Patient's question:
Hello! In recent months, I have noticed that for a few days before my period, my white discharge has been yellow,, and my external genitalia feel a bit itchy. Is it possible that I have trichomoniasis?Do women who have had sexual activity and those who have not both get this disease? How should it be treated?
Doctor's answer:
Hello: This is candidal vulvovaginitis. The most common symptom of candidal vulvovaginitis is external genital itching, with a significant increase in vaginal discharge. The itching symptoms of patients can vary in intensity and frequency. The itching caused by candidal vulvovaginitis is generally more pronounced than that caused by trichomoniasis. Severe itching can make patients restless and unable to sleep or eat properly. Patients may also experience a burning sensation in the vagina, which is particularly noticeable during urination. In more severe cases, symptoms such as frequent urination, painful urination, and dyspareunia may occur. An increased amount of vaginal discharge is another main symptom of this condition. The discharge is usually viscous and may be white or yellow, or sometimes thin. The typical discharge of candidal vulvovaginitis is curd-like or cottage cheese-like. During gynecological examination, depending on the severity of the condition, the labia minora and vaginal mucosa may show varying degrees of congestion and edema of the labia minora. The vagina may contain a large amount of viscous discharge, or the vaginal mucosa may be covered with a white membrane. If the membrane is wiped away, the exposed mucosa may appear red, swollen, eroded, or have superficial ulcers.