Change Location X. We've expanded your view You are now viewing all services in the Sutter Health network. You can change your location above to narrow your view to a medical group, hospital, city or zip. Search Close Search. Vaginal Discharge. Keep an eye on vaginal emissions and changes that mean you should see a doctor. Vaginal discharge is normal and varies during your menstrual cycle. Different Types of Discharge White — Thick, white discharge is common at the beginning and end of your cycle.
Normal white discharge is not accompanied by itching. If itching is present, thick white discharge may indicate a yeast infection. Clear and watery — This occurs at different times of your cycle and can be particularly heavy after exercising. Old blood looks brown. Spotting blood — This may occur mid-cycle or when ovulating. Sometimes early in pregnancy you may have spotting or a brownish discharge at the time your period would normally come.
This might be a sexually transmitted infection STI. Below, we explore the relationship between menstruation and white discharge.
We also question whether there is a link with pregnancy, examine other causes of white discharge, and advise about when to see a doctor.
Vaginal discharge contains dead cells and bacteria, and the process of discharge helps keep the vagina clean and healthy. This cycle has several stages , though the many changes involved often overlap or happen at the same time. The lining of the uterus thickens, in response to changes in hormones, and the body prepares in other ways for a potential pregnancy. Halfway through the cycle, one ovary releases an egg. Ultimately, if the person does not become pregnant, the lining of the uterus sheds, along with the egg: the person has a period.
Discharge may change to become :. For example, decreases in estrogen can cause a person to have less discharge. Factors that can reduce the amounts of estrogen in the body and vaginal discharge include :.
White discharge can be a sign of an infection when it occurs with certain symptoms. Some common infections that may be responsible include:. Sometimes known as BV , this infection can cause:. This common STI can cause:. Normal vaginal discharge has several purposes: cleaning and moistening the vagina, and helping to prevent and fight infections. It's normal for the color, texture, and amount of vaginal discharge to change at different times of the month during a girl's menstrual cycle. But some changes in discharge may mean there is a problem.
For some girls, it's normal to have a lot of vaginal discharge. They may even need to wear a pantiliner to keep their underwear dry. The most effective way to prevent the infection is by using condoms when having sex. White discharge in your underwear before or even after your period is usually no cause for concern. The amount and texture of the discharge can vary — while some women might notice only trace amounts, others may have as much as a teaspoon full.
It is also not always completely white, and it can be creamy or clear, like an egg white. However, if you notice certain symptoms along with your discharge, then you should see your doctor, as it might be a sign of an infection.
If it has a strong odor, or its bright yellow, green or grey, if it's itchy or it causes swelling, burning, or irritation then it might be a sign of an infection," says Yen. World globe An icon of the world globe, indicating different international options. Get the Insider App.
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