VAGINAL DISCHARGE

The majority of vaginal discharges, especially those associated with odors are due to sexually transmitted diseases (STD), although some odorless vaginal discharge may also be STD in nature. Incidence of STD in the world is high and is increasing. Poorly diagnosed and poorly treated discharge may leads to increased morbidity and sometimes mortality.

Common causes of vaginal discharge, especially the STD type are:

1. Bacterial
   • Gonorrhea
   • Chlamydia
   • Syphilis
   • Gardenella
   • Staphylococcus / Streptococcus
   • Mycoplasma
2. Viral
   • Herpes Simplex II
   • HIV
   • Papilloma
3. Fungus
   • Yeast

Specific appropriate treatment can eradicate the organism in question (except for the virus). Re-infection occurs with re-exposure. Specific culture of the discharge is often mandatory for proper identification of the causative organism. Viral therapy is usually successful but recrudescence and relapse are common.