What Is Normal Discharge? Clear or white Odorless or mild smell No itching, burning, or pain This is part of the vagina’s natural self-cleaning process. When It’s a Sign of Infection?? Seek medical care if discharge is: Foul-smelling fishy Yellow-green or grey Thick and white like “cottage cheese” Associated with itching, burning, pain, or bleeding Sexual partners must be treated in all STIs to prevent reinfection. Avoid self-medication to reduce drug resistance. Risk Factors for STIs: 1. Unprotected sex (no condom use) The most common risk factor Includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex 2. Multiple sexual partners Increases exposure risk, especially with poor knowledge of partner history 3. New or unknown sexual partner One-time encounters with unknown status are high-risk 4. History of a previous STI Past STIs (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis) increase risk of reinfection 5. Sexual partner with an STI Especially if untreated or asymptomatic 6. Men who have sex with men (MSM) • Higher rates of HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and hepatitis B, Cin this group 7. Inconsistent or incorrect condom use 8. Substance use (alcohol or drugs) before sex Impairs judgment, increases risky behaviors 9. Sex work or transactional sex Higher frequency of exposure without proper protection 10. HIV infection or immunocompromised state Higher susceptibility to other STIs and more severe presentations 11. Early sexual debut Longer lifetime exposure increases cumulative risk 12. Lack of STI education or awareness Myths, stigma, and lack of access to healthcare delay diagnosis Prevention Tips (As per CDC) 1. Avoid douching – it disrupts healthy bacteria 2. Use condoms to prevent STIs 3. Keep the vaginal area dry and clean 4. Wear breathable cotton underwear 5. Limit unnecessary antibiotic use 6. Get screened if you’re sexually active, pregnant, or have new partners When to See a Doctor Recurrent or resistant infections During pregnancy If you or your partner has an STI Burning, pelvic pain, or post-coital bleeding Suspected Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Vaginal discharge is a common concern—but don’t ignore it. Correct diagnosis and complete treatment based on IDSA guidelines can prevent complications like: Recurrent infections Infertility Chronic pelvic pain Spread of STIs Your health is important. Don’t wait. Consult your Doctor #STIawareness #IDphysicianTips #BreakTheStigma #SafeSexMatters #WomensHealthIndia