cross-infection from anal bacteria.
- The vaginal area should be cleaned with water without using soap or products containing perfume.
- Change your underwear immediately if it starts to feel damp or wet to maintain the cleanliness of the intimate area.
- Avoid using sanitary napkins, pantyliners, wet wipes, or feminine hygiene products that contain chemicals, perfumes, or dyes, as they can trigger irritation.
Furthermore, adopting a healthy lifestyle is also crucial. Consume nutritious foods, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and avoid excessive stress to ensure your immune system remains optimally equipped to fight infection.
Consult Your Condition with a Doctor
During postmenopause, vaginal discharge may still occur and usually doesn't indicate a serious health problem. However, if the discharge changes color, has a strong odor, becomes thick, or is accompanied by symptoms such as itching and pain, consult a doctor immediately.
The sooner treatment is sought, the lower the risk of the condition progressing to more severe conditions. Through a medical evaluation, the cause of the vaginal discharge can be identified and appropriate treatment can be provided.
This article was written by Dr. Beta Andewi Resti Anggraheni, Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Sentul Hospital).