Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a normal and healthy bodily function that helps keep the vagina clean and prevents infection. The amount, color, and consistency of discharge naturally varies throughout the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, and with age. Normal discharge is typically clear to white, has a mild odor or no odor, and doesn't cause irritation. However, changes in discharge can sometimes indicate infections, hormonal imbalances, or other health conditions. Understanding what's normal for your body and recognizing signs of abnormal discharge helps you maintain vaginal health and seek appropriate care when needed.

⚠️ Seek Medical Attention For:

  • Discharge with strong, foul odor
  • Green, yellow, or gray discharge
  • Cottage cheese-like consistency
  • Frothy or foamy discharge
  • Blood-tinged discharge (not menstrual)
  • Severe itching or burning
  • Pain during urination or intercourse
  • Pelvic pain with discharge
  • Fever with abnormal discharge
  • Possible STI exposure

Normal vs Abnormal Discharge

Normal Discharge

  • Clear to milky white
  • Thin to slightly thick
  • Mild or no odor
  • Amount varies with cycle
  • No irritation
  • Stretchy during ovulation

Bacterial Vaginosis

  • Gray or white discharge
  • Thin, watery consistency
  • Strong fishy odor
  • Worse after intercourse
  • May have itching
  • Most common infection

Yeast Infection

  • White, thick discharge
  • Cottage cheese texture
  • Little to no odor
  • Intense itching
  • Redness and swelling
  • Burning sensation

Trichomoniasis

  • Yellow-green discharge
  • Frothy or foamy
  • Foul smell
  • Itching and irritation
  • Painful urination
  • STI - needs treatment

Discharge Throughout the Cycle

Menstrual Phase

  • Little to no discharge
  • Mixed with menstrual blood
  • Days 1-5 of cycle

Follicular Phase

  • Scant discharge initially
  • Gradually increases
  • White or cloudy
  • Sticky consistency

Ovulation

  • Clear, stretchy discharge
  • Egg white consistency
  • Most abundant
  • Slippery texture
  • Helps sperm travel

Luteal Phase

  • Thick, white discharge
  • Creamy consistency
  • Less abundant
  • Before menstruation

Common Causes of Abnormal Discharge

Infections

  • Bacterial vaginosis
  • Yeast infections (candidiasis)
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease

Non-Infectious Causes

  • Hormonal changes
  • Pregnancy
  • Birth control pills
  • Menopause
  • Stress
  • Allergic reactions
  • Foreign bodies (forgotten tampon)

Other Conditions

  • Cervical erosion
  • Cervical polyps
  • Cervical cancer (rare)
  • Vaginal atrophy
  • Fistulas

Associated Symptoms

Abnormal discharge often occurs with:

  • Itching: Vulvar or vaginal irritation
  • Burning: During urination or at rest
  • Odor: Fishy, foul, or unusual smell
  • Pain: During intercourse or pelvic area
  • Redness: Vulvar inflammation
  • Swelling: Of vulva or vaginal area
  • Bleeding: Between periods or after sex
  • Urinary symptoms: Frequency, urgency

Medical Evaluation

Medical History

  • Discharge characteristics
  • Associated symptoms
  • Sexual history
  • Menstrual history
  • Current medications
  • Previous infections

Physical Examination

  • External genital exam
  • Speculum examination
  • pH testing
  • Whiff test (KOH test)
  • Bimanual examination

Laboratory Tests

  • Wet mount: Microscopic examination
  • Cultures: Bacterial or fungal
  • STI testing: Comprehensive panel
  • Pap smear: If due
  • Gram stain: Bacterial identification

Treatment Options

Bacterial Infections

  • Metronidazole (oral or gel)
  • Clindamycin cream
  • Complete full course
  • Partner treatment if STI
  • Avoid alcohol with meds
  • Probiotics may help

Yeast Infections

  • Antifungal creams
  • Suppositories
  • Oral fluconazole
  • OTC options available
  • Complete treatment
  • Avoid irritants

STI Treatment

  • Specific antibiotics
  • Partner notification
  • Abstain during treatment
  • Follow-up testing
  • Complete screening
  • Prevention counseling

Supportive Care

  • Wear cotton underwear
  • Avoid douching
  • Use unscented products
  • Practice good hygiene
  • Stay hydrated
  • Manage stress

Prevention Strategies

Hygiene Practices

  • Wipe front to back
  • Avoid douching
  • Change out of wet clothes
  • Use mild, unscented soap
  • Avoid tight-fitting clothes
  • Change pads/tampons regularly

Lifestyle Factors

  • Wear breathable underwear
  • Maintain healthy diet
  • Manage blood sugar
  • Limit antibiotic use
  • Practice safe sex
  • Regular check-ups

What to Avoid

  • Scented feminine products
  • Harsh soaps or bubble baths
  • Synthetic underwear
  • Prolonged moisture
  • Excessive washing
  • Sharing personal items

Special Considerations

During Pregnancy

  • Increased discharge normal
  • Usually thin, white, mild odor
  • Report changes to provider
  • Some infections risk pregnancy
  • Safe treatment available

Menopause

  • Decreased discharge common
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Increased infection risk
  • May need hormone therapy
  • Use lubricants

Adolescents

  • Discharge starts before periods
  • Normal part of puberty
  • Education important
  • Establish good habits

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Immediate Attention

  • Severe pelvic pain
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Fever with discharge
  • Pregnancy with concerning discharge

Schedule Appointment

  • Persistent abnormal discharge
  • Recurrent infections
  • Failed OTC treatment
  • New sexual partner
  • Concerning symptoms

Related Symptoms

Vaginal Itching

Often accompanies infections.

Pelvic Pain

May indicate serious infection.

Painful Urination

Common with vaginal infections.

Abnormal Bleeding

May occur with discharge.