Patient's question:
My mother has been menopausal for half a year. Since the menopause, she has had increased white discharge, which is white and very thick. It also has a slight odor. Please ask the expert. What is going on?Doctor's answer:
Vaginitis refers to vaginal inflammation. The healthy vagina of a normal woman has natural defense functions against pathogens due to its anatomical and tissue characteristics. These include the closure of the vaginal orifice, the close apposition of the anterior and posterior vaginal walls, the proliferation of vaginal epithelial cells under the influence of estrogen, and the keratinization of surface cells. Additionally, the vaginal pH is maintained in balance, which suppresses the proliferation of pathogens adapted to alkaline conditions. The cervical mucus is alkaline. When the natural defense functions of the vagina are compromised, pathogens can easily invade, leading to vaginal inflammation.