Your vaginal discharge is a major indicator of your health status. While some misleading social media posts might have made you believe that squeaky-clean underwears without any vaginal discharge are proof of a healthy vagina, the reality is quite the opposite. A moderate amount of vaginal discharge is absolutely normal and a part and parcel of our daily life. In fact, it signals that your vagina is in the pink of health and you shouldn’t be worried about it. However, not all “types of vaginal discharge” are healthy. Confused? Read on for clarity.
Types Of Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge may or may not be normal depending on its colour, texture, frequency, odour, and intensity. Let’s discuss the different types of vaginal discharge and what they might be indicative of:
“Normal” Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is usually harmless and is a result of your vagina’s self-cleansing mechanism. It is translucent white with a mucus-like texture and may have very mild to no odour. You can experience a small amount of it almost every day and it indicates that all’s well with your vagina’s automated cleansing mode.
Egg-White
Your vaginal discharge may become thicker, opaque, and egg-whitish in colour around your due period date or during ovulation (in the middle of the menstrual cycle). Again, it’s nothing to worry about and happens due to hormonal changes in the body. Closer to your ovulation date, egg-white vaginal discharge may be indicative of a fertile period.
Red Vaginal Discharge
Red vaginal discharge is a monthly occurrence and marks the start of your period. Minor spotting between periods is also usually a result of a hormonal change due to factors like stress, excess physical activity, sudden dietary changes, birth control pills, or hormonal changes. But if your periods are otherwise healthy and on time, managing stress better can reduce spotting. However, regular red vaginal discharge between periods, intense menstrual cramps, and heavy bleeding during periods can be due to endometriosis (a condition where the uterine lining grows outside the uterus). Additionally, if you’re pregnant and notice any red vaginal discharge, you must consult with your doc immediately as it can be due to a miscarriage.
Brown Vaginal Discharge
It is common to notice brown vaginal discharge three-four days post shark week. It is nothing but the oxidised blood and the last remains of the uterine lining mixed with cervical mucus. However, regular brown spotting could be due to benign fibroid or endometrial cancer.
Green Vaginal Discharge
Green vaginal discharge is a sure-shot indicator of the fact that something is not quite right. It is usually due to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) called trichomoniasis and may be accompanied by symptoms like vaginal itching, irritation or fever. Trichomoniasis can be treated easily with the right medication but one must seek timely treatment for it.
Cottage-Cheese-Like Vaginal Discharge
A thicker, curdled white vaginal discharge is usually the result of a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis (BV). It may be accompanied by symptoms like vaginal itching and a burning sensation especially while peeing. Several STIs can also have similar symptoms and may be to blame for a cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge. The best way to find out is through a thorough diagnosis by your gynaecologist.
Milky Grey Vaginal Discharge
BV can also cause milky grey discharge with a fishy odour. In this case, the odour keeps getting stronger with time. BV can also cause vaginal irritation and itching and make you more prone to contracting an STI.
Sirona Recommends Best Products To Manage Normal Vaginal Discharge
Sirona Dry Comfort Panty Liners
These panty liners are made with breathable material and are super handy when it comes to managing vaginal discharge and spotting. They’re ultra-thin, extremely soft and keep you fresh all day long.
Sirona Intimate Wipes
Packed with plant and fruit extracts, these intimate wipes are a saviour when you feel damp and uncomfortable down there while on the go. You can simply toss one out of the pack and clean up your genital area in a jiffy. They’re hypoallergenic, alcohol-free, and extremely gentle on the sensitive skin down there.
Sirona Refreshing Intimate Wash
Made with natural ingredients like Tasmanian pepper fruit, this intimate wash is gentle on the skin. You can use it to clean your intimate area once or twice a day to stay comfy and fresh all day long.
Sirona Antibacterial Period Stain Remover
This product removes period stains and germs from your underwear and lowers. However, you can use it to sanitise your undies whenever you notice any discharge on them. It’s easy on the fabrics and helps keep those fancy panties clean and fresh.
Although odourless, translucent vaginal discharge is healthy. However, in case of any colour or texture changes, you must consult with your doc immediately.
Featured Image: Pexels
Also Read
Things You Should Know About Your Vaginal Health: Get to know what’s good for your vagina and what’s not in detail.
Types Of Vaginal Discharge: Here’s more info on the types of vaginal discharge and what they indicate.
Myths About Vagina: Don’t believe everything you hear. Believing these myths about vagina can spell doom for your vaginal health.
Tips To Take Care Of Your Vagina: Happy vagina=good overall health. Here’s how to take care of your vag.
Fun Facts About Your Vagina: Some fun facts about Ms Vayjaay you prolly didn’t know.
