Vaginal Discharge - what is normal and what is not
All women have vaginal discharge; the fluid or secretions that come out of the vagina and are often seen on underwear. It is usually normal and healthy but sometimes discharge is a sign of infection. Knowing what is normal discharge can help to tell if there is something wrong. It is important for women to know their body so they can monitor their health.
Normal Vaginal Discharge
Under the changing influence of estrogen, the vagina and cervix secrete mucous which results in discharge. This chart describes normal discharge.
|
Cycle Day |
Type of Discharge |
Cause |
|---|---|---|
|
1 to 7 |
Menstrual bleeding begins and ends (your period) |
Lining of uterus sheds because pregnancy did not occur |
|
8 to 13 |
Small amounts of creamy discharge (usually white) |
Pre-ovulation, estrogen hormone rises |
|
14 to 16 |
Increased amounts of cloudy to clear discharge; discharge may have stringy consistency |
Ovulation occurs |
|
17 to 28 |
Small amounts of thicker discharge Or none at all |
Post-ovulation |
Sexual arousal fluid is also normal vaginal discharge. During sexual arousal the vagina produces a clear or cloudy fluid that makes penetration easier and more enjoyable. If you do not feel well lubricated, try more stimulation before penetration or use a water- or silicone-based lubricant.
Abnormal Discharge
There are different types of healthy bacteria that naturally live in the vagina. They work together in balance to protect from infection. Sometimes the bacteria can become imbalanced and an abnormal discharge may be noticed.
There are many reasons why a woman may experience abnormal discharge including: being tired or run down, douching, being pregnant, taking birth control or other medications, having certain medical conditions, allergic reactions, irritations of the vagina or sexually transmitted infections.
Signs of abnormal discharge include discharge that is:
- yellowish, greenish or grayish in colour,
- watery or extremely thick,
- foul smelling,
- frothy or curdy, or
- itchy or irritating to the skin.
If you are experiencing abnormal vaginal discharge you can:
- see a family physician,
- go to an after hours or urgent care clinic, or
- go to KFL&A Public Health's Sexual Health drop-in clinics.
Drop-in clinics are every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m.
How to prevent vaginal infections:
- wear cotton underwear and avoid tight fitting clothing,
- change into dry clothes soon after swimming or working out at the gym,
- avoid douching, scented soaps, bubble baths, scented pads or tampons, and feminine sprays,
- limit the number of sexual partners you have, and
- use condoms for protection from sexually transmitted infections.
Revised: 2014-12-10