Vaginal Discharge 101
As women, vaginal discharge is a part of life. Many may not think twice of their vaginal discharge, but I’m here to tell you that vaginal discharge might actually tell you more than you think.
Before we dive into how to recognize the differences in vaginal discharge, let’s start from the beginning.
What is vaginal discharge?
- Vaginal discharge is a fluid created by glands in the vagina and cervix. The fluid carries dead cells and bacteria out of the body and can help keep the vagina clean and healthy.
- Vaginal discharge can vary from person to person and can also change throughout the menstrual cycle. Some people may have discharge everyday while others experience it less frequently.
- On average, most people produce a little less than 1 teaspoon of discharge in a 24 hour period. This amount can vary however depending on things like ovulation and birth control.
- While changes in the amount and color of vaginal discharge are completely normal, some changes may be a sign of infection or another underlying health condition.
So, how can you tell when vaginal discharge could be signaling a problem?
The Color Wheel of Vaginal Discharge
- White
- White, milky or even light yellow discharge is considered to be normal. Thick white discharge is common at the beginning and end of the menstrual cycle. If you are experiencing additional symptoms such as; itching, burning and irritation along with thick white discharge this may be a sign of a yeast infection.
- Clear
- Clear or whitish discharge is also considered to be normal. You may experience clear discharge around ovulation, with sexual arousal or during pregnancy. More specifically, clear discharge can also become stretchy or mucous-like around the time of ovulation.
- Yellow/Green
- Discharge that is on the darker side of yellow or green may indicate infection. In addition to a color change, if discharge becomes thick, chunky or has an unpleasant odor these are signs to contact your healthcare provider.
- Grey
- Grey discharge can be accompanied with itching, a strong odor and possible swelling. Grey discharge is not normal and may possibly be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), you should contact your healthcare provider if grey discharge is seen.
- Pink/Red
- Pink or red discharge may occur before or during your menstrual cycle. Some people may also experience pink discharge after ovulation. Occasionally, pink or red discharge may be seen after sexual intercourse as a result of irritation to the vagina or cervix. If this is a common occurrence, consider talking to your healthcare provider.
- Brown
- Brown discharge is also typically seen as spotting between menstrual cycles. It is most commonly seen directly following a period as your body is “cleaning out” your vagina. If brown discharge or spotting is occurring regularly you should contact your healthcare provider to rule out additional diagnoses.
How Pelvic PT can help
If you have questions about vaginal discharge or have concerns about any abnormalities in your discharge ask your pelvic PT! Your PT can help discuss these findings and talk through if a visit to your doctor is needed.
Body Harmony Physical Therapy offers one pelvic floor physical therapist to one patient evaluation and treatment sessions. Our treatments are for up to one hour in a private treatment room (not a booth). We provide individualized home programs to every patient. We offer a quick call back option for potential patients who have questions or concerns related to physical therapy.
