Vaginal discharge: How to know if it is normal

As unpleasant as vaginal discharge looks or smells, it is perfectly normal. It is characterized by a clear, white, or off-white liquid that leaks from your vagina. Discharge from the uterus, cervix, and vagina is made up of cells and healthy bacteria that help maintain your reproductive health. It cleans and lubricates your intimate area while fighting bacterial infections. It’s important to know that vaginal discharge is a natural process in the body and shouldn’t set off an alarm.

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A normal vaginal discharge is clear and white in appearance. Its texture can vary from watery and sticky to sticky, thick, and pasty, the Cleveland Clinic describes. In color it can be clear, milky white or off-white. If you notice dark yellow, brown, green, or gray discharge, get checked for an infection or other problem.

It is normal for vaginal discharge to have a mild odor. Strong and unpleasant odor may indicate something else or concern. The amount of vaginal discharge can vary from person to person. However, if the amount changes suddenly and abruptly, it could indicate something else.

Here are some things to consider when it comes to spotting abnormal vaginal discharge.

– An increase in the amount of vaginal discharge

– Change in the color of the discharge

– A foul-smelling, “fishy” odor

– Change in the texture or consistency of the discharge

– Irritation, inflammation and vaginal itching or pain

There can be several reasons for abnormal vaginal discharge. Usually, a change in the balance of normal bacteria can cause a heavy vaginal discharge accompanied by a smelly, colorful discharge. Causes include:

– Use of antibiotics or steroids

– birth control pills

– Diabetes

– Use of scented soaps or lotions

– pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

– Vaginitis

– Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

– Yeast or urinary tract infection

According to Medical News Today, the color, consistency, and amount can also change from day to day. This sometimes depends on your menstrual cycle.

Vaginal discharge early in the cycle may be red or bloody as the body is shedding the lining of the uterus.

After you have had your period, you may notice less vaginal discharge than usual. This is because the egg begins to mature and the cervical mucus becomes cloudy and white or yellow with a sticky texture.

Before ovulation, the discharge is thin and slippery. It will be cloudy, white, or yellow, and possibly sticky or sticky.

Towards the end of the menstrual cycle, the cervical mucus becomes lighter. The amount of vaginal discharge is less.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that can be passed from one person to another through sexual activity. Aside from the varied symptoms, abnormal vaginal discharge can also be a telltale sign. STI discharge can be lumpy in texture and white, green, yellow, or bloody. The odor can be putrid and fishy. There is also the possibility of pain and discomfort when urinating or having sexual intercourse. All these signs must be enough to see a doctor.