Leucorrhea is defined as whitish, yellowish, or greenish viscid discharge from the vagina resulting from inflammation or congestion of the mucous membrane. Such discharge may be originates from the vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or most commonly from the cervix. The color of discharge is variable depending on the menstrual cycle. If the flow looks bloody, makes an unpleasant smell or increases a lot, it can be a symptom of infections.
In India, vaginal discharge is one of the commonest symptoms reported by women. Leucorrhea neither causes mortality nor morbidity in susceptible women, though it is accountable to cause a great extent of mental stress, the problem of sexual anxiety and even sometimes fear of failure to conceive. The age range varied from 19 to 47 years. The maximum incidence of vaginal discharge was noted in 61% of women who belong to low socio-economic and 24% belong to high-socio economic.

What are the Causes of Leucorrhea?

It is believed that estrogen imbalance is one of the main causes to create this condition. In some women, the discharge can be a few drops, while in others, it may be continuous. Some of the common causes are given below –
  • Poor hygiene – Unhygienic conditions, especially during days of the menstrual cycle, can lead to leucorrhea.
  • Injury – Any injury or infections in the vagina or womb can cause leucorrhea. The injury and infection may occur due to frequent abortions, excessive indulgence in sex, and during or after childbirth.
  • Infections – Bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections in the vaginal area can also cause this condition. Some parasites like Trichomonas vaginalis, Chlamydia trachomatis can cause infections in women.
  • Diseases – The presence of other diseases in the body can lower immunity and make the body susceptible to infections and subsequent discharge.
  • Intrauterine contraceptive device – The excessive use of IUCD’s sometimes causes irritation and discharge in females.
  • Diseases like Syphilis, gonorrhea, AIDS also show the presence of infectious bacteria.
  • Moist synthetic undergarments and clothes, combined with poor hygiene can also cause infections and vaginal discharge.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Leucorrhea?

The main and most common symptom that is seen in a person with leucorrhea is vaginal discharge. Other symptoms that occasionally accompany this discharge are:
  • Pain in the lower abdomen or legs
  • Irritation accompanied by intense itching in the genital tract
  • Excessive pain during intercourse
  • General fatigue
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Inability to concentrate on work due to being conscious of the discharge
  • Mood disturbance
  • Rashes or sore spots on the genitals
  • Mild constipation
  • The patient even gets black patches beneath the eyes.

What are the Types of Leucorrhea?

There are mainly 2 types of leucorrhea, they are –
  • Physiological leucorrhea – In this condition, there is an excessive discharge or secretion from a normal vagina. This generally occurs in teenage girls when there is a hormonal imbalance, at the time of the ovulation period. In adults, it is seen in the early days of pregnancy and during sexual excitement.
  • Pathological leucorrhea – It is generally caused by malfunction or disease in the female reproductive system. The nature of discharge can be slimy or may contain blood and can have a foul smell. It can be seen in women suffering from cervicitis or vaginitis.