The discharge is grey and watery, and has a strong, unpleasant fishy smell, which is its most characteristic feature. Both thrush and BV have a tendency to occur more than once over a period of time. Genital warts and herpes may be found on the genital area and around the anus. Warts are painless, fleshy swellings. They are unsightly and may irritate.
Herpes causes tiny blisters that burst to leave ulcers that resemble cold sores.
They cause severe burning or stinging pain and swelling. The glands in the groin may swell and pain can occur in the legs or back. The symptoms of other sexually transmitted infections may include vaginal discharge, pain on passing urine or pain during intercourse, or such infections may be symptomless. They have the potential to spread upwards into the womb, tubes and ovaries and cause serious illness and infertility. Bartholin's glands are situated on either side of the vaginal opening.