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Vaginal discharge plays an important housekeeping role in a female’s reproductive system by keeping the vagina clean and healthy. The amount, colour and consistency of vaginal discharge can vary between persons and time of the menstrual cycle. For most, normal vaginal discharge should be clear and odorless with no vaginal itching or pain. It is worth noting that having vaginal discharge alone does not mean there is an infection. However, if you do observe any of these signs and symptoms below, please seek treatment promptly.

Severe vaginal itching, burning or pain

Thick, cheese-like consistency discharge

Fishy and foul-smelling odor

Painful intercourse or urination

In TCM, abnormal vaginal discharge is believed to be caused by dampness invading the Ren-Dai meridians. Commonly seen TCM syndromes are:

Heat dampness: Heavy, yellow, foul-smelling discharge and vaginal itching

Spleen deficiency: Clear, odorless, white or yellow discharge.

Kidney-yang deficiency: Clear, watery, and persistent discharge.

Here we have some simple food recipes that the ladies can take to help manage abnormal vaginal discharge.

Winter melon seed tea
Ingredients: Winter melon seed 15g Preparation:

1. Wash the winter melon seeds. Place them into the pot, and add an appropriate amount of water
2. Bring to boil over high heat and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes
3. Set aside to cool before drinking

Indications: Heavy, yellow discharge, with strong odor, vaginal itching, thirsty, irritable
*Not recommended for individuals with gastrointestinal disorders, frequent diarrhea

Chinese yam lotus seed barley soup
Ingredients: Chinese yam 30g, lotus seed (peeled and cored) 30g, Chinese barley 30g Preparation:

1. Rinse Chinese yam, lotus seed and Chinese barley.
2. Place herbs into a pot and add 1000 ml of water. Add rock sugar to taste.
3. Cook for 1 hour or until the ingredients have softened.

Indications: Clear watery discharge, coupled with poor appetite and insomnia

Of course, good basic hygiene, getting plenty of sleep, and a well-rounded diet are always good ideas for vaginal health, as well as for your overall health and well-being. You can reduce chances of vaginal infection by avoiding and adopting some of these practices:

Avoid long term usage of pantyliners after menses to prevent bacteria growth

Avoid having intercourse during periods, abnormal bleeding or active infection

Avoid excessive usage of vaginal wash to prevent disrupting the vagina’s natural acidic environment

Choose cotton underwear and wear loose, comfy bottoms

Wash undergarments at higher temperatures and dry under direct sunlight to kill bacteria

Cultivate good intimate hygiene practices