What Your Vaginal Discharge Is Telling About Your Body

Vaginal discharge is a natural and healthy bodily function that occurs in people with vaginas. It helps to keep the vagina clean and moist, and also helps to prevent infections. However, changes in the color, consistency, and odor of vaginal discharge can be an indication of an underlying health issue. In this article, we will discuss what your vaginal discharge is telling about your body.

What is Vaginal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a mixture of fluid and cells that are shed from the walls of the vagina and cervix. It is normal for people with vaginas to have some amount of vaginal discharge, as it helps to keep the vagina clean and healthy. The amount and consistency of vaginal discharge can vary depending on a person's menstrual cycle, age, and hormonal changes.

Normal Vaginal Discharge

Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear or white and has a slightly sticky or slippery consistency. It may also be odorless or have a mild, musky odor. The amount of discharge can vary from person to person, but it is typically more abundant during ovulation and less so during the menstrual cycle.

Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Changes in the color, consistency, and odor of vaginal discharge can be an indication of an underlying health issue. Abnormal vaginal discharge may be accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, or pain.

Here are some of the common types of abnormal vaginal discharge:

1.Thick, white, or cheesy discharge: This may be a sign of a yeast infection, which is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina. Other symptoms of a yeast infection may include itching, burning, and redness.

2. Gray or green discharge with a foul odor: This may be a sign of bacterial vaginosis, which is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. Other symptoms may include itching, burning, and pain during sex.

3. Yellow or green discharge with a foul odor: This may be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia. Other symptoms may include itching, burning, and pain during urination.

4. Bloody or brown discharge: This may be a sign of cervical cancer, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pain, bleeding after sex, or abnormal bleeding between periods.

When to Seek Medical Attention ?

If you experience any changes in your vaginal discharge, it is important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can perform a pelvic exam and may order tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Early detection and treatment of underlying health issues can help to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

SUMMARY

Vaginal discharge is a normal and healthy bodily function that helps to keep the vagina clean and healthy. However, changes in the color, consistency, and odor of vaginal discharge can be an indication of an underlying health issue. If you experience any changes in your vaginal discharge, it is important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can perform a pelvic exam and may order tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Early detection and treatment of underlying health issues can help to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Jayti Shah is a Clinical Nutritionist with a master's degree in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics. She is a member of the Indian Dietetic Association (IDA). Over the last 9 years, she has helped 400 clients in their clinical and weight loss journeys. She works with SocialBoat as a nutrition consultant.

At SocialBoat, we offer custom diet plans and guided workouts to help you achieve your goals in a 360-degree approach. Our gamified experience ensures that you don’t find workouts boring and we reward you for being consistent with your efforts.