Vaginal discharge
Click on the links below to find out more about symptoms, how and when to test, and further information.
Thrush
Thrush
What is it?
Thrush is a fungal infection. It is not classed as an STI but can be triggered by sex, and sometimes passed on through sex.
Symptoms
- White discharge (like cottage cheese)
- Itching, irritation around the vagina and vulva
- Soreness and stinging during sex and when you pee
- Redness
Men and people with penises may experience irritation and redness to the head of the penis, difficult pulling back the foreskin, a white discharge under the head of the penis and an unpleasant smell
When should I test?
Thrush does not require testing, unless you are having regular episodes of symptoms or self management is not resolving symptoms.How is it tested?
Thrush can be tested from an examination that may require swabs to be obtained to confirm thrush is present. However this is not necessary unless you are having regular episodes of symptoms or self management is not resolving symptoms.
How is it treated?
Thrush is treated with an antifungal medicine which may be a tablet that is inserted into the vagina, an oral tablet or a cream to relieve irritation. Be aware that these treatments can damage condoms and diaphragms. Treatment is available from pharamacies.Where can I test?
If you are having regular episodes of symptoms or self management is not resolving symptoms, you can contact your GP or call our clinic to discuss on 01225 268355.
Where can I read more about Thrush?
Please see our useful links page.Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial Vaginosis
What is it?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by a change in the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina. It is not an STI, but you are more likely to get it if you are sexually active.
Symptoms
Symptoms of BV include:- An unusual smelly vaginal discharge
- A change to the colour and consistency of your discharge - this may be grey and thin/watery
When should I test?
BV does not require testing, unless you are having regular episodes of symptoms or self management is not resolving symptoms.
How is it tested?
BV can be tested from an examination that may require swabs to be obtained to confirm BV is present. However, this is not necessary unless you are having regular episodes of symptoms or self management is not resolving symptoms.
How is it treated?
BV is usually treated with a course of tablet antibiotics. It is common for BV to come back after treatment. To reduce your risk of BV it is recommended to avoid soaps and irritants to the genital area (including vaginal washes and douches), wash with plain water, have showers instead of baths. Vaginal balance products are available from pharmacies. If symptoms persist you may need antibiotics.It's important to seek treatment if you are pregnant as there is a small chance BV can cause complications.
Where can I test?
If you are having regular episodes of symptoms or self management is not resolving symptoms, you can contact your GP or call our clinic to discuss on 01225 268355.
Where can I read more about BV?
Please see our useful links page.Trichomonas Vaginalis
Trichomonas Vaginalis
What is it?
Trichomoniasis is an STI caused by a parasite called trichomonas vaginalis (TV). It is usually spread through unprotected sex, but it can be spread through sharing sex toys.
Symptoms
Half of people with TV have no symptoms. Symptoms can include:- Increased vaginal discharge, which may be thick or thin, green, yellow or frothy.
- Soreness and swelling of the vagina.
- Pain passing urine or when having sex.
Symptoms in men include pain passing urine, discharge from the end of the penis and soreness or swelling of the penis of foreskin.
When should I test?
You can test if you are experiencing the above symptoms.
How is it tested?
TV can be tested from an examination that may require swabs to be obtained to confirm TV is present.
How is it treated?
TV is usually treated with a 7-day course of a tablet antibiotic. It is important that any recent partners are treated too to prevent reinfection.
Where can I test?
You can contact your GP or call our clinic to discuss on 01225 268355.
