Normal vaginal discharge can change with ovulation, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and sexual activity. A new strong smell, yellow-green or grey colour, curd-like texture, itching, burning, pain during sex or lower-abdominal pain may suggest infection or another gynaecological problem.
Causes require different treatments. Repeated self-treatment with washes, antifungals or antibiotics may mask symptoms or disturb the normal vaginal flora. Appropriate examination and testing are safer when symptoms are unusual or recurrent.
TCM assessment may consider the discharge pattern together with menstruation, digestion, fatigue and the person’s constitution, but TCM descriptions should not replace infection testing. Fever, pelvic pain, pregnancy, abnormal bleeding or persistent recurrence requires prompt medical care.
Avoid douching, scented cleansers and repeated self-treatment, which may irritate tissue or disturb normal flora. Breathable clothing may improve comfort, but infections still require cause-specific testing and treatment.
