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Vaginal discharge

Normally, cervical glands produce a clear mucus secretion that drains downward, mixing with bacteria, discarded cells and Bartholin's gland secretions. Disease may be indicated if vaginal discharge is abnormal in color, odor, or consistency, or significantly increased or decreased in amount.

Review Date: 11/7/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Bellevue, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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