Vaginal discharge is fluid that comes out of the vagina. It is actually the body’s natural way of cleaning and keeping the intimate area moist. However, changes in colour, smell, or texture can be a sign of a health problem that needs attention.
Normal and Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Signs of normal discharge:
- Clear to milky white in colour.
- No strong smell.
- No itching, stinging, or pain.
- The amount and thickness change with the menstrual cycle, for example more and slippery during the fertile window.
Signs of abnormal discharge:
- Yellow, green, or greyish in colour.
- A fishy or unpleasant smell.
- Thick and clumpy like cheese, or frothy.
- Accompanied by itching, burning, redness, or pain when urinating or during intercourse.
Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
- Bacterial vaginosis, an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina that is often marked by a fishy smell.
- Yeast infection (Candida), with thick white cheese-like discharge and itching.
- Trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
- Hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy or when using hormonal contraception.
- Antibiotic use, which can disturb the natural balance of vaginal flora.
- Unhelpful habits, such as rinsing inside the vagina (douching), using scented products, or wearing tight, damp underwear.
How to Manage and Prevent Vaginal Discharge
- Wipe the intimate area from front to back after using the toilet.
- Clean only the outer area (vulva) with clean water or a gentle feminine wash. Avoid rinsing inside the vagina.
- Dry the intimate area before putting on underwear.
- Wear cotton underwear and change it at least twice a day, or whenever it feels damp.
- During menstruation, change your pad every 4–6 hours.
- Avoid using scented products or powder on the intimate area.
- If the discharge is caused by an infection, it needs medication based on a doctor’s diagnosis. Do not self-treat with antibiotics.
For daily hygiene, MINOSEP Feminine Hygiene is an antiseptic feminine wash with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate and a geranium blend that can be used to clean the outer intimate area according to the directions for use.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Consult a doctor or gynaecologist promptly if:
- The discharge changes colour, smells, or has an unusual texture.
- It comes with itching, stinging, pelvic pain, or fever.
- It occurs during pregnancy.
- There is bleeding outside your period.
- The discharge keeps coming back even though you maintain good hygiene.
Conclusion
Normal vaginal discharge is part of a healthy intimate area. Know the signs, keep the area clean the right way, and do not delay a check-up if signs of abnormal discharge appear.
This article is for general information only and does not replace consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a doctor or dentist. Use products according to the directions on the packaging.