What Is Vaginal Discharge and What Are the Causes?
Vaginal discharge is a natural and essential function of the female reproductive system. It helps keep the vagina clean, protects against infection, and facilitates fertility. However, changes in discharge can sometimes indicate infections or health concerns that require attention.
Understanding what constitutes normal versus abnormal discharge is vital for maintaining reproductive and overall well-being. This article will explore the different types of vaginal discharge, what they mean, their causes, and when it’s time to consult a doctor.
What Is Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a fluid made by glands inside the vagina and cervix. It carries away dead cells and bacteria, helping keep the vaginal environment clean and balanced. The amount, colour, texture, and smell of discharge vary throughout the menstrual cycle and from one woman to another.
Normal vaginal discharge:
- Is clear or milky white
- Has little to no odour
- Varies in consistency (from watery to sticky) depending on the menstrual phase
The presence of healthy discharge is a sign that the body is functioning properly.
Types of Vaginal Discharge and Their Meanings
Recognising the different types of discharge can help identify normal physiological changes versus signs of infection or other health conditions.
1. Clear and Watery
This is perfectly normal and often occurs after exercise or during ovulation. It may also be more abundant during pregnancy.
2. Clear and Stretchy
This egg-white-like discharge typically indicates ovulation and peak fertility. It’s a good sign if you’re trying to conceive.
3. White and Thick
White discharge at the beginning or end of your cycle is normal. However, if it's thick with a cottage cheese texture and accompanied by itching, it may signal a yeast infection.
4. Yellow or Green
This could indicate an infection, particularly if it has a foul odour or is accompanied by irritation. It may be a sign of bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like trichomoniasis.
5. Brown or Bloody
Brown discharge may occur at the end of your period or due to old blood. Spotting between periods, especially if frequent, may signal hormonal imbalance or other conditions like fibroids or even early pregnancy.
6. Grey Discharge
This is often associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV), especially if it has a fishy odour. BV is not sexually transmitted but needs medical treatment.
Common Causes of Vaginal Discharge
While some changes in discharge are perfectly normal, others can indicate an underlying health issue. Below are some common causes categorised as either normal or abnormal:
Normal Causes:
- Ovulation
- Pregnancy
- Sexual arousal
- Hormonal changes (puberty, menopause)
- Contraceptive use (pills, IUDs)
Abnormal Causes:
- Yeast Infection: Caused by Candida fungus; leads to thick, white, and itchy discharge.
- Bacterial Vaginosis: A bacterial imbalance resulting in grey discharge with a strong odour.
- STIs: Such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or trichomoniasis causing yellow, green, or frothy discharge.
- Cervical or vaginal infections: Resulting from poor hygiene, retained tampons, or foreign objects.
- Cancer: In rare cases, unusual discharge can be a symptom of cervical or endometrial cancer.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical advice if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Itching, burning, or swelling around the vagina
- Discharge with a strong or unusual odour
- Yellow, green, or grey discharge
- Thick and white discharge with irritation
- Pain during urination or intercourse
- Bleeding between periods or after menopause
Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure reproductive health is maintained.
How to Maintain Vaginal Health
Good hygiene and healthy habits can reduce the risk of infections and abnormal discharge. Here’s how:
- Wear breathable cotton underwear and change daily
- Avoid scented products and douches that disrupt vaginal pH
- Wipe front to back after using the toilet
- Use condoms during sex to reduce risk of STIs
- Maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of water
- Avoid tight clothing that traps moisture
Diagnosing the Cause of Abnormal Discharge
Doctors will typically conduct a pelvic exam and may take a sample of the discharge for laboratory testing. Depending on the results, they may prescribe:
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Antifungal medication for yeast infections
- Antiviral medication for viral STIs like herpes
Self-medication is discouraged, as incorrect treatment can worsen the problem.
Is Vaginal Discharge Normal During Pregnancy?
Yes. Increased vaginal discharge is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the pelvic region. However, pregnant women should be cautious if the discharge is:
- Foul-smelling
- Greenish or grey
- Accompanied by itching or burning
These signs may indicate an infection that could pose risks to both mother and baby.
Real-Life Example
Case Study: Alisha, a 29-year-old working professional, noticed thick white discharge and itching. Assuming it was normal, she ignored it for weeks. Eventually, she experienced intense discomfort and sought medical advice. She was diagnosed with a yeast infection and treated with antifungal medication. The symptoms resolved within a week. Her takeaway: "Don't ignore changes in your body—early treatment saves you unnecessary pain."
FAQs About Vaginal Discharge
Is it normal to have discharge every day?
Yes, some daily discharge is normal. The quantity and consistency vary with your menstrual cycle, sexual activity, and age.
Does discharge mean I have an infection?
Not necessarily. Only when discharge changes colour, texture, or smell and is accompanied by discomfort should it raise concern.
Can I prevent vaginal infections?
Yes. Maintaining hygiene, avoiding scented products, and practising safe sex significantly reduce your risk of infections.
Is discharge normal after sex?
Yes, especially after arousal. However, if accompanied by burning or odour, consult a doctor as it could indicate an infection.
Can stress or diet affect discharge?
Absolutely. Hormonal fluctuations due to stress or poor diet can alter discharge patterns and affect vaginal pH balance.