Side Effect: Vaginal Discharge

What is Vaginal Discharge?

• Vaginal discharge is a common occurrence in women and refers to the fluid that is released from the vagina.
• Vaginal discharge is a fluid secretion that originates from the cervix and vaginal walls and serves to maintain vaginal health by flushing out dead cells and other harmful organisms.

What does Vaginal Discharge look like?

• Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear or white in color and may have an odor or be odorless.
• It may feel different for different women.
• Some women may not even notice it if it does not cause any discomfort or itching, while others may experience discomfort or irritation due to excessive discharge or changes in its composition.
• Changes in the color, consistency, or odor of vaginal discharge may indicate an underlying infection or medical condition and should prompt the person to seek medical attention to evaluate whether treatment is needed.

Who gets Vaginal Discharge?

• Certain cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause vaginal dryness and irritation, which may lead to increases or changes in vaginal discharge.
• Medications that have antiestrogen properties, such as tamoxifen (Nolvadex®), can also increase vaginal discharge.

How to prevent Vaginal Discharge

• It is important to maintain good hygiene and avoid irritants such as douches.
• Patients should also stay hydrated and consider avoiding tight-fitting clothing or underwear that causes discomfort.

How to treat Vaginal Discharge

Treatment for vaginal discharge depends on the underlying cause.

• If the discharge is caused by an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infection, it can be treated with antibiotics or antifungal medication, respectively.
• If the discharge is caused by vaginal dryness or irritation as a medication side effect, local moisturizers and lubricants may help although only for short periods.
• Estrogen replacement can be effective, however; it is contraindicated in some patients with cancer so it is important to talk to the oncologist before beginning any estrogen replacement therapy.