Introduction

White vaginal discharge is a mixture of fluid and cells that come out of the vagina. This discharge also tends to indicate what stage of the menstrual cycle your body is going through and whether you are pregnant.

Why does the white discharge occur?

Having white discharge shows that your vaginal health is perfect. However, you may experience changes in your white discharge during your menstrual cycle. But these changes are not an alarming cause in most cases. Instead, it is a signal from your vagina that everything is healthy and working well.

Women experience white discharge due to their reproductive hormones. It tends to cause changes in your discharge throughout the menstrual cycle, even during pregnancy. These discharges tend to help keep your vaginal tissues moist and lubricated.

The white discharge also helps to act as natural lubrication for your vagina to keep bacteria, germs, and dirt out of the cavity. Thus, also a way for your body to maintain the pH balance of your vagina.

However, your white discharge may undergo some changes that may indicate an underlying problem.

Read on further to know about what kind of white discharge is normal and when you need to seek a doctor’s guidance.

White Discharge is Thick

Throughout women’s menstrual cycle, they may experience changes in the consistency and colour of their white discharge. When they experience a thick white discharge indicates that their body is going through the ovulation period that releases eggs from their ovaries.

White Discharge is Milky

Your body tends to produce a watery discharge which may look like egg whites while preparing for ovulation. However, this white discharge is often thinner in consistency, odourless and causes no discomfort.

This milky white discharge is often a sign of your body preparing for ovulation. However, there are chances of it being an early sign of showing that you are pregnant.

Also, during pregnancy, you may experience clear or milky and odourless discharge.

White Discharge is Clumpy

If your white discharge tends to be clumpy like cottage cheese consistency, it is often a sign of yeast infection. It causes your vaginal area to experience burning, itchiness and redness. However, it is not a cause to worry about as vaginal infections are common and can be easily treated.

White Discharge is Thick and Sticky

You may experience thick white and sticky discharge when you are not ovulating. However, as you get closer to ovulation, it will slowly thin out into a clear, milky colour. This discharge is a sign of a healthy vagina and menstrual cycle. In addition, it tends to act as a barrier to protect your cervix from infection.

When to Seek Help from a Gynaecologist

Women must seek help from a healthcare provider if they notice something unusual in their white discharge. These unusual discharges are usually thick, white and chunky in texture. That is often a signal of infection, and you need to immediately see your healthcare provider or gynaecologist.

The Bottom Line

Vaginal discharge is considered a natural body process throughout your menstrual cycle. However, it is advisable to keep an eye on anything unusual if it happens. Also, seek medical attention from your lady doctor if you notice any infections that can affect the colour, texture and even the smell of the discharge.