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Forum Name: Gynecology

Question: Discharge/Odor/Medication Question

Emma1 - Fri Jan 26, 2007 4:47 am

Hello. I'm a 31 year old female and went to the doctor back on June 30, 2004 for a Pap smear. I informed the gynecologist at that appointment that I was having a yellow/white discharge constantly with a strong odor. I had no burning or Itching, it just was something that I had never had before. He didn't run any tests, he just prescribed MetroGel-Vaginal for me. My Pap smear came back fine. I was right in the process of moving out of state and packed it up to take with me. After I moved, I could not find the medication. Unpacking a box that I found in our garage in an empty box, I found my medication. It has been almost two years now and the problem has never really gone away. I have found out several things about my ex-boyfriend's past that makes me very afraid that I could have an STD. I have not heard that he has one, just that he seems to have been quite the "playboy". My problem seems to be worse during certain times of the month but never really goes away. I always have a discharge and an odor. I know I need to go back to the Gynecologist but I'm beyond scared of learning what may be wrong with me. My question is, do you know what this may be? Also, on the label on the prescription it says to discard after 6-30-05 but the box has a date printed on it of 02/07. Would it hurt me to go ahead and try taking it? Any advice would be appreciated. I've been scared to death for two years now and could really use some advice. I know I should have already gone to see someone since the problem hasn't gone away but I'm terrified to do it! Thanks for any help.

Dr. Leigh Anderson - Fri Jan 26, 2007 5:37 am

Hi Emma1, It does appear that you could have an infection called Trichomoniasis and is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) that affects both women and men, although symptoms are more common in women. Most men with trichomoniasis do not have signs or symptoms; however, some men may temporarily have an irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or slight burning after urination or ejaculation. And since he is your Ex probably will not admit that he had/showed any symptoms of the infection. Some women have signs or symptoms of infection which include a frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with a strong odor. The infection also may cause discomfort during intercourse and urination, as well as irritation and Itching of the female genital area. In rare cases, lower Abdominal pain can occur. The genital inflammation caused by trichomoniasis can increase a woman's susceptibility to HIV infection if she is exposed to the virus. Having trichomoniasis may increase the chance that an HIV-infected woman passes HIV to her sex partner(s). For both men and women, a health care provider must perform a physical examination and laboratory test to diagnose trichomoniasis. The parasite is harder to detect in men than in women. In women, a pelvic examination can reveal small red ulcerations (sores) on the vaginal wall or cervix. A Pap smear will not detect this STD. Trichomoniasis can usually be cured with the prescription drug, metronidazole, given by mouth in a single dose. The symptoms of trichomoniasis in infected men may disappear within a few weeks without treatment. However, an infected man, even a man who has never had symptoms or whose symptoms have stopped, can continue to infect or re-infect a female partner until he has been treated. Therefore, both partners should be treated at the same time to eliminate the parasite. Persons being treated for trichomoniasis should avoid sex until they and their sex partners complete treatment and have no symptoms. Metronidazole can be used by pregnant women. Having trichomoniasis once does not protect a person from getting it again. Following successful treatment, people can still be susceptible to re-infection. . The genital inflammation caused by trichomoniasis can increase a woman's susceptibility to HIV infection if she is exposed to the virus. Having trichomoniasis may increase the chance that an HIV-infected woman passes HIV to her sex partner(s). Trichomoniasis is a common sexually . You need to seek medical advice immediately, as with any diease that goes untreated for a long time can turn into major reproductive problems latter on. Keep In Touch and let me know if I can help you with any more concerns. Dr. Anderson

Emma1 - Fri Jan 26, 2007 6:10 pm

Thank you so much Dr. Anderson for the insight. I'll be making the appointment and keep you posted on what I find out. I'm praying it's nothing more than that. Thanks again!

Dr. Leigh Anderson - Fri Jan 26, 2007 7:44 pm

Hi Emma, You a very welcomed, and I would appreciate your updates. Take Care D. Anderson

Emma1 - Sat Jan 27, 2007 5:06 am

Well l've been reading up on it and most of the symptoms listed in all the websites I've looked up are symptoms I've had. I know it sounds crazy but I'm relieved to finally have some idea of what the problem may be. I'll be scheduling after I get my next paycheck so I'll keep you posted. I can't thank you enough for taking time out of your busy day to respond to my post. Thanks to you I think I can finally go to the doctor! :)

Dr. Leigh Anderson - Sat Jan 27, 2007 5:18 pm

Hi Emma, Keep me updated, and Good Luck. Take Care

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