vaginal discharge

Vaginal Discharge

While the medical term sounds strange, vaginal discharge is very normal. It refers to fluid that comes from the vagina and rids the body of bacteria, cervix secretions and dead vaginal skin cells. This discharge keeps vaginal tissues clean and lubricated while protecting the vaginal and urinary tracts from infections.¹

Depending on where a woman is in her age and menstrual cycle, the vaginal discharge color, texture and amount can be different. Some of those changes may indicate a health condition, particularly if they involve odor, color and consistency changes.²

Some of these changes can be caused by pregnancy, menstruation or certain medications, like hormonal birth control. However, they could also be the sign of an underlying health condition and may require a medical provider to examine them.  

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Understanding Normal Vaginal Discharge

Normal vaginal discharge is often clear and watery. There may be more discharge during pregnancy or sexual arousal. If the discharge becomes “stretchy,” that means that you are ovulating. A thick and sticky white discharge is more common at the beginning or end of the menstrual cycle. If there is any odor during this discharge, it is often mild.²

If your vaginal discharge is brown or appears bloody, there is often no reason to panic. This discharge often happens before or after the menstrual cycle or between them, which is called spotting. If you have spotting during your period or after sexual activity, it may be a sign of pregnancy. During pregnancy, it may be a sign of a miscarriage.²

What are the Types of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?

Abnormal vaginal discharge, also known as leukorrhea, often causes symptoms such as soreness, pelvic pain, itchiness, spotting and bleeding.

There are several types of vaginal discharge:

Physiologic leukorrhea: This refers to natural vaginal discharge and often increases during the early stages of pregnancy, during puberty and when you are aroused.²

Inflammatory leukorrhea: This causes large amounts of green or yellow discharge that has a distinct odor, as well as frequent and painful urination. Other symptoms include bleeding between menstrual periods as well as pain and bleeding after sex. It may be caused by:²

• An allergic reaction to deodorants, douches, spermicide or latex condoms
• An overgrowth of the bacteria that is normally in the vagina

Sometimes, a color change in your vaginal discharge can be explained by taking new vitamins or eating different foods. Also, garlic, onions, asparagus, coffee, spicy food and red meat may change the odor of your vagina.³

Parasitic leukorrhea: This causes itching, burning and a discharge of thick white or yellow mucous that may have a frothy or cheese-like texture. It is usually spread by either sexual contact or by sharing towels or bathing suits with someone who has a vaginal infection.²

When to Seek Medical Advice

Any change to your body may be the sign of a serious medical condition. If you have concerns or any of the following symptoms, get some peace of mind by visiting a provider:¹

• Burning or pain during urination or after sex
• Fatigue
• Foul or strong odor
• Frothy or thick, cottage cheese-like discharge
• Gray discharge
• Increased urination
• Itching
• Random vaginal bleeding not during menstruation
• Unexplained weight loss

If you have had frequent cases of abnormal vaginal discharge and recognize your symptoms, you should also see your provider. 

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?

There are several causes for abnormal vaginal discharge. When you see a provider, they will be able to better determine how you have been infected and suggest a treatment plan.

Bacterial vaginosis: A common bacterial infection, this causes increased gray discharge that may have a strong fishy odor. There may be no other symptoms. While it isn’t transmitted by sexual contact, those who are sexually active or have recently started having sex with a new partner are at a high degree of risk.²

Yeast infection: This is caused when yeast production increases within the vagina. Symptoms may include:

• Burning pain during urination and after sexual activity
• Itching

You are at higher risk of getting a yeast infection if you are also experiencing the following conditions:²

• Diabetes
• High levels of stress
• Pregnancy
• Prolonger use of antibiotics
• Taking birth control pills

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Abnormal vaginal discharge can also be caused by a variety of untreated STIs, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital warts, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes and trichomoniasis.²

Allergic reaction: The fragrances, dyes and alcohol found in certain beauty, hygiene and contraceptive products may cause an allergy known as contact dermatitis in your vagina. This causes redness, itchiness and pain. Products that have these irritants include:⁵

• Bubble baths
• Douches
• Fabric softeners
• Feminine sprays
• Latex condoms
• Laundry detergents
• Scented toilet paper, pads and liners
• Shower gels
• Soaps
• Spermicide

Note: Forgotten diaphragms and tampons may also be the cause of allergic reactions.⁶

Menopause: Postmenopausal women may experience a watery discharge that has a strong odor and causes itchiness. This occurs most often after intercourse and may be mixed with blood, which may cause it to be confused with postmenopausal bleeding.⁶

A condition known as atrophic vaginitis may happen during or after the hormonal changes caused by menopause. Your provider may prescribe vaginal estrogen tablets, creams or rings, which are safer than oral or skin patch delivery methods as they expose you to lower levels of estrogen.⁷

How to Prevent Abnormal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a natural process. While there’s no way of preventing it, you can take a number of steps toward reducing the changes of an abnormal discharge or infection.

