Symptoms:
A thick whitish vaginal discharge. Related symptoms may include burning and itching of the vulva.

Cause:
Leukorrhea is nonspecific vaginal discharge that contains mucous and white blood cells; sometimes it is tinged with blood. The amount of discharge increases when estrogen levels are heightened. If blood is present, a more serious disorder may be indicated.

It is often a symptom of vaginal infection. Infective causes include candida (candida albicans, also called yeast infection or monilia), trichomonas vaginalis, chlamydia, hemophilus vaginitis, streptococcus, or neisseria gonorrhea. It can also be caused by staphylococcus; this is the bacteria which will cause toxic shock syndrome when vaginal tampons are used incorrectly. Culture growth of bacteria and examination of discharge under microscope is needed for specific diagnosis.

Other causes include a vitamin B complex deficiency, excessive douching, the use of antibiotics or oral contraceptives, or intestinal worms.

Leukorrhea frequently occurs where there is diabetes or pregnancy.

Treatment:
• The infective cause should be determined, and then treated. See articles noted at the bottom of this article.

• Wear white cotton underwear, so air can circulate freely. Keep the area clean and dry.

• To restore natural vaginal flora, douche with 6-8 acidophilus capsules or plain yogurt. Also douche with fresh garlic juice and water.

• Helpful herbs include pau d'arco tea as a natural antibiotic. Drink 3 cups daily.