4 Ways to Treat Vaginal Discharge

1. Identify the Cause

A certain amount of vaginal discharge is harmless for most women and cannot be avoided. However, when vaginal discharge is of an abnormal consistency or has a foul smell or atypical color, it usually indicates some type of infection. Before you can treat the infection that causes the abnormal discharge, you first have to identify what type of infection it is. Vaginal yeast infections can often be self-diagnosed if they have occurred before and present with the same symptoms. First-time yeast infections and other types of vaginal infections require a trip to the doctor for proper diagnosis. Your doctor will use a physical examination, urine analysis and vaginal cultures to pinpoint the cause of your vaginal discharge and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

2. Use Antifungal Medications for Yeast Infections

In most cases, you can get rid of a vaginal yeast infection with over-the-counter antifungal medications such as miconazale (sold under the brand name Monistat). These medications come in either suppository or cream form and are typically inserted into the vagina using a plunger applicator similar to a tampon applicator. Depending on the medication, the treatment can last between 1 and 10 days. Some brands also include a cream for external application to treat itchiness and other external symptoms.

Antifungal medication is also available in pill form by prescription. Fluconazole (sold as Diflucan) and itraconazole (sold as Sporanox) are the most common oral medications used to treat vaginal yeast infections. These pills are usually given in a single dose but can be prescribed for several days. Your doctor will determine how long your treatment should last.

3. Use Antibiotics for Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections such as bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis are common causes of vaginal discharge. The only way to get rid of a bacterial infection is with antibiotics. Metronidazole (sold as Flagyl) is a common treatment for both bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis. This antibiotic can be given orally or as a vaginal gel. Depending on the infection, it can be prescrbed as a single dose or as a week-long regimen.

4. Self-Care Strategies

While treating the source of your abnormal vaginal discharge, there are some strategies you can implement that will help make the treatment maximally affective and increase your comfort. Over-the-counter antihistamines and anti-itch creams can help with vaginal discomfort. Take showers rather than baths, and keep your genital area as clean and dry as possible. Using a blow dryer on the low setting can help dry the area. Avoid having sexual intercourse during treatment, as intercourse could be painful and interfere with your recovery.