Maintain vaginal hygiene: Regularly wash your vagina with just water, avoiding scented products or douches that may cause irritation. When finished, thoroughly dry the area.²

Wear breathable underwear: Cotton underwear can help reduce symptoms. Wear a new pair every day and wash your underwear frequently.

Change sanitary products frequently: When you have your menstrual cycle, change your tampon or pad frequently.²

Practice safe sex: While abstinence is the only foolproof method for avoiding STIs, you can decrease your chances of increasing vaginal issues if you have one monogamous partner. Any time you have sex, use a condom or other barrier method. Note: If you have a latex allergy, talk to your provider about other contraception alternatives.²

Manage health conditions: If you have ever had an STI, have a hormonal imbalance or are undergoing treatment for cervical or uterine cancer, your risk level is higher for abnormal vaginal discharge.¹

Make dietary adjustments: Your diet can impact your vaginal health. Positive steps include reducing your sugar intake, staying properly hydrated and taking probiotics.³ Want to learn more about staying properly hydrated?

MedExpress Pro Tip: Sweet potatoes are rich in beta carotene and vitamin A, which keep mucous membranes, like your vaginal tissues, working properly. Plus, they are high in folate, beta carotene, calcium and vitamins A, C, D and E, which can help prevent bacterial infections.³

Lifestyle changes: Simple changes can make a big difference, such as managing your stress level. Plus, avoiding tight-fitting clothing can eliminate the pH changes caused by sweat and moisture being trapped against your skin.³

Vaginal Discharge Treatment

When you see a provider, they will start by asking you about your symptoms, lifestyle and health, including your menstrual cycle. You will undergo a physical exam, which may include a pelvic exam.

If they’re unable to diagnose your issue, they may take a sample of the discharge and send it to a lab for further testing. Additionally, they may take a scraping of your cervix to check for HPV or cervical cancer.

Once they have an answer as to the cause of your discharge, you’ll get a treatment plan, which may include antibiotics or anti-fungal medication. In some cases, one dose of oral antibiotics by mouth can eliminate the issue. Another option is a vaginal cream or gel antibiotic, which may be more soothing for damaged vaginal lining.⁷

Abnormal vaginal discharge from a bacterial or yeast infections may respond to treatment in a week or less while STIs should respond to antibiotics within a week. However, if your infection has progressed to a pelvic inflammatory disease, treatment may take longer, or require imaging, IV or inpatient therapy.

What if I have recurrent abnormal vaginal discharge?

If you have had abnormal vaginal discharge before and recognize the symptoms, you may use over-the-counter antifungal creams without a prescription. If this does not improve your symptoms or if they increase in severity, make an appointment to see your provider.⁷

Does my sexual partner need to be treated because of my abnormal vaginal discharge?

Unless you have been diagnosed with an STI or experience frequent reoccurring abnormal vaginal discharge with no other cause, they do not need to be treated. However, if they experience their own discharge or pain during urination or sexual activity, they should be seen by a provider.

If you’re concerned about any women’s health issues, MedExpress is here for you. Just schedule an appointment or walk in from 8 to 8 for fast, compassionate and confidential care from our friendly medical team.

References:

1 Healthline. The Ultimate Vaginal Discharge Color Guide. Last updated June 21, 2023. Accessed April 23, 2024.

2 Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Vaginal Discharge. Last updated April 3, 2023. Accessed April 23, 2024.

3 Healthline. What Are the Best Foods to Eat to Support Your Vaginal Health? Last updated July 27, 2023. Accessed April 23, 2024.

4 CDC. Candidiasis. Accessed August 8, 2024.

5 Healthline. What to Know About Vaginal Itching. Last updated November 7, 2023. Accessed April 23, 2024.

6 National Library of Medicine / National Center for Biotechnology Information. Clinical Methods: The History, Physical and Laboratory Examinations. Chapter 172: Vaginal Discharge. Accessed April 24, 2024.