By ULY CLINIC

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Vaginal discharge syndrome (VDS)

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VDS refers to change of colour, odour and/or amount of vaginal secretions, usually accompanied with symptoms and signs. 

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The common signs and symptoms are abnormal vaginal discharge, burning or painful micturition, itchy vulva, increased frequency and urgency of micturition and/or painful coitus.

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A spontaneous complaint of abnormal vaginal discharge is most commonly due to a vaginal infection. It may also be the result of muco-purulent STI-related cervicitis. T. vaginalis, C. albicans and Bacterial Vaginosis are the commonest causes of vaginal infection while Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis cause cervical infection.

 

The clinical detection of cervical infection is difficult because a large proportion of women with gonococcal or chlamydia infections are asymptomatic. 

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The symptom of abnormal vaginal discharge is therefore highly indicative of vaginal infection, but poorly predictive for cervical infection. Due to the high prevalence of gonorrhea and chlamydia, all women presenting with VDS in Tanzania should receive treatment for both vaginal and cervical infections.

 

Delayed or inadequate treatment of VDS may result to endometritis, salpingitis, oophoritis or ectopic pregnancy. 

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Note: gonococcal or chlamydial cervical infection may be asymptomatic

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