Health & Wellness

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Sexual arousal triggers several physical responses in the body. Arousal increases blood flow in the genitals. As a result, the blood vessels enlarge, which pushes fluid to the surface of the vaginal walls.

Arousal fluid is clear and watery with a slippery texture. This fluid helps lubricate the vagina during sex.

Other signs of female arousal include:

• increased heart rate and breathing
• flushing of the face, neck, and chest
• swelling of the breasts
• erect nipples

Cervical fluid is a gel-like liquid that contains proteins, carbohydrates, and amino acids. The texture and amount of cervical fluid both change throughout a female's menstrual cycle.

For example, after menstruation, cervical fluid has a thick, mucus-like texture. It can be cloudy, white, or yellow.

Estrogen levels increase closer to ovulation. This causes the cervical fluid to become clear and slippery, similar to that of raw egg whites.

Cervical fluid discharge increases during the days leading up to ovulation and decreases after ovulation. Females may have no discharge for a few days after their period.

Hormonal imbalances related to stress, diet, or underlying medical conditions can cause heavier vaginal discharge.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), for example, refers to a set of symptoms that occur as a result of hormonal imbalances. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), PCOS affects up to 5 million females in the United States.

Those with PCOS have higher levels of male hormones called androgens. Increased androgen levels can:

• change the amount or texture of cervical fluid
• cause irregular periods
• prevent ovulation

Not everyone with PCOS will have increased vaginal discharge. Paying attention to other PCOS symptoms may help someone identify and seek treatment for the condition faster.

Some other symptoms of PCOS to look out for include:

• fewer than eight periods in 1 year, or periods that occur every roughly 21 days
• excess facial and body hair
• thinning hair or hair loss
• acne on the face and body
• weight gain
• darkening of the skin on the neck, groin, or breasts
• skin tags on the armpits or neck

Hormonal birth control, such as birth control pills and intrauterine devices, can also cause increased vaginal discharge, especially during the first few months of use.

Excess vaginal discharge and other symptoms, such as spotting and cramping, usually resolve once the body adjusts to the hormonal birth control.

Vaginitis refers to inflammation of the vagina, which can occur from an infection or irritation due to factors such as douches, lubricants, and ill-fitting clothing.

Vaginitis can cause thick vaginal discharge that may be white, gray, yellow, or green.

Other symptoms of vaginitis include:

• foul vaginal odor
• an itching or burning sensation in the genital area
• redness or inflammation of the vagina
• pain or discomfort when urinating
• pain during sexual intercourse

Bacterial vaginosis is a condition that results from an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. This vaginal infection is the most common among females aged 15–44 years.

The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis remains unclear. Females can develop bacterial vaginosis after sexual intercourse. However, this condition is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

According to the Office on Women's Health, those who have bacterial vaginosis may notice a milky or gray-colored vaginal discharge. Some also report a strong, fishy vaginal odor, especially after sexual intercourse.

Bacterial vaginosis can also cause:

• discomfort when urinating
• painful burning or itching in the vagina
• irritation of the skin around the vagina

Vaginal yeast infections result from an overgrowth of the Candida fungus. Females of all ages can develop a vaginal yeast infection, and nearly 70% will have a yeast infection at some point in their lives.

The most common symptom of a vaginal yeast infection is an intense itching in the vagina and vulva.

Vaginal yeast infections can also cause an odorless vaginal discharge that looks similar to cottage cheese.

Vaginal yeast infections are treatable at home using over-the-counter antifungal ointments. Symptoms should improve within a few days. However, severe infections can last longer and may require medical treatment.

Trichomoniasis is an STI caused by a parasite. Females can develop trichomoniasis after having sex with someone who has the parasite.

Although most people who have trichomoniasis do not experience symptoms, some may have an itching or burning sensation in the genital area.

Trichomoniasis infections can also cause excess vaginal discharge that has a foul or fishy odor and a white, yellow, or green color. It may also be thinner than usual.

Healthy vaginal discharge varies from person to person. It also changes throughout their menstrual cycle.

In general, healthy vaginal discharge can appear thin and watery or thick and cloudy. Clear, white, or off-white vaginal discharge is also perfectly normal.

Some females may have brown, red, or black vaginal discharge at the end of their menstrual periods if their vaginal discharge still contains blood from the uterus.

Natural hormonal changes during ovulation can cause an increase in vaginal discharge, which should return to normal after ovulation.

It is not always necessary to see a doctor about excessive vaginal discharge. However, a female may want to consider seeing their doctor if their vaginal discharge has an abnormal appearance.

