[47F] Experiencing vaginal discharge and UTI symptoms

Patient Description

A 47-year-old female is reporting a thick, yellow, malodorous vaginal discharge accompanied by itching, which began two days ago. She is currently being treated for a urinary tract infection with Macrobid. The patient has also been experiencing nausea but no lightheadedness or fainting. She has a known allergy to Cipro. Her medical history includes postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, diagnosed ten years ago. Current medications include Pristiq (25 mg daily), Klonopin (0.75 mg twice daily), Albuterol, Flovent, and Lansoprazole. No relief measures for the discharge have been noted, and there have been no changes in the discharge's characteristics since onset.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the most likely cause of your symptoms is:

  • Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This is a common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age. It happens when there is an imbalance in the bacteria normally found in the vagina. Symptoms can include a thin white or gray vaginal discharge, pain, itching, and a strong, foul-smelling discharge. It's also possible that the antibiotic you're taking for your UTI has disrupted the normal balance of bacteria in your vagina, leading to BV.
    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.

Other possibilities include:

  • Yeast Infection: This is a common infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina. Symptoms can include itching, burning, and a thick, white discharge. However, yeast infections usually don't cause a foul smell.

    • Treatment typically involves antifungal medication, which can be prescribed by a doctor or bought over-the-counter.
  • Trichomoniasis: This is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. Symptoms can include itching, burning, and a yellow-green, frothy discharge. However, most people with trichomoniasis don't have symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your doctor or a gynecologist. They can perform tests to confirm the cause of your symptoms and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
  2. In the meantime, avoid sexual intercourse as this can worsen your symptoms and potentially spread any infection to your partner.
  3. Avoid douching or using any scented products in your vaginal area. These can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria and make your symptoms worse.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms worsen or don't improve after a few days.
  • You develop severe lower abdominal pain.
  • You have a fever or chills.
  • You have new or worsening nausea or vomiting.

Please remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?

Common symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include a thin white or gray vaginal discharge, a strong fishy odor, itching, and sometimes burning during urination.


Can antibiotics for a urinary tract infection cause vaginal infections?

Yes, antibiotics can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina, potentially leading to infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.


What are the differences between bacterial vaginosis and a yeast infection?

Bacterial vaginosis typically causes a thin, gray discharge with a strong odor, while a yeast infection usually results in a thick, white discharge without a strong smell. BV is caused by an imbalance of bacteria, whereas yeast infections are due to an overgrowth of yeast.


How can I prevent vaginal infections while taking antibiotics?

To prevent vaginal infections while taking antibiotics, consider taking probiotics, avoid douching, wear breathable cotton underwear, and maintain good hygiene. It's also helpful to avoid scented products in the vaginal area.


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