Vaginal Discharge: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns

Vulvovaginal candidiasis

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you a few questions.
A few days ago, I suddenly noticed white vaginal discharge, and starting Sunday, I experienced some itching in my genital area.
On Monday, I bought a vaginal suppository called Nystatin to use.
Today, I visited a gynecologist, who said they would perform a bacterial culture.
Just now, when I urinated and wiped, I noticed a little yellow discharge.
About six or seven years ago, I had yellow discharge once, and the doctor only mentioned inflammation and prescribed a suppository and medication.
I used to experience genital itching quite frequently, about once a year, but I haven't had any itching in the last three to four years.
I have a few questions for the doctor: 1.
Is the yellow discharge serious? Why does the doctor want to perform a culture? I'm quite worried.
2.
My menstrual period is expected to start in a few days; should I continue using the suppository? 3.
Should I continue using the Nystatin suppository I bought, or switch to the Clindamycin vaginal suppository prescribed by the doctor?

Wenwen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, please take the medication as directed by your physician.
Stop using the suppositories when your menstruation begins.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/04/27

More Info

Understanding vaginal discharge is crucial for maintaining reproductive health, as it can be indicative of various underlying conditions. In your case, the sudden appearance of white and then yellow discharge, accompanied by itching, raises several important points to consider.

1. Nature of Discharge: The presence of yellow discharge can be concerning, as it may suggest an infection. Common causes of yellow discharge include bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. The fact that your doctor recommended a bacterial culture indicates that they are looking to identify the specific pathogen responsible for your symptoms. This is a standard procedure when there are signs of infection, as it helps tailor the treatment to the specific bacteria involved.

2. Severity of Symptoms: While yellow discharge can be alarming, it is essential to understand that not all cases are severe. The severity often depends on accompanying symptoms such as pain, fever, or systemic illness. If the discharge is accompanied by significant discomfort, fever, or other systemic symptoms, it may warrant more urgent treatment. However, the fact that your doctor is conducting a culture suggests they are taking a cautious approach to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

3. Menstrual Cycle Considerations: Since you mentioned that your menstrual period is due soon, it is generally advisable to continue with any prescribed treatments unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider. However, the use of vaginal medications during menstruation can sometimes be less effective due to the presence of menstrual blood. It’s best to consult your doctor about whether to continue with the current treatment or switch to the one they prescribed.

4. Medication Choices: Regarding the choice between the over-the-counter medication (宁司泰定) and the prescription medication (洛黴欣), it is crucial to follow your doctor’s advice. If your doctor has prescribed a specific treatment, it is often because they believe it will be more effective based on your current condition. If you have already started the over-the-counter treatment, inform your doctor about it. They may advise you to stop it and switch to the prescribed medication, especially if they believe the prescription will better address the underlying issue.

5. Follow-Up Care: After the culture results are available, your doctor will likely discuss the findings with you and recommend a treatment plan based on the specific bacteria identified. It’s essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that the treatment is effective and to monitor any changes in your symptoms.

In summary, while the presence of yellow discharge and itching can be concerning, it is essential to approach the situation with a clear understanding of the potential causes and treatments. Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations closely, and do not hesitate to reach out to them with any further questions or concerns. Maintaining open communication with your doctor will help ensure that you receive the best possible care for your symptoms.

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