Yellow, green, gray, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge could indicate an infection. Other reasons to see a doctor include:

• itching or burning near the genitals
• discomfort or pain when urinating
• discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse

Treating excess vaginal discharge depends on the underlying cause.

People can reduce symptoms of vaginitis by avoiding the source of irritation. Doctors can treat bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections using antibiotics or antifungals.

Doctors can also treat trichomoniasis using antibiotics. The CDC recommend that females wait 7–10 days after receiving treatment before having sex.

Treatment for PCOS varies depending on the individual. A doctor may recommend a combination of lifestyle changes and medications to help people manage their symptoms and regulate their hormone levels.

Maintaining a healthy body weight and eating a varied diet low in added sugars may also help improve some symptoms of PCOS. Birth control pills that contain estrogen or progestin can help balance out excess levels of androgens.

Even healthy vaginal discharge can cause discomfort at times. Here are some tips for managing heavy vaginal discharge:

• Wear panty liners. However, be sure not to let them become too moist, as this can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and vaginitis.
• Choose breathable underwear made from natural fibers such as cotton.
• Avoid wearing tight pants.
• Avoid using hygiene products that contain added fragrances, coloring agents, or other harsh chemicals.
• Keep the genital area clean and dry.
• Wipe from the front to the back when using the bathroom.

Excess vaginal discharge can occur as a result of arousal, ovulation, or infections. Normal vaginal discharge ranges in color from clear or milky to white.

The consistency of vaginal discharge also varies from thin and watery to thick and sticky. Generally, healthy vaginal discharge should be relatively odorless.

A female can speak with a healthcare professional if they notice any symptoms of an infection. Some symptoms to look out for include:

• yellow, green, or gray vaginal discharge
• foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• discharge that looks similar to cottage cheese
• itching or burning in or near the genitals

Doctors can easily treat most vaginal infections using antimicrobial medications. Depending on the severity of the infection, people may see their symptoms improving within a few days to weeks.

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People who have overly large breasts that cause neck, shoulder, or back pain may benefit from breast reduction surgery.

Large breasts can make exercising and other activities difficult. Having large breasts can also have negative psychological effects, as some individuals feel self-conscious about their breast size.

Doctors may recommend breast reduction surgery for males who have gynecomastia, which is a medical condition in which the breast tissue swells due to high levels of estrogen.

Breast reduction surgery can help improve people's physical and psychological well-being.

A doctor will first determine whether someone is a candidate for the surgery. This evaluation can include:

• a routine breast examination
• a mammogram
• the reviewal of a person's medical history
• urine, blood, and other lab tests

A breast reduction usually takes place under general anesthesia. Most people go home straight after surgery, but some do spend 1–2 nights in the hospital.

Before surgery, a person may need to stop taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, as these can increase bleeding.

Doctors also encourage people who smoke to quit several weeks before the procedure. Smoking will increase the risk of nipple or areolar damage, tissue necrosis, and other complications. Therefore, it is essential that people discuss any tobacco product use, including vaping, with the doctor.

The plastic surgeon performing the procedure will use a marker to draw guidelines for the incisions. The size of the breasts, the position of the nipples, and the person's preferences will determine the exact incision pattern.

The wise pattern, or anchor pattern, is the most common skin removal technique for breast reduction surgery, according to the authors of one 2019 article.

A surgeon starts by making an incision around the areola. Then, they continue the incision beneath the breast, at which point they may remove excess skin from the sides of the breast.

After making the incisions, the surgeon will remove excess breast tissue, reshape the remaining tissue, and reposition the nipple and areola. The surgeon will close the remaining skin with sutures and surgical tape.

If the breasts are particularly large, it may be necessary to remove the nipples and areolas from the body and then place them back on the breasts in a procedure called a free nipple graft. The nipples will regrow into the new position, but they will usually be permanently numb afterward.

After the procedure, the surgeon or a nurse will wrap the breasts in gauze bandages. The insertion of small tubes into the breasts is sometimes necessary to drain excess fluid and reduce swelling after the operation. People should avoid showering until a nurse removes these drainage tubes.

The goal of male breast reduction surgery is to remove any excess fatty or glandular tissue to achieve a flatter, firmer-looking chest.

Extra breast tissue in males is called gynecomastia.

Males undergoing breast reduction surgery will receive a local or general anesthetic before the procedure. The procedure can involve liposuction, excision, or a combination of the two.

Liposuction can correct gynecomastia that is due to excess fatty tissue. The surgeon will make micro-incisions along the sides of the breast and insert a thin tube called a cannula. The surgeon will use the cannula to loosen and remove excess fatty tissue.

