Vaginal health is integral for a woman’s body. Keeping the vulva and vagina hygienic is a must to prevent complications and discomfort. Hence it is important for every woman to get to know about their vaginal functions properly. One must not be shy. Thus, to help you enhance your knowledge about it, we have selected a vital topic for today’s article. We will be discussing a very common function of the vagina, i.e., vaginal discharge.
A lot of confusion is brewed around this topic. We are going to clear out that confusion and give you an insight into everything about vaginal fluid discharge. Don’t stop reading if you want a healthy vagina.
WHAT IS VAGINAL DISCHARGE?
Vaginal discharge, also known as cervical mucus, is a fluid that is dispensed from small glands in the cervix and vagina. The colour and odour of this secretion differ from time to time, and so does the amount. It is completely normal and is a self-cleaning function of the vagina. However, certain types of discharge are not normal and can be a sign of an infection. To know more about this, let us dive into the types of vaginal discharge.
TYPES OF VAGINAL DISCHARGE
As mentioned before, there are several types of vaginal discharge that vary in colour and consistency. Below is a list of those different types of cervical mucus which will help you gain a broader perspective.
TRANSLUCENT AND WATERY DISCHARGE:
You have nothing to be worried about when the discharge is clear in colour and is watery. Clear, watery secretion from the vagina is normal and is not a sign of infection. It occurs as a result of hormonal change and can be expected during any time of the month. However, it is often secreted during ovulation.
WHITE DISCHARGE:
White discharge is said to be infertile cervical mucus which means that it is usually dispensed between ovulation and the start of the menstrual cycle. However, if the white discharge is thick and mucus-like, it is an indication of ovulation and fertility. Nonetheless, if this white discharge has a cottage cheese-like consistency and has a bad odour, then it could be a sign of some type of infection. In such a scenario, it is necessary that you consult a doctor.
YELLOW-GREEN DISCHARGE:
A faint yellow like discharge is not an issue, and it could be due to a change in diet. But, if the discharge is a dark yellow hue, it can signify bacterial vaginosis and if it is yellow like green in colour with a chunky consistency and unpleasant smell. In that case, it is said to be a sign of trichomoniasis (an infection that stems out of sexually transmitted disease). You must see a doctor immediately if you’re experiencing this.
PINK DISCHARGE:
Pinkish to reddish and brownish like spotting is normal around the time of a person’s period, and it usually contains a small amount of blood. However, it is also an indication of implantation during early pregnancy.
GREY DISCHARGE:
Grey discharge is not a healthy sign, and it would be best to visit a doctor when you spot any grey discharge promptly. It is a sign of bacterial infection and usually has a fishy odour, and is accompanied by itching and swelling at times.
If you want to enhance your knowledge on more such topics, head to Chhaa Jaa. Chhaa Jaa is Girl Effect’s first youth programme in India to empower adolescent girls through digital media content. Don’t forget to share it with your friends too. Happy Reading!
