Vaginal Odor and Discharge: Causes, Treatments, and Management

The vagina is a sensitive area for women, and any slight change can be easily perceived. In particular, the presence of an unusual odor and discharge is often indicative of a health issue. There are numerous reasons that can lead to vaginal odor and discharge, and if the symptoms are severe, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Failure to do so can exacerbate the condition and potentially lead to other health complications.

1. What Causes Vaginal Odor and Discharge?

Vaginal discharge, especially when accompanied by an odor, is often a sign of increased vaginal secretions, which can indicate the presence of an infection. There are various factors that can contribute to this, including vaginal inflammation, submucosal fibroids, precancerous lesions or cervical cancer with concurrent infection. All these conditions can lead to an abnormal odor in vaginal discharge. If such symptoms occur, it is recommended that women undergo a gynecological examination, especially a vaginal examination, to determine the underlying cause. This may include tests of vaginal secretions. If the discharge is due to submucosal fibroids or cervical disease, further precancerous screenings may be necessary to identify the cause of the cervical lesion. Based on the results, appropriate diagnosis and treatment plans, such as surgical intervention, can be formulated to prevent further complications.

2. How to Manage Vaginal Odor?

Vaginal odor is often caused by vulvovaginal inflammation. In such cases, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly for a gynecological examination and routine vaginal secretion tests. Since vulvitis often coexists with vaginitis, treatment should be tailored according to the results of the vaginal examination. Common inflammatory conditions that can cause odor include trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis. Both conditions can be treated with vaginal irrigation and topical medication. Trichomoniasis can be treated with oral metronidazole or vaginal metronidazole suppositories, typically for a duration of 7-10 days. For bacterial vaginosis, vaginal irrigation combined with antifungal gels, anti-inflammatory suppositories, or other topical medications can be used, with a typical treatment course of about one week.

3. How to Manage Vaginal Itching and Odor?

If there is itching and odor in the vulva, it is most likely caused by bacterial vaginosis or a mixed infection involving bacterial vaginosis and candida infection. Clinically, in addition to itching and odor, vaginal secretions may appear as cottage cheese-like or thin and watery. In such cases, compound metronidazole can be prescribed as it treats both candida infection and trichomoniasis, as well as bacterial vaginosis. The typical treatment course is 7 days, and symptoms such as itching and odor usually improve within 3 days of starting medication. If symptoms persist, further medical evaluation is recommended.