Gynecomastia can also cause excess skin and glandular breast tissue. In this case, a surgeon will use excision techniques to cut off this tissue.

After reducing the size of the breast, the surgeon will reposition the areola and nipple, if necessary, and close the incisions with sutures.

Most people can go home a few hours after the surgery, as long as they do not experience any complications.

Before they leave the hospital or clinic, they will receive specific postoperative instructions that cover what types of oral and topical medications can help reduce pain and scarring and prevent infections.

People will need plenty of rest while their breasts heal. They should avoid any movements that might stretch the chest muscles or tear the sutures.

People may have difficulty lifting their arms during the first couple of weeks, so they may want to ask a close family member or friend to help them during this time.

They should avoid heavy lifting for several weeks or until a doctor removes their sutures.

People may experience minor complications after breast reduction surgery, such as:

• open wounds or slow healing of the incisions
• excess fluid in the breast tissue
• cellulitis, or infection of the connective tissue
• loss of sensation in the nipples or breasts
• asymmetric appearance of the breasts or nipples
• prominent or thickened scars
• allergic reactions to anesthesia or other medications

Smoking can increase the risk of complications and delay the healing process. People who have obesity may also have a higher risk of postoperative complications.

It is important to note that the breasts may have very small asymmetries after surgery. Most breasts are not exactly the same size or shape to begin with, and the surgeons do try to remove more tissue from the bigger side. However, after the procedure and months after the completion of the healing process, there may be small differences between the breasts.

Also, breast reduction surgery can affect a person's ability to breastfeed.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast reduction procedures cost, on average, approximately $5,680. People will also need to pay for the cost of consultations and follow-up appointments.

Some insurance companies may partially or completely cover the cost of breast reduction surgery if a person needs this procedure to relieve chronic pain or other medical problems.

People who are thinking about having breast reduction surgery may wish to contact their insurance company to inquire about coverage.

Breast reduction surgery is a relatively safe and effective medical procedure that reduces the overall size of a person's breasts.

A plastic surgeon will remove excess fat, breast tissue, and skin through incisions underneath the breasts. They may also reposition the nipple and areola.

Breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure with minimal risks. Rare complications include infection, scarring, and loss of sensation in the nipples or breasts.

People considering breast reduction surgery can make an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon. At the appointment, the surgeon will evaluate a person's medical history and current health status to determine whether breast reduction surgery is a suitable option.

There is little evidence that home remedies can ease fibroid pain. However, there are a few methods that people can try.

These include:

• taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• using heating pads
• practicing yoga or stretching
• doing gentle exercise
• eating a healthful diet

Some people may be interested in trying herbal remedies to shrink the fibroids and ease the pain. A 2013 Cochrane review analyzed previous research on the use of common herbal remedies — including Tripterygium wilfordii and Guizhi Fuling — to treat fibroids and their symptoms.

The researchers concluded that the quality of the data in the reviewed studies was insufficient to support the use of these herbal remedies.

Making lifestyle changes may be a more effective way for people to ease their fibroid pain.

Learn more about natural treatments and dietary changes for fibroids here.

A person can take medication to help ease fibroid pain. However, medication will not cure fibroids, and a person may require surgery later on.

These types of drugs may help ease fibroid symptoms:

• Birth control pills: These can help reduce period pain. They may also make periods lighter, but they will not shrink fibroids.
• A hormonal intrauterine device (IUD): This device releases progestin, which can help with painful, heavy periods but will not shrink fibroids.
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists: These drugs counteract the effect of the hormones that regulate a person's period. They can stop monthly bleeding and may help shrink fibroids.

The GnRH agonists may cause side effects, so doctors recommend that people take these for no longer than 6 months. After a person stops taking these drugs, the fibroids typically grow back.

When fibroids cause pain, and medication does not work, a person may consider surgery. Doctors may recommend one of the following surgical procedures:

• Myomectomy: A myomectomy is the removal of the fibroids from the uterus. This procedure does not remove the uterus, so it is still possible for the person to get pregnant afterward.
• Ablation: This procedure involves using heat to destroy the fibroids. It will not remove the fibroids altogether, but they may shrink.
• Laparoscopic power morcellation: For this procedure, a surgeon will make a tiny incision and insert a surgical instrument through it to break up fibroids. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) caution that this treatment carries significant risks.
• Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy removes the uterus. Sometimes, the surgeon will also remove the ovaries.

Learn more about the types of surgery for fibroids here.

