Increased Vaginal Discharge: Causes and Concerns for Women

The secretion is increasing (seems to be getting more severe)?

Hello Doctor, I was pregnant for nearly 8 weeks when I was 18-19 years old and underwent a medical abortion as per the physician's instructions (it seems to have been RU486).
After the abortion, I was prescribed a 3-day course of anti-inflammatory medication.
About 1.5 months later, I started experiencing discharge, which was initially colorless and odorless, but gradually turned slightly yellow.
During sexual intercourse, I experienced a nerve pain at the base, which made me reluctant to engage in sexual activity.
I sought medical attention again and was prescribed another 7-day course of anti-inflammatory medication, but the discharge has increased.
It has now become a creamy yellow with an odor, and sometimes it unexpectedly leaks out even when I haven't used the restroom at work.
I also experience vaginal gas during urination, but I do not have any itching symptoms.
I would like to ask the doctor if this is a typical inflammatory response or if there could be an underlying condition.
Could this severely impact my future fertility? What methods can be used to improve this situation? Thank you for your help!

Miu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/19

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, I apologize for not being able to provide a diagnosis based on what you've described.
It could be inflammation.
If you continue to feel unwell, I recommend visiting a hospital to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/03/19

More Info

Increased vaginal discharge can be a common concern for many women, and understanding its causes and implications is crucial for maintaining reproductive health. Based on your description, it appears that you have experienced a progression of symptoms following a medical abortion, including changes in the color and odor of your discharge, as well as discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that vaginal discharge can vary significantly among individuals and can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, infections, and other medical conditions. Normal vaginal discharge is typically clear or milky and does not have a strong odor. However, when the discharge changes to a yellow or green color, especially if accompanied by an unpleasant odor, it may indicate an infection or other underlying condition.

Given your history of a medical abortion and subsequent symptoms, there are several potential causes for your increased discharge:
1. Infections: The most common infections that can cause increased discharge include bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as trichomoniasis or chlamydia. Bacterial vaginosis, in particular, is characterized by a fishy odor and a grayish discharge, while yeast infections typically present with thick, white discharge and itching.

2. Hormonal Changes: After a medical abortion, your body undergoes hormonal fluctuations as it returns to its pre-pregnancy state. These changes can affect the vaginal flora and lead to increased discharge.

3. Cervical or Uterine Issues: Sometimes, conditions such as cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix) or endometritis (inflammation of the uterine lining) can occur after an abortion, leading to increased discharge and discomfort.

4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): If the infection spreads to the reproductive organs, it can lead to PID, which can cause chronic pelvic pain, increased discharge, and potential long-term reproductive issues.

Regarding your concerns about fertility, while many infections can be treated effectively, untreated infections, particularly PID, can lead to scarring and damage to the reproductive organs, potentially impacting future fertility. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.

To address your symptoms and concerns, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to see a gynecologist or healthcare provider who can perform a thorough examination, including pelvic exams and possibly laboratory tests (such as swabs or cultures) to identify any infections.

2. Treatment: If an infection is diagnosed, appropriate antibiotics or antifungal medications will be prescribed. It’s important to complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.

3. Follow-Up Care: After treatment, follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that the infection has resolved and to discuss any ongoing symptoms.

4. Maintain Good Hygiene: Practice good vaginal hygiene, avoid douching, and use unscented products to minimize irritation. Wearing breathable cotton underwear can also help.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your discharge, odor, or discomfort, and report these to your healthcare provider.

In summary, while increased vaginal discharge can be a normal occurrence, changes in color, odor, and associated symptoms warrant further investigation to rule out infections or other medical conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications and preserving reproductive health.

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