Why is the vagina red, swollen and smelly?

Gynecological diseases are a new challenge that many white-collar women have to face nowadays. Gynecological diseases can cause redness and swelling of the vulva, odor of the vulva, abnormal vaginal discharge, vulva itching, pimples on the vulva, moisture in the vulva, etc. These symptoms will affect women's normal life and work. However, there are many reasons that cause women to have odor and redness and swelling in their vagina. Let’s briefly explain them below.

Leucorrhea is a general term for vaginal secretions, which are fluids discharged and exuded from the fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix and vagina. Its main components are exudates from the vaginal epithelium, secretions from the endometrium and cervical glands, secretions from the fallopian tube endometrial epithelium, as well as exfoliated epithelial cells and a small amount of white blood cells and microorganisms. In a normal vagina, there may be a small amount of white, paste-like, odorless or slightly fishy leucorrhea. Normally, the amount of estrogen varies with age and menstrual cycle. In adulthood, during the middle of the menstrual cycle, close to ovulation, estrogen levels reach a peak, at which time the amount of leucorrhea is the largest, and it is clear, transparent and thin, like egg white. Thereafter, estrogen levels gradually decrease, and the leucorrhea becomes turbid, sticky and less in quantity. Before and after menstruation, the amount of leucorrhea may increase slightly. During pregnancy, due to high estrogen levels, leucorrhea often increases. In addition, when sexually excited, the amount of leucorrhea increases significantly and the texture becomes thinner, which serves to lubricate and protect the vagina during sexual intercourse.

However, under pathological conditions, the amount and properties of leucorrhea will change. Women can observe the changes in leucorrhea and seek timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent problems before they occur. The following are common causes of vaginal odor.

1. Trichomonas vaginalis infection

2. Bacterial vaginosis

3. Not paying attention to hygiene

4. Fungal vaginitis

The diseases introduced above can all cause unpleasant odor and redness and swelling in the female genitals. After understanding these reasons, relevant treatment should be carried out. In addition to taking medication, patients also need to improve their living and eating habits. Eat less spicy food, change your underwear frequently every day, and develop the habit of not staying up late, not smoking, and not drinking.