Is My Vaginal Discharge Normal?

Every woman has some vaginal discharge, but if you notice changes in this discharge, it could be a sign of a problem.  Read on the find out what kinds of discharge are normal, and which are potential causes for concern.

White discharge
White discharge is common at the beginning and end of your menstrual cycle.  This kind of discharge is usually thick, and itching shouldn’t be present.  Most white discharge is normal, but if you’re experience itching or other unusual vaginal symptoms, there could be a problem.  White discharge that seems even thicker than usual and has a cottage cheese like texture can indicate a yeast infection.

Clear discharge
Clear vaginal discharge is the most common and healthy type of discharge.  If clear discharge seems thick or mucous-like, it usually indicates ovulation. This is the most fertile time of your cycle, so if you’re trying to get pregnant, keep a watch out for this thick, clear discharge.  Clear, watery discharge is just regular discharge that can occur at different times throughout your cycle.  It’s sometimes particularly heavy after exercise.

Yellow or green discharge
These are most problematic kinds of discharge and require immediate attention.  Yellow or green discharge almost always indicates an infection of some kind.  Yellow discharge with a cottage cheese texture can be a sign of a yeast infection, although discharge from yeast infections is typically white.  Green discharge, especially if it’s grayish green, may be a sign of an STD called trichomoniasis.  If you notice vaginal discharge that appears to be yellow, green, or grayish green, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Brown discharge
Brown discharge is normal if it occurs at the beginning or end of your period.  Old blood appears brown, and brown spotting at the end of the period is just your vagina cleaning itself out.  Brown spotting may happen when ovulating or mid-cycle.  It can also be an early sign of pregnancy.  Discharge of this color rarely indicates a problem but if it happens at an unusual time, you may want to take a pregnancy test.

What to do about unusual discharge
Discharge is often the vagina’s way of telling us something.  If you notice any unexpected changes in discharge, particularly if it lasts more than a day or two and is accompanied by any other symptoms e.g. a smelly vagina, you should see a doctor.  They’ll be able to determine whether the change in discharge is a cause for concern, a sign of pregnancy, or just a harmless oddity.  As long as you keep your vagina clean and healthy, you shouldn’t have any problems with abnormal vaginal discharge.