160 FAMILY ILLNESS
Vaginal discharge
If the discharge contains blood, see p. 158 A thin, clear or whitish discharge from the vagina is normal. This discharge will vary in consistency and quantity with the stage of the menstrual cycle, during sexual arousal, and during pregnancy. An abnormal discharge is usually caused by infection and should be investigated by your doctor.
ACTION
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if you are concerned or if you develop genital irritation. These forms of contraception sometimes cause an increase in normal vaginal secretions.
START
What are the characteristics of your discharge?
Thick and white
Normal appearance but heavier than usual
Greenish yellow
None of the above
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for your discharge from this chart.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR or go to a clinic that specializes in sexually transmitted diseases. You may have a vaginal infection such as bacterial vaginosis.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have thrush, particularly if you also have genital irritation.
• If you have had these symptoms before, try an over-the-counter product recommended by a pharmacist.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if this is the first time you have had these symptoms.
Do you have either of the following?
Fever
Lower abdominal pain
Neither
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR
WITHIN 24 HOURS You could have pelvic inflammatory disease( an infection of the reproductive organs).
Do any of the following apply?
You are taking oral contraceptives
You have an IUD
You are pregnant
None of the above
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you are concerned or if you develop genital irritation. Increased vaginal secretion is normal in pregnancy.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR Cervical erosion, which causes fragile tissue to form on the surface of the cervix, may be the cause of your discharge.