Vaginal secretions are a normal phenomenon. It can be heavy and leave traces in your panties. It changes during the menstrual cycle and throughout a woman's life at important times such as pregnancy and menopause.
Let's take a look at the types of vaginal discharge and what they mean.
What causes vaginal discharge?
So what causes vaginal discharge? Vaginal discharge is directly related to hormones. The appearance, texture, quantity and smell of discharge changes during the menstrual cycle and varies with hormone peaks.
Cervical mucus is secreted by the cervix. Stimulated during ovulation, it becomes more abundant and transparent, which facilitates the ascent of the spermatozoa towards the cervix. After ovulation, under the influence of progesterone, it becomes more viscous and less abundant.
The white discharge, on the other hand, consists mainly of dead cells in the walls of the vagina which are constantly regenerating. It can leave traces in the underwear in a completely normal way. It helps to maintain the balance of the vaginal flora.
Types of vaginal discharge and their colors
Vaginal discharge changes throughout the menstrual cycle, during which they can take different forms, colors and smells. Here are the most common ones:
White vaginal discharge
White discharge is common. Its main role is to clean and lubricate the vagina by removing dead cells and microbial debris.
Sometimes white discharge can be smelly. This may be due to an imbalance in the intimate flora. Several leading contributors to this problem have been identified:
- Excessive intimate hygiene, inappropriate intimate hygiene, douching
- Hormonal variations (pregnancy, contraception, low-dose pill, intra-uterine device, menopause)
- Smoking
- Taking antibiotics or antiseptics
Yellow vaginal discharge
Yellow vaginal discharge can be both healthy and abnormal. Initially, the main discharge is clear and white. But when it comes into contact with the air, it can turn creamy or even yellow. A small amount of blood can also darken the colour of the vaginal discharge. This is usually the case just before your period arrives. There is no reason to be concerned about a yellowish discharge if there are no other symptoms.
However, if the discharge tends to turn green, it may suggest an STI (sexually transmitted infection) called Trichomonas vaginitis. In this case, the discharge is heavy and foamy. It is foul smelling and may be accompanied by a feeling of irritation when urinating and during sex.
Pink vaginal discharge
A few days before the first day of menstruation, a few drops of blood may mix with the vaginal discharge and stain it slightly. This pink discharge may also appear at the time of ovulation or after sexual intercourse.
Brown vaginal discharge
A few days after the last day of the menstrual period, the vaginal discharge may change color and turn brown or dark brown. This is a normal natural phenomenon and is due to blood oxidising in the uterus. The blood is discharged with the normal vaginal discharge and forms a brown or very dark mixture.
Do you have thick or foul-smelling vaginal discharge?
The amount of discharge varies from woman to woman. It is usually stink free and does not cause pain, irritation or burning. When they appear unusually thick and/or smelly, they may be a sign of infection or imbalance, and you need to act accordingly.
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