Differential Diagnosis for White Vaginal Discharge with Slight Odor and Painful Intercourse
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This condition is characterized by an imbalance in the normal vaginal flora, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria. It often presents with a white, thin, and homogeneous vaginal discharge with a fishy odor, although the odor can be slight. Painful intercourse (dyspareunia) can also occur due to the inflammation and irritation caused by BV.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vaginal Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): Typically presents with a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge and can cause itching, burning, and painful intercourse. The odor is usually minimal or absent.
- Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It can lead to a frothy, greenish-yellow vaginal discharge with a strong odor, but presentations can vary. Painful intercourse and irritation are common.
- Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix, often due to infection, which can cause abnormal vaginal discharge and painful intercourse.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A serious infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause severe consequences if not treated promptly, including infertility and chronic pelvic pain. Symptoms can include abnormal vaginal discharge, painful intercourse, and lower abdominal pain.
- Cervical Cancer: Although less common, abnormal vaginal discharge and painful intercourse can be symptoms of cervical cancer. Regular screening is crucial for early detection.
- Gonorrhea and Chlamydia: These sexually transmitted infections can cause abnormal discharge and painful intercourse. If left untreated, they can lead to serious complications like PID.
Rare Diagnoses
- Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (DIV): A rare condition characterized by a purulent vaginal discharge and significant inflammation of the vaginal walls, which can cause painful intercourse.
- Vaginal Cancer: A rare type of cancer that can cause abnormal vaginal discharge, among other symptoms. It is more common in older women.
- Lichen Sclerosus: A rare skin condition that can affect the vulva, causing itching, pain, and sometimes abnormal discharge. It can lead to painful intercourse due to the thinning and scarring of the vulvar skin.