Excessive Vaginal Discharge During Intercourse: Is It Normal or a Sign of Infection? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Excessive vaginal discharge during sexual intercourse?


I'm not a doctor, but I can provide some information based on your questions.
1.
It is not typical for vaginal discharge during sexual activity to be thick, white, and have a strong odor.
Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear or milky and does not have a strong smell.
The symptoms you describe could indicate a bacterial infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection.
It would be advisable for your girlfriend to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation and possible testing.
2.
A strong odor coming from the vaginal area, especially if it is noticeable before sexual activity, could also suggest an infection or other issue.
While it is true that urine can sometimes contribute to odor, persistent or strong odors are often a sign that something may be wrong.
Your girlfriend should consider consulting a healthcare professional.
When she sees the doctor, she can explain her symptoms honestly, including the odor and any discharge issues.
Healthcare providers are trained to handle such discussions sensitively and confidentially.

It is important for her to seek medical advice to ensure her health and well-being.

Wang Didi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/02/24

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello: Regarding your inquiry, here is the response: During normal sexual activity, the cervical mucus from the vagina is secreted in large amounts and is colorless and transparent.
However, vaginal epithelial cells shed daily and mix with the mucus, resulting in a white, mucous discharge that typically does not have a foul odor.
Based on your described symptoms, it appears that an infection may have occurred.
It is recommended that you undergo a gynecological examination and have a vaginal discharge sample tested for further information.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2011/02/24

More Info


Excessive vaginal discharge during intercourse can be a common concern for many individuals, and it is important to understand the potential causes and implications of such symptoms. Based on your description, it seems that your girlfriend is experiencing a significant amount of white, thick discharge that has a foul odor, which raises some important questions regarding her vaginal health.

1. Normal vs. Abnormal Discharge: It is essential to recognize that vaginal discharge can vary significantly among women. Normal discharge is typically clear or milky and does not have a strong odor. It can increase during ovulation or sexual arousal. However, if the discharge is thick, white, and has a strong, unpleasant odor, it may indicate an underlying issue, such as a bacterial infection or a yeast infection. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition that can cause a fishy odor and an increase in discharge, while a yeast infection often results in thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese.

2. Signs of Infection: The presence of a strong odor, especially if it is fishy, along with the excessive discharge, suggests that your girlfriend may have an infection. It is crucial for her to see a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation. The provider may perform a pelvic exam and take samples to determine the cause of the discharge and any potential infections.

3. Hygiene Practices: You mentioned that your girlfriend sometimes does not wash before intercourse, which can contribute to the presence of odor. While it is normal for the vagina to have a natural scent, poor hygiene can lead to an imbalance in the vaginal flora, increasing the risk of infections. Encouraging good hygiene practices, such as washing before sexual activity, can help reduce the risk of infections and improve overall comfort during intercourse.

4. Discussing with a Doctor: If your girlfriend decides to see a doctor, she should feel comfortable discussing her symptoms openly. She can explain that she has been experiencing excessive discharge during intercourse, describe the characteristics of the discharge (color, consistency, odor), and mention any other symptoms, such as itching or irritation. It is important for her to be honest about her hygiene practices and any changes she has noticed in her body.

5. Potential Treatments: If an infection is diagnosed, treatment may involve antibiotics for bacterial infections or antifungal medications for yeast infections. It is important for both partners to be treated if a sexually transmitted infection (STI) is suspected to prevent reinfection.

In conclusion, while some vaginal discharge during intercourse is normal, excessive discharge that is thick, white, and has a foul odor is not typical and may indicate an infection. It is advisable for your girlfriend to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Open communication about these issues is vital for both partners to maintain a healthy sexual relationship.

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