Vaginal Itching and Lower Back Pain After Childbirth

Q: Vaginal Itching and Lower Back Pain After Childbirth

Hello： Green vaginal discharge may indicate a trichomoniasis infection, and a fishy odor may suggest a bacterial infection. <br>Please seek medical attention promptly. <br>Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Vaginal itching and lower back pain?

Hello, doctor! Recently, I've been experiencing intermittent itching in the external vaginal area.
There is a greenish discharge, which sometimes has a sour smell and at other times a fishy odor.
Even after having intercourse, I notice greenish color on the tissue when I wipe.
I’m also unsure if this is related to the fact that I often have back pain since giving birth.
This has been going on for quite some time! Whenever the greenish discharge starts, I also feel discomfort in various areas, with persistent back pain and abdominal bloating.
Could you please help me understand what symptoms I might be experiencing? Thank you!

bu jie de nu ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/13

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Green vaginal discharge may indicate a trichomoniasis infection, and a fishy odor may suggest a bacterial infection.
Please seek medical attention promptly.
Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2005/05/13

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several underlying issues following childbirth. The symptoms you describe—vaginal itching, greenish discharge with varying odors, and persistent lower back pain—are concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Vaginal Infections: The greenish discharge, especially if it has a foul odor, could indicate a bacterial infection such as bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like trichomoniasis. Both conditions can cause itching and unusual discharge. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate testing and treatment.

2. Hormonal Changes: After childbirth, your body undergoes significant hormonal fluctuations. These changes can affect vaginal flora and lead to infections or irritations, which might explain the itching and discharge.

3. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: The lower back pain you are experiencing could be related to pelvic floor dysfunction, which is common after childbirth. The pelvic floor muscles may become weakened or strained during delivery, leading to discomfort and pain in the lower back and abdomen.

4. Cervical or Uterine Issues: If there were any complications during delivery, such as cervical lacerations or retained products of conception, these could lead to ongoing symptoms. It's crucial to ensure that your uterus has returned to its normal state post-delivery.

5. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Sometimes, UTIs can present with lower abdominal pain and discomfort, which might be mistaken for back pain. If you are experiencing any urinary symptoms, such as increased urgency or pain during urination, this could be a contributing factor.

Recommendations for Management
1. Seek Medical Evaluation: Given the combination of symptoms, it is essential to see a healthcare provider. They may perform a pelvic exam, take samples for laboratory testing, and possibly conduct imaging studies to rule out any complications.

2. Maintain Hygiene: Ensure that you are practicing good hygiene, especially after using the restroom or engaging in sexual activity. Avoid using scented products or douches, as these can irritate the vaginal area.

3. Pain Management: For lower back pain, consider gentle stretching exercises, heat application, or over-the-counter pain relief medications, as recommended by your healthcare provider.

4. Follow-Up Care: If you are diagnosed with an infection, follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding treatment and follow-up appointments to ensure the infection is fully resolved.

5. Pelvic Floor Therapy: If pelvic floor dysfunction is suspected, a referral to a physical therapist specializing in pelvic health may be beneficial. They can provide exercises and techniques to strengthen the pelvic floor and alleviate pain.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are not uncommon after childbirth, but they should not be ignored. The combination of vaginal itching, unusual discharge, and persistent lower back pain suggests that a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve your overall well-being. Please make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to address these concerns.

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