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    Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Female -- Vaginal Discharge/Infections > Excessive vaginal discharge
    Posted on: 01/31/2008

    Question

    I have heavy vaginal discharge. I normally have to change my underwear twice a day (though sometimes phsyical activity can make it worse), use pantyliners, or tampons. The discharge is healthy, and I am reguarly checked for STD's and do not have a yeast infection. I'm 20 and have been on the pill for over 4 years. I'm also fairly sexually active. The problem has actually been ongoing since I was about 12, and sexual activity, and the pill seem to have little effect.

    While the discharge itself is not strong smelling, it soaks through my jeans and pants, and often leaves my thighs sticky. However, the amount means once the discharge begins to "stale" the smell can be quite a problem, and if i don't carefully take care of it, quite embarrassing (probably the best way I can describe it, as the smell isnt there to begin with, or when the discharge is direct from my vagina).

    The doctor was unable to provide much useful information, except to tell me what it was not. I want to know if I should consult a specialist, if it is normal, and how can I deal with it if it is?

    Are there vitamins that will help? Healthy bacteria products like Yakult or Inner Health Plus that will help? (I understand they help with vaginal pH levels, could this be a factor?) Any feminine hygiene products of particular use for managing this? Thanks :)


    Answer

    It sounds like your physician felt that this was a normal vaginal discharge. If it does not have a distinct foul odor or not experiencing any vaginal irritation, it is most likely a physiologic discharge you are experiencing and not an infection. Sounds like you have regular check ups and std screening which is great. Some women have more normal dishcarge than others. There is no need to treat the vaginal discharge. Douching can only put you at more risk for developing a bacterial infection. Normal washing with a non-irritating hypoallergenic soap is all you need to clean the vulvar area.


    Answered By:
    Nicole Hong , M.D.


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