Vaginal discharge

Abstract

Vaginal discharge is a common presenting complaint in women across all age groups, most commonly in reproductive age. A thorough history, examination and investigations are needed to arrive at a diagnosis and formulate management plan. Sexual history should be taken in a sensitive manner and tests should be tailored to those at high risk. This article focuses on the three main causes of vaginal discharge in reproductive age women namely, bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis and Trichomonas vaginalis. An overview of vaginal discharge management in all age groups is described and also the rarer condition of desquamated inflammatory vaginitis.