Patient's question:
I got married last year. Recently, I've been experiencing lower abdominal pain, especially during my period. I'm very worried about it affecting my fertility, and I'm also extremely sensitive to cold and coldness. Could you please explain what it means when the discharge is like cottage cheese?Doctor's answer:
A discharge resembling cottage cheese is a characteristic of candidal vulvovaginitis, but it generally does not flow out and mostly remains within the vagina. It is often accompanied by itching of the external genitalia, leading to the urge to rub the area to relieve the discomfort. This type of candidal vulvovaginitis is commonly caused by infection with Candida. Patients with candidal vulvovaginitis may experience increased discharge, itching and burning sensation in the external genitalia and vagina, pain during urination, and pain during intercourse. The causes of candidal vulvovaginitis include an increase in vaginal glycogen, enhanced acidity, and excessive proliferation of Candida albicans. It is recommended to visit a reputable public hospital for examination. If symptoms are present, seek medical attention promptly for early treatment and a speedy recovery.