What can cause abnormal vaginal discharge?

What can cause abnormal vaginal discharge?

There are several reasons why an abnormal vaginal discharge may occur including:

• Vaginal infections (vaginal infections):
• Candida (thrush).
• Trichomonas vaginalis.
• Bacterial vaginosis.
• Cervicitis (cervical erosion).  
• Cervical ectopy (cervical erosion).
• Cervical polyps (cervical polyps)
• Foreign body such as a retained tampon. Occasionally a tampon may be inadvertently forgotten. If a tampon should be forgotten for a few days, a serious condition called 'Toxic Shock Syndrome' can develop (5). Children may explore themselves with various objects. In addition to vaginal discharge, a 'foreign body' left in the vagina is associated with some blood stained discharge.
• Perfumed soaps.
• Douching too frequently: this may result in excessive discharge.
• Atrophic vaginitis. After the menopause the natural vaginal secretions diminish. The vaginal lining may become inflamed leading to discharge, which can be blood stained. Other reasons for such blood stained discharge must be excluded by your doctor before local oestrogen treatment (Q 28.2) or HRT (HRT-hormone-replacement-therapy).
• Blood stained discharge may occasionally be the presenting symptom of cervical cancer. (Q32.07).

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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.

I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.