Vaginal discharge is fluid that contains a mix of vaginal secretions and cervical mucus. The amount of vaginal discharge produced varies from woman to woman but is often normal and healthy. Pregnancy, changing hormones, or the presence of an infection can also affect the consistency and amount of vaginal discharge. Usually, vaginal discharge starts after a girl gets her first menstrual period and has several functions. It naturally keeps the vagina clean, provides lubrication during sexual intercourse, and may help prevent infection.
5 Types of Vaginal Discharge and What They Mean - UnityPoint Health
Vaginal discharge is fluid that flows through the vagina to keep it clean and moist and to prevent infection. Healthy discharge is usually mucus-like and has no smell. It may be clear or milky white. In some cases, it can be sticky and have a thicker texture. These characteristics can change, according to the phases of the menstrual cycle. However, if discharge suddenly takes on an unusual smell, color, or texture, this may signal an infection. This is especially true if vaginal or vulvar irritation, pain, or itching accompanies the discharge.
What does it mean when you have a lot of clear watery discharge?
Burris describes vaginal discharge as fluid released by glands in the vagina and cervix. The fluid carries dead cells and bacteria out of the body, and vaginal discharge helps keep the vagina clean and prevent infection. Burris also says normal vaginal discharge varies in amount and ranges in color from clear to milky, white discharge. Discharge may have a slight odor as well, although a foul, fishy odor is a sign of an infection.
While normal vaginal discharge tends to range from sticky and milky white to watery and clear, abnormal discharge tends to have an unusual appearance, texture, or odor and is often accompanied by itching or discomfort. Implantation occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the wall of your uterus, typically 10 days to 2 weeks after sexual intercourse. This might stimulate pink or orange discharge.