I have excessive vaginal discharge with a strong odor and itching.

Increased vaginal discharge accompanied by a strong, unpleasant odor and itching is commonly associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection), or trichomoniasis—three of the most frequent causes of vaginitis. Bacterial vaginosis typically presents with thin, grayish-white discharge and a characteristic “fishy” odor, especially after intercourse; itching may be mild or absent. In contrast, vulvovaginal candidiasis often causes thick, curd-like (white, cottage cheese–appearing) discharge, intense pruritus, and external vulvar erythema or swelling, though odor is usually minimal or absent. Trichomoniasis frequently produces frothy, yellow-green discharge, a pungent odor, and marked vulvovaginal irritation—including itching, burning, and dysuria. Less common but important considerations include aerobic vaginitis, desquamative inflammatory vaginitis, or, rarely, cervicitis or pelvic inflammatory disease—particularly if symptoms are persistent, recurrent, or associated with lower abdominal pain, fever, or postcoital bleeding. Accurate diagnosis requires clinical evaluation and targeted testing (e.g., wet mount microscopy, vaginal pH, whiff test, nucleic acid amplification tests). Self-treatment is discouraged, as misdiagnosis and inappropriate use of antifungals or antibiotics can disrupt the vaginal microbiome and delay effective therapy. A healthcare provider should perform a pelvic examination and appropriate laboratory assessment to guide evidence-based management.