Vaginal Discharge and 'Toilet Infection'
Some vaginal discharge is normal and healthy, and it changes through the menstrual cycle. Discharge that changes colour, smell or amount, or comes with itching or soreness, usually has one of three causes: thrush (a yeast infection), bacterial vaginosis (an imbalance of the normal bacteria), or a sexually transmitted infection such as trichomonas, chlamydia or gonorrhoea. In Nigeria all of these are often called 'toilet infection', but they are not caught from toilet seats and they need different treatments, which is why repeated self-treatment from the chemist so often fails.
Find a Gynaecology SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Thick, white, curd-like discharge with itching (typical of thrush)
- Thin, grey-white discharge with a fishy smell, often worse after sex (typical of bacterial vaginosis)
- Yellow-green, frothy or offensive discharge
- Itching, burning or soreness of the vulva
- Pain during sex or when passing urine
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Lower abdominal pain or fever (a possible pelvic infection)
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if this is the first time you have had these symptoms, if they keep coming back, if you are pregnant, or if you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection. See a doctor promptly for lower abdominal pain, fever, bleeding after sex or between periods, or any bloodstained discharge after menopause. A vaginal swab, which can often be self-taken, gives the diagnosis.
Treatment options
- Vaginal swab testing to identify the cause
- Antifungal pessaries, creams or tablets for thrush
- Antibiotics such as metronidazole for bacterial vaginosis or trichomonas
- Treatment of partners for sexually transmitted infections
- Avoiding douching, vaginal steaming and perfumed washes, which upset the normal bacteria
- Checking for diabetes when thrush keeps returning
Common Questions
Can I get 'toilet infection' from a public toilet?
It is very unlikely. Thrush and bacterial vaginosis come from changes in the body's own organisms, and sexually transmitted infections are passed through sexual contact, not toilet seats. The name can delay the right test and treatment.
Should I douche or steam to keep the vagina clean?
No. The vagina cleans itself. Douching, steaming and antiseptic or perfumed washes kill the protective bacteria and make bacterial vaginosis and thrush more likely. Washing the outside with water is enough.
Why does my infection keep coming back after treatment?
Common reasons are treating the wrong cause, a partner who also needs treatment, diabetes, frequent antibiotics, or douching. A swab test before the next treatment usually finds the answer.
Does my partner need treatment too?
For trichomonas, chlamydia and gonorrhoea, yes, or you will be reinfected. For thrush and bacterial vaginosis, partners usually do not need treatment unless they have symptoms.
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