The Management of Patients Presenting with Genital Discharge
- Author:
Ellen Chan
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Sexually Transmitted Infection;
gonorrhoea;
chlamydia;
vaginal discharge;
urethritis
- From:The Singapore Family Physician
2013;39(1 (Supplement)):27-39
- CountrySingapore
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The approach to the management of genital discharge in men and women differ due to the varying presentations and aetiologies for each. In women, non-sexually transmitted causes are typically, physiological, bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis. In men, chlamydia and gonorrhoea are the most frequent causes of urethritis. A thorough history and examination should be conducted as they provide a guide to diagnosis and treatment. Investigations are particularly important in women to confirm or exclude sexually transmitted infections which are often asymptomatic. Where a sexually transmitted infection is suspected, patients should be counselled regarding abstaining until treatment completion, notification and treatment of sex partners to reduce onward transmission and re-infection, and safe sex practices.
