Causes of a Jelly-Like Vaginal Discharge

The glands in the cervix and vagina make small amounts of fluid that are expelled from the vagina at different times during the reproductive cycle. All women experience some vaginal discharge as a regular part of life. When the vaginal mucus becomes thick and jelly-like, changes in color or smell or is accompanied by other symptoms, it can indicate an underlying disorder.

Vulvovaginitis

Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina most commonly caused by bacteria, yeasts, viruses and other infectious organisms. MedlinePlus notes that vulvovaginitis can also develop as a result of sexually transmitted diseases, chemical irritants and poor hygiene. Symptoms of vulvovaginitis include swelling inside and around the vaginal area, itching in the genital area, jelly-like vaginal discharge, vaginal odor and burning during urination. Treatment for vulvovaginitis depends on the underlying cause. A number of treatment options are available, including antibiotics, anti-fungal creams, antihistamines and cortisone cream.

Cervicitis

Cervicitis literally means inflammation of the cervix, which is the part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Many women with cervicitis do not experience symptoms, but those who do experience jelly-like vaginal discharge with unpleasant color or odor, painful urination, increase in urinary frequency and spotting between periods. Cervicitis can develop as a result of sexually transmitted diseases, allergic reactions to condoms or feminine hygiene products or overgrowth of bacteria. Antibiotic treatment is used for bacterial cervicitis, but other types usually clear up on their own. MayoClinic.com recommended abstaining from sexual intercourse until the inflammation has cleared.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which thrives in warm, moist places, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gonorrhea can be spread through direct genital contact as well as contact with the mouth or anus of an infected person. In those who experience symptoms, symptoms usually appear within two to five days after infection but the process can take up to thirty days. Symptoms of gonorrhea include burning during urination, increased jelly-like vaginal discharge and spotting. Women with gonorrhea are at high risk for developing future complications so if these symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical care. Gonorrhea can often be treated with antibiotics, however, due to antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria, treatment is becoming increasingly difficult.