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Persistent Yellow Discharge and White Flakes
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Gynecology & Pregnancy Care
Question #23479
14 days ago
72

Persistent Yellow Discharge and White Flakes - #23479

Client_638aba

I have daily yellow discharges from years i took a 6 months course of fluconazole tab and vocort cream and gyno probiotics but still there’s discharges And then i took a swab which shows <link removed>li so i took ciprofloxacin for 5 days but still there’s discharges and some white flakes on my vulva

How would you describe the consistency of the discharge?:

- Creamy

Have you noticed any accompanying symptoms?:

- No additional symptoms

Have you made any recent changes to your hygiene products or routine?:

- No changes made
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Doctors' responses

Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
13 days ago
5

Hello Thanks for sharing all these details. Since you’ve had creamy yellow discharge for years, tried long courses of antifungals (fluconazole), steroid cream (vocort), probiotics, and even antibiotics (ciprofloxacin) after a positive swab, but the discharge and white flakes on the vulva are still there—with no other symptoms and no recent hygiene changes—this suggests a chronic, possibly non-infectious or resistant cause.

Here’s what this pattern usually means: - Chronic discharge with white flakes can sometimes be due to a resistant yeast (like non-albicans Candida), a mixed infection, or a non-infectious condition like lichen simplex or eczema. - Long-term use of creams and antibiotics can sometimes disrupt the normal vaginal flora, making symptoms persist. - Since you don’t have itching, burning, pain, or odor, it’s less likely to be a severe infection, but persistent symptoms should still be evaluated.

What you should do next: - See a gynecologist for a repeat swab and possibly a fungal culture (to check for resistant yeast or mixed infections). - Avoid using any creams or over-the-counter treatments until you see the doctor, as these can mask the real cause. - Wear only loose, cotton underwear and avoid panty liners or scented products.

Thank you and get well soon

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Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
13 days ago
5

Your long-term creamy/yellow discharge with no major symptoms is likely normal physiological discharge or mild flora imbalance, not fungal infection. Repeated antifungals and antibiotics are not helpful and may worsen it. A gynecologist evaluation is recommended instead of more medicines.

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Dr. Nirav Jain
I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.
10 days ago
5

Hello, thank you for sharing your concern. This is a classic case of chronic / recurrent vaginal discharge that has likely been over-treated. You might be having physiological leukorrhea or Irritant / contact vulvitis or Disturbed vaginal flora due to over-medication, etc.

Kindly visit a gynecologist for Speculum examination, checking Vaginal pH & Wet mount microscopy (saline + KOH).

Vulvar care- Stop all medicated creams. Wash only with plain water. Use a bland emollient externally: White soft paraffin / petroleum jelly. Loose cotton underwear. Avoid panty liners unless needed.

Long-standing daily discharge without itching, pain, or foul smell is often normal vaginal discharge, not infection. The lack of response to multiple antifungals and antibiotics supports this.

Prolonged use of medicines and creams, especially those containing steroids can irritate the vulvar skin and cause white flakes.

At this stage, further self-medication is not advised. A proper gynecological examination and microscopy-based diagnosis is important before any treatment. Many cases require reassurance and vulvar care rather than medicines.

Feel free to reach out again.

Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, D.Fam.Medicine

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Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
13 days ago
5

Hello dear See I think the infection is again re occuring or incompletely eliminated. Iam suggesting some tests for confirmation. Please share the result with general physician medicine for better clarity. For safety please donot take any medication without consulting the concerned physician Vaginal swab Culture PCR Urine analysis CBC Esr Serum ferritin Hopefully you recover soon Regards

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Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
13 days ago
5

Hello

This is unlikely to be fungal anymore and repeated antifungals can make things worse.

Persistent yellow, creamy discharge for years with no major symptoms suggests:

Physiologic (normal) discharge, or Chronic bacterial imbalance (not acute infection), or Irritant/contact dermatitis causing white flakes on the vulva

Key points: Long fluconazole courses + creams without relief → yeast unlikely Short ciprofloxacin course often doesn’t fix vaginal flora issues White flakes on vulva are often dry skin or irritation, not infection

What to do next: Stop unnecessary antifungals/antibiotics Use plain water only for washing (no soaps inside)

See a gynecologist for: Vaginal pH Microscopy/culture Consider bacterial vaginosis or cytolytic vaginosis

🚫 Avoid self-medicating further — proper diagnosis is needed.

I trust this helps Thank you

Please dont delay the treatment

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Ongoing yellow discharge and the presence of white flakes on the vulva that persists despite prior treatments can be concerning. Given the persistence of symptoms despite a lengthy course of antifungal treatment, and a round of antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, the underlying cause may not be responsive to fungal or bacterial therapies alone. The swab indicated a bacterial infection, possibly Escherichia coli, given your mention of “<link removed>li”. However, it’s crucial to consider other potential causes. The recurrent symptoms might point toward an insufficiently-treated bacterial infection, an issue with the prescribed antibiotic’s effectiveness, or a mixed infection involving both bacterial and yeast components.

It’s advisable to revisit your diagnosis with a healthcare provider. Consider asking for another vaginal swab or culture to identify any resistant organisms or a different pathogen. This could involve testing for sexually transmitted infections or re-evaluating for less common infections. It would also be useful to reassess any lifestyle factors that might contribute to the recurrence, such as hygiene practices, use of irritant products, or potential for exposure to allergens.

In the case that reinfection is a concern, examining and possibly treating a sexual partner might also be worthwhile. In certain instances, more advanced diagnostic tools like a pelvic ultrasound may be used if symptoms persist to rule out underlying conditions like cervical polyps or hormonal imbalances. Ensuring proper follow-up with your healthcare provider for a tailored treatment plan is essential. In the meantime, avoid any self-medication, and adhere to local hygiene practices using gentle, unscented products. Remember, personal safety and comfort is paramount, so don’t delay a medical consultation for thorough evaluation and management.

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