Leucorrhoea is a thick, whitish or yellowish vaginal discharge. It is the most commonly experienced condition of women of reproductive age. Women experiencing vaginal discharge, at first instance, feel very embarrassed and worried as to why they are suffering from this problem. Though majority of the women fear and think of it as a disease, usually it is a sign of just an infection. It is normal to experience vaginal discharge few days before menarche (before a woman starts on her periods for the first time), just before periods and during a sexual fantasy or sexual stimulation. Some amount of discharge is normal and essential for vaginal lubrication. However, the amount of discharge may increase due to vaginal infections and may come and go from time to time.
Leucorrhoea – Causes:
- pregnancy, premenstrual or menstrual periods and congestion of the uterus;
- infection of female genital organs;
- irritation due to mechanical factors such as use of chemical contraceptives, intrauterine devices, etc.;
- emotional causes such as stress, anxiety, work pressure and sexual anxiety;
- hormonal irregularities;
- errors in diet, excessive use of stimulants, e.g., tea, coffee, alcohol and smoking; and
- medical conditions such as anaemia, tuberculosis, etc.
Leucorrhoea – Symptoms:
- intense itching of the vulva;
- soreness of the vulva;
- unusual vaginal discharge;
- fish-like smelly discharge;
- yellowish or thick curd-like discharge;
- vaginal bleeding in between two menstrual cycles;
- severe pain or menstrual-like cramps in the lower part of the abdomen;
- pain during or after sex;
- bleeding during or after sex;
- pain while passing urine;
- vaginitis;
- skin lesions around the vagina;
- vulvae edema (swelling of the vagina); and
- lower back pain.
Leucorrhoea – Diagnosis:
- duration of the complaint;
- type of fungal infections;
- frequency of sexual intercourse;
- consistency, colour and odour of the discharge;
- the time modality when it tends to increase; and
- the contraceptive history.
