Physiological discharge

Normal vaginal flora (lactobacilli) colonise the vaginal epithelium and may have a role in defence against infection. They maintain the normal vaginal pH between 3.8 and 4.4. The quality and quantity of vaginal discharge may alter in the same woman in cycles and over time; each woman has her own sense of normality and what is acceptable or excessive for her.

Pathological vaginal discharge

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common infective cause of vaginal discharge that affects about 75% of women at some time during their reproductive life, with 40-50% having two or more episodes. Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common diagnoses in women attending genitourinary medicine clinics. As 50% of cases of bacterial vaginosis are asymptomatic, the true prevalence of this condition in the community is uncertain. Bacterial vaginosis is associated with a new sexual partner and frequent change of sexual partners. A reduced rate of bacterial vaginosis is seen among women in monogamous sexual relationships, but it can occur in virginal women. Increased rates of bacterial vaginosis occur in certain groups of women, such as black African women, lesbians, and smokers.

Recurrence of bacterial vaginosis after treatment is common and can be increased by personal hygiene practices, such as vaginal douching, that disrupt the normal vaginal flora. Bacterial vaginosis may also be associated with concurrent STIs, commonly …