Vaginal secretions from glands in the vagina and vulva vary with the menstrual cycle. The secretions are usually clear or whitish. This type of vaginal discharge is normal.
However, if there is a change in the discharge, such that the discharge becomes watery, cloudy, frothy or thick, it may be a sign of infection.
Common Symptoms of Vaginal Infection:
- Burning pain when passing urine
- Itching or burning pain in the vagina and genital area
- The discharge may vary in color (milky white, yellow or green)
- Discharge may have a sweet, fishy or bad smell
What Causes Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?
A vaginal discharge is likely due to:
1.Candidiasis – a common condition caused by an overgrowth of candida yeast (fungal infection)
2.Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) – a common condition caused by an imbalance in the bacteria that occur naturally in the vagina
3.Sexually transmitted disease/infection (STD/STI)
• Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomonas are the main types of sexually transmitted bacterial infection commonly causing a vaginal discharge
•Ureaplasma and mycoplasma are also bacterial infections that may cause vaginal discharge
Diagnosis & Treatment
Once the type of infection is identified correctly, all infections may be treated and cured with appropriate antibiotics/antifungal medication.
The doctors at Cross Street Medical have the expertise to accurately diagnose and appropriately treat vaginal discharge.
Complications of Untreated STDs/STIs
Complications of untreated STD/STI include:
•Pelvic inflammatory disease and chronic pelvic pain
•Infertility and ectopic pregnancy
•Premature deliveries and low birth weight babies
•Increased risk of contracting other STIs and HIV
Early treatment of an STD/STI is the key to preventing transmission to others; complete cure prevents complications from developing.
Do take note that some STDs/STIs may not have symptoms in the early stages of infection. Symptoms may sometimes take months to develop.
Prevention & Screening
Be responsible. If you are in a new sexual relationship, or have had casual sex, you should screen for STD. Persuade your partners to be screened as well.
Stop the spread of STDs/STIs. Get tested today.
Early screening protects both you and your partner, improves reproductive health, and prevents long-term complications.
Need Help With Vaginal Discharge or STD Screening?
If you notice abnormal discharge, pain, itching, or smell, do not ignore it.
Visit a trusted women’s health clinic in Singapore for safe, discreet and accurate diagnosis.
✅ Fast testing
✅ Proper treatment
✅ Confidential results
✅ Experienced doctors
Book an appointment at Cross Street Medical today.
FAQs About Vaginal Discharge & Infections
Normal discharge is clear or whitish, mild in smell, and changes with the menstrual cycle. It should not cause itching, pain, or burning.
Yellow, green, grey, or thick cottage-cheese-like discharge may indicate yeast infection, BV, or an STD. Bad odor is a strong warning sign.
Yes. Many infections, including trichomonas, gonorrhea and chlamydia, are sexually transmitted. Both partners should be screened and treated to prevent reinfection.
Doctors may perform a physical exam, vaginal swab, urine test, or STD screening to identify the exact cause.
Home remedies often worsen symptoms. Always seek medical care for proper diagnosis and medication.
Yes. Clinics like Cross Street Medical ensure full privacy and professional care.