Vaginal Discharge and Its Types

Vaginal discharge is a completely normal fluid that keeps the vagina clean and free of infections. However, the colour, texture and amount vary according to your age and stage of the menstrual cycle. Changes in any of these factors can indicate an underlying health issue. Bacterial vaginosis is one such condition that affects approximately 30% of women aged 14 to 49 and is the most common vaginal infection among women of reproductive age globally. 

Vaginal discharge can occur independently or in combination with other symptoms. Therefore, it is important to understand the white, yellow, green vaginal discharge meaning and when medical attention is required. So, keep reading to learn about the different types of vaginal discharge, their causes, and when to consult a doctor to keep your vagina healthy.

What is Vaginal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge is the fluid produced by the small glands in the vagina and cervix. To maintain the vagina and reproductive system clean and healthy, this fluid comes from the vagina every day to remove out debris and old cells. The volume of vaginal discharge varies greatly from person to person. A person's menstrual cycle stage can also affect the color, consistency and amount, which can vary from day to day:

• Days 1 to 5: As the body sheds the uterine lining at the start of the cycle, the discharge is typically red or bloody.
• Days 6 to 12: After a period, a person could experience less vaginal discharge than normal. The cervical mucus will get cloudy or white or yellow as the egg begins to grow and mature. It may have a sticky feel.
• Days 13 to 15: The mucus will be thin and slippery during the ovulation phase, resembling egg whites in consistency. The mucus will return to being cloudy white or yellow after ovulation, and it may also become tacky or sticky.
• Days 16–28: Before a person has another period, their cervical mucus will lighten and they will see less of it.

What Are the Major Types of Vaginal Discharge?

There are many different types of vaginal discharge, which are frequently categorised according to color and consistency. Following are the types of vaginal discharge by color:

Clear Discharge

The majority of vaginal discharge is either clear or white. It could have the consistency of egg whites or be slippery. Clearer, slicker discharge is likely to occur during sexual desire, right before ovulation, and throughout pregnancy.

White Discharge

The color can also be cream or bright yellow. In general, a white discharge is not a reason for concern if a person has no other symptoms. On the other hand, an infection-related vaginal discharge may occur if it has a cottage cheese-like consistency or a strong odor. This would require medical care. A yeast infection, which may result in itching or irritation, is usually indicated by a white, thick and strong-smelling discharge.

Red Discharge

The red colour can range from bright to a deep rust color. Bleeding during a period is the most prevalent cause of red discharge. Intermenstrual bleeding has many benign causes, but it can also occasionally be an indication of a serious medical condition. If vaginal bleeding occurs, anyone who is going through menopause should see a doctor. It might indicate endometrial cancer.

Pink Discharge

The discharge may be light or a considerably deeper shade of pink. Usually, there is some blood in it. The main cause of pink discharge is spotting before menstruation. On the other hand, it may also be a sign of early pregnancy implantation bleeding. Post-ovulation spotting might also result in pink discharge for some people. If the sex causes minor tears or irritation in the cervix or vagina, the discharge may be pink after the sex.

Yellow-Green Discharge

If the discharge has a faint yellow hue, it may not be an issue. This is particularly possible if the color change only occurs when you start taking nutritional supplements or a different diet. A more intense yellow, yellowish-green, or green discharge typically indicates a bacterial or STD infection. If the vaginal discharge is heavy, clumpy, or smells bad, get in touch with a doctor immediately.

Gray Discharge

Gray vaginal discharge may be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common bacterial infection. In addition, BV typically results in other vaginal symptoms such as redness or discoloration around the vulva or vaginal opening, itching, pain and a strong odor. If you have gray discharge, you should call a doctor right away. The doctor typically prescribes antibiotics to treat BV after a diagnosis.

Also Read: Vaginal discharge during Pregnancy

What Causes Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a normal biological response to changes in estrogen levels. Ovulation, sexual excitement, birth control medications and pregnancy can all contribute to an increase in discharge or make it unusual. Here are a few potential causes of vaginal discharge.

• Antibiotic or steroid use
• Bacterial vaginosis, a bacterial infection that is more prevalent in pregnant women and women who have several sexual partners
• Birth control pills
• Cervical cancer
• Gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Diabetes
• Douches, scented soaps or lotions, bubble bath
• Pelvic infection after surgery
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Trichomoniasis, a parasite infection that can be acquired through unprotected intercourse
• Vaginal atrophy, the weakening and drying of the vaginal walls after menopause
• Vaginitis, an irritation of the vagina or its surrounding area
• Yeast infections

When to Seek a doctor?

If you are confused between normal vs abnormal vaginal discharge and are seeing some unexpected changes, speak with a professional as soon as possible. Look for the following symptoms to know when to see a doctor for vaginal discharge:

• Bleeding during menstruation, after penetrative vaginal sex, or in between periods
• Pain when urinating
• Fever
• Abdominal pain or pain during penetrative vaginal sex
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Increased urination

Tips To Improve Your Vaginal Health

Abnormal discharge and infections can be avoided by maintaining good vaginal health. Here are some important tips to help maintain your vaginal health:

• Practice Good Hygiene: On a regular basis, wash the vaginal region with warm water and mild, unscented soap. Douching (washing vagina from inside) should be avoided since it can upset the natural microbial balance.
• Wear Breathable Underwear: To lower the risk of yeast infections, choose cotton underwear that promotes air circulation and inhibits moisture buildup.
• Stay Away From Scented Feminine Products: Products such as bubble baths, deodorants and scented wipes can irritate skin and cause allergic reactions. Choose mild, fragrance-free products.
• Stay Hydrated And Maintain A Balanced Diet: A healthy vaginal environment can be maintained by drinking plenty of water and eating foods high in probiotics, such as yoghurt.
• Wipe From Front To Back: To stop bacteria from the anus from getting into the vagina, always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom.
• Regular Health Check-Ups: See your obstetrician for regular examinations, particularly if your discharge changes over time.

By following to these practices, you can keep your vaginal environment healthy, balanced and clean.

Keep Your Vagina Healthy by Treating Any Unusual Discharge Early!

Normal vs abnormal vaginal discharge is important. Vaginal discharge is usually clear or white. Red or pink discharge is frequently caused by the presence of blood, such as during a period or after sexual activity. Thus, you must kearn the key differences between normal vs abnormal vaginal discharge to catch the problem early on. 

Discharge that is white, yellow, green, or gray could be a sign of an infection, which requires medical attention. We at Apollo Spectra are aware how disturbing it is for a woman to notice an abnormal vaginal discharge. Our expert obstetricians and gynaecologists may monitor what is normal for your body and identify any changes as soon as possible. Contact us today if you are noticing any abnormal symptoms of vaginal discharge.