What should be done if a woman has excessive vaginal discharge with a fishy odor?
Below refers to the genital area. Increased moisture and a fishy odor in the female genital region may be caused by factors such as ovulation, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. Women can receive symptomatic treatment based on the specific underlying cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Ovulation Period
During ovulation, elevated estrogen levels in women may lead to increased vaginal discharge. This discharge is typically clear or milky white, odorless or with a mild sour smell. This is a normal physiological condition and does not require special treatment.
2. Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection usually caused by bacteria. It may result in increased vaginal discharge accompanied by a distinct fishy odor. The discharge is typically thin, grayish-white or yellowish-white, and sometimes frothy. Women can use medications such as metronidazole suppositories or nifuratel tablets under medical guidance.
3. Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a vaginal infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It may lead to increased vaginal discharge with a noticeable unpleasant odor. The discharge is typically yellow-green, frothy, and has a strong fishy smell. Women can use medications such as tinidazole vaginal effervescent tablets or antimicrobial effervescent tablets under medical supervision.
4. Vulvovaginal Candidiasis
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common vaginal infection caused by Candida species. It may cause increased vaginal discharge accompanied by itching, genital discomfort, and a fishy odor. The discharge is typically thick, white, and resembles cottage cheese. Women can use medications such as terbinafine hydrochloride vaginal effervescent tablets or itraconazole capsules under medical guidance.
5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is a serious infection that usually involves the uterus, fallopian tubes, and adjacent organs. PID can cause increased vaginal discharge along with a fishy odor, abdominal pain, fever, and other symptoms. Women can use medications such as Fule tablets or cefoxitin sodium for injection under medical direction.
In addition, cervical cancer may also cause these symptoms. It is recommended that women seek timely medical attention to avoid unpredictable complications.