In addition to pain, some people experience the following symptoms:

• very heavy bleeding
• anemia from heavy periods
• frequent bowel movements or urination
• swelling or pressure in the stomach

Many people find out that they have fibroids during a routine pelvic exam. A doctor can often feel the fibroids in the uterus during the exam.

A doctor can also detect fibroids by performing imaging tests, such as:

A doctor may sometimes recommend a hysterosalpingogram, which uses dye to see the uterus during an X-ray, or a sonohysterogram, which uses a saline solution to enhance the view of the uterus during an ultrasound.

Doctors do not fully understand what causes fibroids, but some possible causes and risk factors include:

• Genetics: Fibroids may run in families, and certain genetic mutations increase the risk of these growths.
• Hormones: Estrogen, progesterone, and growth hormones may increase the risk. Therefore, people who take hormonal birth control or have growth hormone injections may be more likely to develop fibroids.
• Nutritional imbalances: Some research suggests that there is an association between vitamin D deficiency and the development of fibroids.
• Race and ethnicity: African American women appear to be more likely than white women to develop fibroids.
• Obesity: People who have overweight or obesity are two to three times more likely to develop fibroids than those with a moderate body weight.

It is not possible for a doctor to diagnose fibroids based on a person's symptoms alone.

Many other conditions, including infections, pregnancy loss, and cancer, may share some of the symptoms of fibroids, so it is important to see a doctor for unusual bleeding or pelvic pain.

A person who already knows that they have fibroids should see a doctor if they experience:

• sudden worsening of symptoms
• heavy bleeding
• pressure or swelling in the abdomen
• returning fibroid symptoms after fibroid surgery

Many people develop uterine fibroids without being aware of them. However, some individuals may experience severe pain and need surgery or other treatments.

A person experiencing fibroid pain can stretch, use heat, or take OTC medications, but if the pain does not improve, they should see a doctor.

A doctor can guide treatment decisions by helping a person weigh up the risks and benefits of various symptom management options.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pregnant women are more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications from the flu because their lungs, heart, and immune system change during pregnancy.

Some pregnant women who get the flu may also develop bronchitis, which may turn into pneumonia.

However, there are more serious complications associated with the flu during pregnancy although these are rare:

Avoiding the flu could increase the chances of completing a healthy pregnancy. According to a 2016 study, having the flu shot during pregnancy reduced the risk of stillbirth by 51% compared with those who did not get vaccinated.

The flu during pregnancy can cause harm to the fetus. The baby may be born prematurely or have a low birth weight.

According to the CDC, the flu shot has a long safety record indicating that it is safe to give to those who are pregnant.

However, pregnant women should not use the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), which comes in the form of a nasal spray. This is because it contains live microorganisms of the virus, which can cross the placenta and lead to a viral infection in the fetus.

However, the CDC note that the potential damage to the fetus is "theoretical," but healthcare providers do not administer the LAIV vaccine as a precaution.

A flu shot may help decrease the chances of a person contracting the flu. It may also help reduce the need to go to the hospital due to potential complications.

According to a 2018 study, a pregnant woman who gets the flu shot is 40% less likely to be hospitalized if they catch the flu.

The effects of the flu shot can also pass on to the baby once born, giving the baby a few months of added protection from the flu.

If a pregnant woman has pre-existing medical conditions, they do not need to get written consent of permission from a doctor to obtain the flu shot.

Learn more about the safety of the flu shot here.

The flu has several identified symptoms that are the same for nearly everyone, which include:

Antiviral medications can help relieve symptoms of flu in pregnant women, as well as reduce the potential for complications.

They work best when a person takes them within 48 hours after symptoms appear.

Pregnant women should avoid taking medicines such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen and should talk to their healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications.

However, if it is absolutely necessary, pregnant women may take acetaminophen in the smallest effective amounts for the shortest possible time.

Otherwise, the best treatment typically involves rest and getting enough fluids.

A pregnant woman should see a doctor as soon as possible if they think they have caught the flu.

In most cases, a healthcare provider will start the woman on an antiviral medication as soon as possible.

A woman should seek emergency medical attention if they are pregnant and experience any of the following symptoms:

• trouble breathing
• confusion
• dizziness
• vaginal bleeding
• a high fever
• chest pain or pressure
• severe vomiting
• a decrease in fetal movement
• seizures

If a pregnant woman is worried at any time, they should contact their healthcare provider.

The most effective prevention method is getting the flu shot. A woman should talk to their doctor about getting a flu shot as soon as it is available for the season.

However, there are several steps that a woman can take to help prevent contracting the flu, which includes:

• frequently washing hands with warm water and soap
• getting adequate rest
• avoiding close contact with sick family or friends
• reducing stress
• exercising regularly
• eating a healthful diet

The flu can be much more severe during pregnancy.

