Abnormal Discharge and Lower Back Pain in Women

Increased discharge and lower back pain?

After my third year in college, I experienced my menstrual cycle twice within a two-week period.
After consulting with a gynecologist and undergoing an ultrasound, the doctor prescribed birth control pills to regulate my cycle, which has since stabilized.
However, I later developed vaginitis, for which I have seen several doctors, but it keeps recurring.
I have adjusted my diet to ensure it is balanced and have avoided cold foods and drinks, yet I still experience a significant amount of discharge.
A year ago, I had a Pap smear that came back normal.
Last month, due to the increased discharge, I consulted a gynecologist again.
After an internal examination, it was determined that I had mild vaginitis, with some redness and dryness in the vulvar area.
After applying medication, it improved quite a bit, but I still experience a light yellow discharge daily (similar in quantity to my menstrual flow).
I can feel it when I go to the restroom, and the texture is similar to egg whites—sticky but not itchy, with a slight fishy odor.

This week, I started experiencing lower back pain and occasional lower abdominal pain, which has made me quite anxious.
I would like to know what tests I can request from my doctor to identify the underlying cause (such as pelvic inflammatory disease or tumors).
Since I am studying away from home, the gynecological clinics near my house only perform internal examinations, which makes me feel uneasy.
I am unsure how to approach my doctor to request more in-depth testing, as the discharge issue has been bothering me for a long time.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/29

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is recommended to undergo a Pap smear if one has not had one in the past year.
Recurrent vaginitis is related to individual constitution and lifestyle habits, so it is advised to reduce the intake of sweets and avoid staying up late.

Reply Date: 2016/05/29

More Info

Understanding abnormal discharge and lower back pain in women can be complex, as these symptoms can arise from various underlying conditions. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing persistent abnormal discharge, which has been diagnosed as a mild vaginal infection, along with lower back pain and occasional abdominal discomfort.
Firstly, it's important to recognize that abnormal vaginal discharge can have multiple causes, including infections (like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections), hormonal changes, or even anatomical issues. The fact that you have been on birth control pills to regulate your menstrual cycle suggests that hormonal factors could be influencing your symptoms. Birth control pills can help stabilize hormone levels, but they may also lead to changes in vaginal flora, which can predispose you to infections.

The yellowish discharge you describe, which is similar in texture to egg whites and has a slight odor, could indicate a few things. While a mild vaginal infection has been diagnosed, the persistent nature of your symptoms suggests that it may not have been fully resolved. It's also worth noting that some women experience increased discharge during ovulation, which can be normal. However, if the discharge is accompanied by discomfort, it may warrant further investigation.

Lower back pain in conjunction with abnormal discharge can be concerning. It could be related to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is an infection of the reproductive organs that can cause pain and abnormal discharge. PID can occur as a complication of untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other infections. Additionally, conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids can also lead to both back pain and abnormal discharge, as they can affect the pelvic area.

To address your concerns and find the underlying cause of your symptoms, it would be advisable to seek a thorough evaluation from a gynecologist. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Request Comprehensive Testing: When you visit your gynecologist, express your concerns clearly. Ask for specific tests such as:
- Pelvic Ultrasound: This can help visualize any structural abnormalities in the reproductive organs, such as cysts, fibroids, or signs of endometriosis.

- STI Testing: Since some infections can lead to PID, testing for STIs is crucial if you are sexually active.

- Vaginal Cultures: To identify any specific infections that may not have been detected previously.

2. Discuss Symptoms in Detail: Be open about all your symptoms, including the nature of the discharge, any changes in your menstrual cycle, and the specifics of your back pain. This information can help your doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

3. Consider a Referral: If you feel that your current gynecological care is not addressing your concerns adequately, consider asking for a referral to a specialist, such as a reproductive endocrinologist or a pelvic pain specialist.

4. Lifestyle and Home Remedies: While you seek medical advice, continue to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and practice good hygiene. Avoid irritants such as scented soaps or douches that can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

5. Follow-Up: If you start any new treatment or if your symptoms change, make sure to follow up with your healthcare provider to reassess your condition.

In conclusion, while abnormal discharge and lower back pain can be distressing, they are often manageable with the right medical care. By advocating for yourself and seeking thorough evaluations, you can work towards finding a solution that alleviates your symptoms and addresses any underlying issues. Remember, it's important to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and symptoms to ensure you receive the best possible care.

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