Vaginal discharge is a normal physiological response in women. Typically, it is minimal in volume, milky white or egg-white in consistency, with a slight fishy odor but no discomfort. Regarding the causes of thick discharge, its formation is closely linked to estrogen levels. During the menstrual cycle, fluctuating estrogen secretion causes variations in both the quality and quantity of discharge, leading to its thickening.
Pathological discharge refers to abnormal changes in color, volume, odor, or consistency. The most common manifestations include thickened discharge, discoloration, increased volume, or foul odor. The most frequent causes are:
I. Candidal Vaginitis:Discharge appears yellow or white, often thick and sticky, though occasionally thin. Characteristic textures include cottage cheese-like or curd-like consistency.
2. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), including Endometritis: Increased discharge that is thin, yellow, and accompanied by abdominal pain.
3. Gonorrhea: Discharge resembles yellow pus.
4. Cervical Erosion: Yellow, sticky discharge with no odor.
V. Trichomoniasis: Thin, pus-like discharge; yellow, foamy or rice-water-like; grayish-white, foul-smelling.
VI. Fallopian tube cancer: Watery, persistent discharge due to tumor-induced epithelial leakage and necrotic tissue.