The best option is to get the flu shot. A flu shot will not affect the health of the mother or fetus.

If the woman gets the flu, they should visit their doctor as soon as possible. A doctor might prescribe antiviral medications. Otherwise, a person should rest and consume plenty of fluids.

Medical research has identified around 150 symptoms that people may experience in the days leading up to a period. Food cravings, increased hunger, water retention, and swelling are premenstrual symptoms that may make a person feel like they are gaining weight.

Appetite changes

People may notice changes in their appetite throughout their menstrual cycle. For some, these changes may lead to concerns over weight gain.

Changes in appetite tend to occur at distinct stages of the menstrual cycle called the follicular phase and the luteal phase.

• The follicular phase. This phase begins when a person bleeds and ends before they ovulate. Estrogen is the dominant hormone during this phase. Since estrogen suppresses appetite, a person may find that they eat less during this phase.
• The luteal phase. This phase begins after ovulation and lasts up to the first day of the next period. During the luteal phase, progesterone is the dominant hormone. Since progesterone stimulates appetite, a person may find that they eat more during this phase.

Previous studies have shown that females eat more calories during the luteal phase compared with the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle.

A 2016 study found that females tend to eat more protein during the luteal phase of menstruation. Females also report increased food cravings, particularly for sweets, chocolate, and salty foods.

Not all studies show that food cravings result in an increased number of calories consumed and an increase in weight. However, people who do consume more calories as a result of their cravings may experience some weight gain.

Water retention and swelling

People may experience increased water and salt retention around the time of their period. This is due to an increase in the hormone progesterone. Progesterone activates the hormone aldosterone, which causes the kidneys to retain water and salt.

Water retention can lead to bloating and swelling, particularly in the abdomen, arms, and legs. This can give the appearance of weight gain. It may also make a person's clothes feel tighter.

However, water retention does not always signify weight gain. A 2014 study investigated water retention in females who complained of swelling during their period.

Circumference measurements taken throughout the study indicated that the participants did have significant swelling in the following areas:

• face
• breasts
• abdomen
• upper and lower limbs
• pubic areas

However, there were no significant changes in weight throughout the participant's cycles.

Many people experience both physical and psychological symptoms during a period. Symptoms may include:

People may feel additional symptoms in the days leading up to a period. Symptoms may include:

• thirst and appetite changes
• breast tenderness
• bloating
• headache
• swelling of the hands or feet

The type, severity, and duration of symptoms will vary from person to person. Additionally, some people may experience a combination of symptoms, while others may not experience any at all.

Premenstrual symptoms tend to start a few days before bleeding, or menstruation, and stop once menstruation occurs.

Medical providers can diagnose people with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) if:

• the person has a pattern of symptoms 5 days before their period for at least three cycles in a row
• the symptoms end within 4 days after their period starts
• the symptoms interfere with their normal activities

The following are some examples of how to prevent weight gain during a period.

Diet

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend the following eating habits to help lessen the effects of PMS:

• eating complex carbohydrates to reduce mood symptoms and food cravings
• eating calcium rich foods, including yogurt and leafy green vegetables
• reducing fat, salt, and sugar intake
• avoiding or limiting caffeine and alcoholic beverages
• keeping blood sugar levels stable by eating smaller meals more often

Supplements

A doctor may also recommend taking a magnesium supplement. This can help to alleviate the following symptoms of PMS:

• bloating
• breast tenderness
• mood disturbances

Medication

Sometimes, doctors may prescribe diuretics to people who complain of water retention during their period. Diuretics help to reduce the amount of water that the body stores.

Researchers have found that certain oral contraceptives can also help reduce water retention. In a 2007 study, females who took 3 milligrams (mg) of drospirenone and 30 micrograms (mcg) of ethinyl estradiol had reduced water retention. Nonetheless, their body weight remained unchanged.

Doctors often use combined oral contraceptives to treat the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

Hormonal fluctuations that occur throughout the menstrual cycle can affect a person's appetite. In particular, people may experience food cravings in the days leading up to a period.

Females may also experience water retention and bloating, which can give the appearance of weight gain.

There are several steps people can take to prevent weight gain during a period. A person can practice healthful eating habits throughout their cycle. This includes eating less salt, sugar, and fat, and stocking up on low calorie snacks to satisfy food cravings. In addition, magnesium supplements may help to alleviate bloating and other symptoms of PMS.

People who are concerned about fluid retention should talk to their doctor. The doctor may prescribe diuretics or oral contraceptives to help alleviate this symptom.