Vaginal Discharge
(Symptoms)
This page will help you answer your questions about Vaginal Discharge.
What is Vaginal Discharge?
- Vaginal discharge is a clear or white fluid that comes from the vagina. It is produced by the uterus, cervix, and vagina and is mainly composed of cells and bacteria. These secretions help cleanse and lubricate the vagina,in addition to helping fight harmful bacteria and infections.
- Other characteristics of normal vaginal discharge include:
- Texture: It is normal for vaginal discharge to range from watery to sticky or thick. However, factors like infection can change this consistency. Thick, foamy, or itchy discharge with color changes may indicate an infection.
- Color: Healthy vaginal discharge is clear, milky white, or pale white. Dark yellow, brown, green, or gray discharge may indicate an infection or another problem.
Odor: Vaginal discharge may have a slight odor, but it should not be strong or unpleasant. A foul or unusual smell, combined with changes in texture or color, may indicate an infection.
Amount: Some people produce more discharge than others. Factors such as pregnancy, birth control pills, or ovulation can affect the amount of discharge. Sudden changes in the quantity of vaginal discharge may signal a problem.
- What Causes Vaginal Discharge?
- Vaginal discharge is a natural process, but changes in discharge may indicateinfection or disease. Common infections that can alter vaginal discharge include:
- Yeast infections: Occur when certain fungi overgrow in the vagina. They produce thick, white, odorless discharge. The vagina may swell and cause itching.
- Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite, which can cause green, yellow, or grayfrothy discharge. It is treated with antibiotics.
Bacterial vaginosis: Occurs when there is an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina. It can be sexually transmitted and causes white or gray discharge with a strong, unpleasant odor.
Gonorrhea and chlamydia: Common sexually transmitted infections passed through sexual contact with an infected person. Some people experience cloudy, yellow, or green vaginal discharge.
- How to Manage Vaginal Discharge?Tips to Reduce Vaginal Discharge.
- It is normal to have some discharge daily. You cannot prevent it because it is your body’s way of keeping the vagina clean and healthy. Here are tips to maintain vaginal hygiene and prevent infections or illness:
- Avoid using scented soaps, gels, wipes, or other feminine products.
- Do not douche or wash inside the vagina.
Avoid wearing tight underwear, swimsuits, or sweaty clothes for prolonged periods.
Wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the rectum entering the vagina.
- When Should You See a Doctor?
- You should consult a doctor if you experience:
- An increase in vaginal discharge.
- Changes in the color of the discharge.
- Foul-smelling discharge.
- Changes in the texture or consistency of discharge.
Irritation, itching, or pain in or around the vagina.
Pelvic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the normal changes in discharge during pregnancy?
It is normal to see an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy, as higher progesterone levels can increase the amount of discharge. This helps prevent infections from reaching the uterus.
