18/02/2026
FAB FOUR STDs: VAGINAL DISCHARGE
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Imbalance of va**nal pH, causing overgrowth of a bacteria, Gardnerella va**nalis. While not strictly an STD, s*xual activity can introduce Gardnerella va**nalis into the va**na. The bacteria can also be transmitted to males during s*x. BV causes a thin whitish grey, fishy-smelling discharge. Diagnosis is usually clinical. Treatment is antibiotics. Recent evidence suggests that both partners should be treated. BV is particularly dangerous during pregnancy as it can cause early rupture of the "water bag" and loss of the pregnancy.
Vulvova**nal Candidiasis (Yeast Infection):
Overgrowth of the fungus Candida. While not strictly an STD, it can be passed to a partner during s*xual activity (oral, a**l, or va**nal). It causes a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge, accompanied by intense itching, burning, and pain during in*******se. Diagnosis is usually clinical. Treatment involves antifungal medications.
Trichomoniasis:
Most common STD worldwide. It is caused by the parasite Trichomonas va**nales. It often causes no symptoms, especially in men. When present, symptoms include a greenish-yellow, frothy, foul-smelling va**nal discharge, ge***al itching and pain. There may also be pain on urination. Diagnosis is usually clinical supported by urine and/or va**nal swab tests. Treatment is with antibiotics. Both partners must be treated simultaneously to avoid re-infection.
Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea:
Most serious of the STDs that cause discharge. Caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae which are almost always isolated together. Symptoms include a very thick, yellow or cloudy, foul-smelling discharge with severe pelvic pain and painful urination. It is the most common cause of pelvic inflammatory disease or PID. Early detection and treatment is important to prevent complications like ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Diagnosis is with urine and swab tests. All s*xual partners must be treated with antibiotics.
