“Is my discharge normal?” It is a question many women ask themselves but rarely say out loud. In most cases, vaginal discharge is a healthy part of how the body protects the vagina. Sometimes, though, a change in colour, smell or amount may point to an infection that needs treatment.
Here is how to tell the difference, and when it is time to see a gynaecologist.
What Is Vaginal Discharge?
Glands in the cervix and vaginal walls release a small amount of fluid every day. This fluid flushes out old cells, keeps the area moist and helps defend against germs. Healthy bacteria in the vagina also help, by keeping conditions slightly acidic so that harmful organisms find it harder to grow.
What Does Normal Vaginal Discharge Look Like?
Healthy discharge is usually clear or milky white. It may be thin and slippery on some days and creamier on others. A faint smell is common, and it should not itch or sting.
Discharge also shifts with your hormones. Around ovulation, it often turns clear and stretchy, a bit like raw egg white, and there may be noticeably more of it. In the week before a period, it tends to become thicker and whiter.
So, white vaginal discharge on its own is usually nothing to worry about. Watery vaginal discharge can also be perfectly normal, especially mid-cycle.
Signs of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Changes worth a closer look include:
- Discharge that turns yellow, green or grey
- A smell that is strong, sour or fishy
- A texture that becomes lumpy, frothy or unusually thick
- Itching, stinging or soreness around the vulva
- Pain when you pass urine or have sex
- Excessive vaginal discharge, where you need a liner every day when you did not before
What Different Types of Discharge May Mean
Colour and smell cannot confirm a diagnosis on their own. They can, however, point a doctor in the right direction.
Thick White Discharge with Itching
Vaginal discharge and itching together, especially when the discharge is thick, white and lumpy like cottage cheese, is a common sign of vaginal thrush. Thrush is a yeast infection, usually caused by Candida, and may also cause redness and burning.
Vaginal thrush is not considered a sexually transmitted infection. Antibiotics, pregnancy, poorly controlled diabetes and tight clothing can increase your risk. Long, humid days in Singapore and time spent in damp gym wear or swimsuits may also give yeast a chance to grow.
Thin Grey or White Discharge with a Fishy Smell
A fishy vaginal discharge often points to bacterial vaginosis (BV). This happens when other bacteria outnumber the healthy ones. The smell is often more noticeable after sex or during your period.
BV does not usually cause itching. It is not classed as an STI, but it is more common in women who are sexually active. Douching can increase the risk, as it upsets this balance.
Yellow or Green Discharge
Pale yellow discharge can sometimes be normal, particularly when it dries on underwear. However, yellow vaginal discharge that is darker, thicker or has an odour may be a sign of infection. Green vaginal discharge is not normal and should always be checked.
Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, may cause frothy yellow-green discharge with a strong smell and discomfort when passing urine. Gonorrhoea can also cause yellow or green discharge.
Smelly Vaginal Discharge
Smelly vaginal discharge is most often linked to BV or trichomoniasis. A very strong, foul smell can also be caused by a forgotten tampon. If you suspect this, see a doctor promptly.
Vaginal Discharge After Sex
It is normal to notice more discharge after sex. However, a fishy smell after sex may suggest BV, as frequent sexual activity is associated with alterations in vaginal pH and reduction of protective lactobacilli. Sexual arousal increases vaginal fluid which is a normal physiologic lubrication response, but new or unusual discharge after a new sexual partner could be a sign of an STI. Bleeding after sex should always be checked by a doctor.
Vaginal Discharge and STI Symptoms
Some sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis, can change your discharge. Other STI symptoms may include:
- Pain or burning when passing urine
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Sores, blisters or lumps in the genital area
Many STIs cause no symptoms, so regular sexual health screening is important if you are sexually active.
Recurrent Vaginal Discharge
Recurrent vaginal discharge can be frustrating. Recurrent thrush is generally defined as four or more episodes within a year, and BV can also come back after it has been treated. A gynaecologist can help find out why.
When Should You See a Gynaecologist?
You should arrange a consultation if you have:
- Discharge that changes in colour, smell or texture
- Discharge with pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause
- Symptoms that do not improve after treatment or keep returning
- Possible exposure to an STI
Seek medical care promptly if your discharge comes with a fever or severe pelvic pain, or if you are pregnant.
Vaginal Health Care at Eden Women’s Health
Discharge can feel like an awkward thing to raise. At Eden Women’s Health, you can talk through your symptoms in a calm, private setting.
Dr Sheri Lim has cared for women for more than 20 years and sees patients with vaginal infections, recurring symptoms and other sexual health concerns. If you need a gynaecologist in Singapore to look into changes in your discharge, book an appointment with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to have vaginal discharge every day?
Yes. Most women have some discharge daily. It only needs checking if it looks or smells different from usual, or if it itches or hurts.
Can vaginal discharge increase during pregnancy?
Often, yes. Many pregnant women notice more thin, white, mild-smelling discharge. Speak to your obstetrician if it changes colour, smells unpleasant or causes itching. If you notice a sudden gush or steady trickle of watery fluid, contact your obstetrician or hospital straight away, as this may be amniotic fluid.
Can I treat vaginal thrush at home?
Over-the-counter antifungal treatments may help if thrush has been diagnosed before and you recognise the symptoms. If this is your first episode, symptoms keep returning or you are pregnant, see a doctor first.
How is abnormal vaginal discharge treated?
That depends on what is causing it, so your doctor may first take a quick swab during a gentle examination. Thrush usually clears with antifungal medicine. BV and trichomoniasis need antibiotics, and if an STI is found, your partner may need treating too.