It is not unusual for women in their reproductive years to experience vaginal discharge before and after their menstrual period. Such discharges are caused by the activity of the bacteria that are naturally present in the vagina and operate in response to ovulation, intake of birth control pills, and frequency of sexual activity. There is no need to worry if the discharge is thin and clear in color and does not have a bad odor. However, if you experience vaginal discharge that is thick and white in color and smells bad then you may be suffering from a yeast infection. You may also experience irritation in the genital area if this is the case. It is also possible that you may be suffering from a condition called leucorrhea, which is a condition characterized by white discharge from the vagina and causes weakness, anemia and occasional pain in the lumbar region. Hormonal imbalances and metabolic disorders may be the reasons behind this problem.
You should take a few basic precautions and observe if the problem still persists. Always wear underwear that is fits you comfortably and is made of natural fabrics. This helps prevent irritation to the gentle tissues of the genital area and the accumulation of sweat in the folds of the skin, thereby minimizing the chances of bacterial and fungal growth. Also, wash the area every day with a mild antibacterial soap solution to get rid of itchy rashes, if any. Avoid using commercial perfumes and deodorants for a few weeks, as these products often contain chemicals that could cause irritation and inflammation of the soft skin tissue of the region. Besides these tips about personal care, you should also follow a few dietary measures to detoxify your body naturally and reduce the chances of vaginal infection. Eat a small bowl of homemade, unsweetened yoghurt every morning at breakfast. This acts as a natural cleansing agent and treats microbial infections effectively. Another popular home remedy for such problems is to drink a glass of cranberry juice every day. In addition, you should also include lots of fresh fruits and raw vegetables in your diet, as they not only detoxify the body naturally but are also rich sources of antioxidants that help prevent and treat minor infections. Eating lots of proteins in the form of grains and nuts is also recommended. You should avoid processed food containing artificial additives and flavoring agents, as well as refined sugars, breads, peanuts and alcohol. If these measures do not help, you should consult a gynecologist.
answered by G R