I have had constant vaginal discharge for almost two years. I have been tested for yeast, STDs, bacterial infections, diabetes, etc., all with negative results. I have tried every medicine; my doctor even painted me with a purple liquid that was supposed to kill all the bacteria in my vagina. The discharge is thick, colored white to yellow. I'm not itchy -- it is uncomfortable only because it is always there. There is no odor other than a little sourness. I have tried changing soaps, avoiding condoms and stopping tampons. Do you have any advice?

--Erin

There is a condition called "cytolytic vaginitis" caused by an overabundance of the "good" bacteria, lactobacillus. In this condition, there is often a clumpy white discharge and sometimes burning. Vaginal pH is too acidic. Treatment consists of alkalinizing the vagina via a baking-soda-and-water douche. Because douching can alter the vaginal environment and lead to infections, douching should never be done on a regular basis. Your doctor should test your vaginal pH first, to see if this is a possibility.

However, not all discharge is infection. Some discharges are normal. Discharge can change in relationship to where one is in one's menstrual cycle. Some women just have more discharge than others. You have had what appears to be a very thorough work-up. If all infections, alterations of vaginal pH and chemical sensitivities (i.e., to soaps, tampons, condoms or even sperm) are ruled out, then this discharge, while unpleasant, must be normal for you. Wearing a panty liner and changing it often may be the best way for you to deal with this discharge.