Prevention of Leukorrhea - An Overview

Introduction

Vaginal discharge or natural vaginal secretions are normal. Women may notice these discharges between their menstrual periods and must be aware that these secretions are normal. These are usually white in color and are necessary to prevent infection and provide lubrication. However, the color, type, and amount of discharge vary between individuals and between the different periods of the menstrual cycle. The term leukorrhea or leucorrhea denotes abnormality in the vaginal discharge (more milky white in appearance) that is seen between periods and white vaginal discharge during pregnancy. Increased white discharge may also be a sign of infection and is a common problem that women should not ignore. Measures to prevent or control such white discharges or abnormal leukorrhea are necessary to ensure proper vaginal hygiene.

What Is a Normal Vaginal Discharge?

A normal vaginal discharge is usually clear to white or slightly yellow in color and is thin in consistency. The discharge volume increases two weeks before menstruation and may be altered by birth control methods or pills. One must be aware that normal discharge or leukorrhea does not have a bad odor and does not cause irritation or itching. These consist of mucus or liquid that helps clean up the vagina, bacteria (good and bad), and some yeasts. The good bacteria in the vaginal discharge helps to maintain balance in the vagina and prevent the growth of fungus and bad bacteria.

Moreover, the definition of leukorrhea differs between women depending on the cause, such as infection or hormonal fluctuations. In some cases, leukorrhea may disappear and reappear from time to time. Suppose the white vaginal discharge is heavy; it can cause infections and eventually turn green or yellow with a fishy odor. A heavy white discharge or leukorrhea also causes irritation, itching, tissue inflammation, and pain.

Does Leukorrhea Indicate a Vaginal Infection?

A normal vaginal discharge or white discharge (leukorrhea) does not mean that there is a vaginal infection. The various signs that could denote vaginal infection include:

1. A musky vaginal odor that lasts more than a day.

2. Thick, white discharge.

3. Itching, irritation, or burning sensation in the vagina.

4. Any new change in the vaginal discharge.

5. Pain during urination.

6. Pain during intercourse.

7. Tenderness or pain in the lower abdomen.

8. Abnormal vaginal discharge with sores, blisters, or bumps in the genital area.

Is Leukorrhea Normal During Pregnancy?

Leukorrhea that is thin, milky white, and odorless (or mild smelling) is completely normal in pregnancy. In fact, the amount of white discharge may increase as the pregnancy progresses. The leukorrhea during pregnancy may be heavier than the white discharge that is normally experienced between periods. When a woman is expecting, her estrogen levels increase, leading to increased pelvic blood flow. This stimulates the vaginal mucous membranes to increase the white discharge during pregnancy. Leukorrhea during pregnancy protects the vagina, prevents infections, helps remove dead cells in the vagina, and maintains a healthy vaginal balance. However, if the vaginal discharge becomes thick and lumpy, with other signs such as fishy odor or itching, it could indicate infection. Consulting a specialist is necessary in case of abnormal leukorrhea and signs of infection.

How to Prevent and Manage Leukorrhea During Pregnancy?

Tips to prevent the mess made by increased leukorrhea during pregnancy include:

1. Pregnant women must bathe regularly and wash their private areas more frequently.

2. Pregnant women must wear innerwear (underpants) with breathable cotton liners.

3. Keeping the genital area clean and dry to prevent bacterial and fungal growth (that lead to vaginal infections) is essential.

4. Panty liners or pads to absorb the excess white discharge can help pregnant women feel more comfortable.

5. During pregnancy, one must avoid using tampons to absorb the white discharge as it can introduce microorganisms into the vagina, leading to infections.

6. Pregnant women must avoid douching during pregnancy. It is unsafe and upsets the natural vaginal balance leading to infections.

7. Do not use wipes to clean the vaginal discharge, as these could alter the vaginal pH. Though increased leukorrhea is messy, it helps in self-cleansing the vagina.

Can Abnormal Leukorrhea Be Avoided or Prevented?

A normal vaginal discharge or white discharge is natural. It is not possible or advisable to prevent it completely. However, abnormal leukorrhea or increased white discharge with signs of infections can be prevented and managed with home remedies and personal care. Measures must be initiated to prevent and reduce the chance of vaginal infections. One must do the following:

• Gently wash the genital area and around the vagina with water.

• Avoid using douches or scented products around the vagina that could lead to infections and irritations.

• Clean and pat dry the area around the vagina thoroughly.

• Wear breathable cotton underwear during the day, as cotton allows the genital area to breathe. Avoid wearing underpants at night if possible.

• Use a barrier method or condom during intercourse or any sexual activity to reduce the chance of infections.

• Clean their sex toys to maintain vaginal hygiene to prevent infections.

• Change their tampons and pads frequently during menstruation.

• Maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet.

• Maintain good personal hygiene.

• Always wipe from the front (vaginal area) to the back (rectal area) after using the toilet. This helps to prevent bacteria from the back from entering the vagina.

• Avoid wearing tight clothes in the genital area for a long duration. Tight pantyhose, pants, swimsuits, leotards, or biking shorts must be changed into breathable clothes as soon as possible.

• Avoid detergents or fabric softeners that might irritate the genital area.

• Avoid using latex condoms and sperm-killing gels, as these birth control methods can irritate the vagina.

• Consult the healthcare provider in case of abnormalities in the vaginal discharge.

• Shower and bathe daily.

• Avoid using hot tubs and bubble baths.

• Avoid using perfumed toilet paper, feminine hygiene sprays, deodorant tampons, and pads.

Conclusion

Hormonal fluctuations and other changes in a woman's body can lead to white vaginal discharge or leukorrhea. The consistency and amount of vaginal discharge change throughout the woman's menstrual cycle. Increased leukorrhea can be caused by various conditions such as menstrual cycle changes, pregnancy, vaginal infections, etc. Though leukorrhea is common, it is essential to visit the healthcare provider if a woman faces unusual leukorrhea. Increased leukorrhea during pregnancy or during the menstrual cycle can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Home remedies and measures to manage the increased vaginal discharge can help prevent infections and discomfort caused by abnormal leukorrhea.