Vaginal discharge — identifying what is normal and what isn’t

Though not something commonly discussed, vaginal discharge is a normal and routine occurrence for many of us. Discharge is a fluid produced by the vagina and cervix (the tissue that connects the vagina and uterus) and is the body’s way of keeping these areas clean and protected. You might notice that your vaginal discharge looks different on certain days and, while not usually a cause for concern, these changes shouldn’t be ignored. Here, we help you identify what’s normal and what isn’t when it comes to your vaginal discharge.

The important function of discharge

Vaginal discharge is a natural, mucus secretion that serves an important function: it’s released by the glands in the vagina and cervix to carry away fluid, cells and bacteria. The multifaceted role of discharge is to help keep the vagina clean, maintain a healthy pH balance and prevent vaginal infections.

It isn’t unusual for the amount of discharge­ – as well as its odour, texture and colour — to vary from person to person. Some people might notice discharge every day, while for others it may be less visible. The cyclic nature of menstruation and fluctuations in hormone levels also means that discharge may be more or less noticeable at different times of the month.

There’s variation in how vaginal discharge will look, feel and smell

So we’ve learnt that discharge is a normal and healthy part of our vaginal ecosystem, but how well do you know your own?

From clear and sticky, to white or creamy, and all the options in between — we’ve broken down what the differing types of discharge can mean:

THIN AND CLEAR

This is normal discharge that can appear at any time of the month. You might notice it’s heavier than usual after exercise.

STRETCHY AND CLEAR – AN EGG-WHITE CONSISTENCY

Also normal! Typically, this is the discharge you can expect when ovulating. This is because ovulation begins around two weeks before your period is due, and slippery discharge helps sperm move more easily through the cervix and into the fallopian tubes to meet the egg. If you’re wanting to get pregnant, this is the optimal time to conceive.

WHITE AND CLUMPY

Discharge that’s thick, white and has the texture of cottage cheese is a common symptom of a yeast infection. It happens when the yeast levels in your vagina are unbalanced, and it’s not normal. Though easily treatable, you’ll need to visit your GP.

THICKER THAN USUAL

If your discharge is thicker than normal, but you don’t have any other symptoms like a strong odour or itchiness, it’s likely just end-of-cycle creaminess. Discharge usually increases in thickness during the second half of your cycle, so this is normal.

CREAMY

Creamy discharge can be a sign of pregnancy. It’s normal for people to have thicker discharge — and more of it — early on in their pregnancy.

SLIPPERY OR CLEAR

This discharge is usually a sign you’re turned on. The clear fluid is called transudate, and it seeps through your vagina walls as blood flow increases to the area. Transudate acts like a lube, making sex more comfortable and helping sperm reach the eggs.

Remember, it’s important to visit a GP if something doesn’t feel right about the look, feel or smell of your discharge. Here are some further signs of abnormal discharge to look out for:

• Vaginal itching or burning
• Pain in the area
• A strong or unpleasant odour
• A consistency that’s frothy or foamy
• Discharge that’s green or grey in colour
• Bleeding that’s not part of your normal menstrual cycle.

These may be an indication of infection or inflammation, or possibly something more serious that requires treatment. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, or anything else out of the ordinary, it’s best to go and speak with a doctor straight away.

Discharge comes in an array of colours

Because of fluctuations in hormones, the colours of vaginal discharge will similarly fluctuate throughout the month. Getting to know the colours of your discharge can reveal a lot about whether it’s normal, or if there may be an infection.

• Clear or whitish discharge – the most common type of discharge, is an indication that your vagina is functioning as it should to eliminate dead cells and bacteria. The amount of clear or white discharge may increase at certain times of the month, and may be extra slippery in the weeks before menstruation.
• Red or brown discharge – this discharge is most usual before, during or after your period. It’s quite normal to see red or brown during menstruation, but it’s more concerning if seen at other times in your cycle (as this can indicate spotting). Spotting may be an early sign of pregnancy, a side effect of hormonal changes or, at times, a symptom of something more serious. If you have any concerns, talk with your doctor.
• Creamy or milky white discharge – like clear or whitish discharge, creamy or milky discharge is part of the healthy vaginal cleaning process and often seen pre-ovulation. If it is strong-smelling or the consistency doesn’t look right, however, it’s best to check in with a GP – it could be a sign of a yeast infection.
• Pink discharge – this discharge is most common after vaginal sex or at the start of menstruation. Again, if it occurs at a different time of the month, it’s safest to pay a visit to a GP.
• Yellow discharge – discharge that’s pale yellow in colour isn’t usually a reason to worry. Often, yellow discharge is the result of diet or vitamin changes. Normal discharge can also leave behind a yellowish stain in underwear. In some cases, though, yellow discharge may be a sign of an infection, particularly if it’s paired with an unpleasant odour.
• Grey or green discharge – Grey or green are not normal or healthy colours for discharge. Generally, this is an indication that you may have an infection like bacterial vaginosis. It’s important to make an appointment with a GP to get this looked at.

A final ode to discharge

For the most part, regular discharge is nothing more than a sign of a healthy reproductive system. It’s normal and needed — and it’s doing a vital job down there. Of course, you know your body best, which is why it’s so important to get to know your discharge. If you’re unsure, always check in with a trusted doctor for further advice.