Vaginal discharge is a normal function of the body. It is the self-cleaning mechanism of the vagina, wherein it cleans itself and keeps itself lubricated. Sometimes, vaginal discharge can also be a symptom of an underlying condition or an infection, particularly when it leaves out a foul odour or is very smelly. It could lead to vaginal itching and vaginal pain.
Due to these conditions, women seek vaginal itching treatment and vaginal pain treatment from an expert gynaecologist in London. So, let us check out the different types of vaginal discharge, their causes and their treatment methods.
Vaginal discharge types
You can experience different types of vaginal discharge. It may vary depending on your menstrual cycle. Plus, other additional reasons could also affect the type of vaginal discharge, such as physiological changes or medical treatments. More often, vaginal discharge is an indication of an underlying infection or undetected diseases. So, let us discuss the types of vaginal discharge and what they indicate.
White discharge
White discharge or its different shades are often considered a normal vaginal discharge. This type of discharge happens as the menstrual cycle ends or during ovulation. If you don’t experience itching, odour or burning sensation while the discharge happens, then it is a normal discharge. However, if the vaginal discharge is clumpy like cottage cheese and stingy, then it may be a symptom of yeast infection. This discharge is usually followed by itching and burning, which generally happens due to fungal outgrowth. If the discharge gives out a fishy odour, then you could be suffering from bacterial vaginosis or BV. Further symptoms of BV include sensations of burning and itching during urination.
Brown discharge
It is normal to experience a brown or bloody discharge during your periods. The late discharge which happens during the ending of your periods is mainly brown in colour rather than red. Sometimes you may experience small quantities of red or brown discharge between your periods. This is commonly called spotting. Such spotting could also be an indication of pregnancy if the woman had unprotected sex and has missed her periods. Any kind of spotting at the time of early pregnancy could also be an indication of miscarriage. Among the different types of discharge, spotting should not be ignored. If you experience such spotting between your cycles, then you must consult a private gynaecologist in London.
Watery and clear discharge
A watery and clear discharge is very normal and may happen at any moment. It may happen more after an exercise routine. This is a normal vaginal discharge type and rarely indicates an underlying problem.
Stretchy discharge
If the discharge is mucus-like but stretchy and clear, then it is a normal discharge as well. This type of discharge means that the woman is ovulating. Among the types of vaginal discharge, this one is directly linked to the fertility window.
Yellow discharge
If the woman experiences yellow discharge, but it is odourless and is not accompanied by any further symptoms, then this discharge is normal. In a few cases, it could be an indication of sexually transmitted infection or bacterial infection.
Causes of vaginal discharge
A normal vaginal discharge for the vagina is an indication that the body is functioning normally. Vaginal discharge is the self-cleaning mechanism of the vagina to maintain the appropriate environment inside the vagina. This discharge is a healthy mix of the hormone and the pH balance, which has to be maintained for the proper functioning of the organs of the reproductive system. However, in some cases, vaginal discharge is not normal. It could then be a sign of an underlying ailment or condition and needs medical intervention. The causes include:
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is an infection caused by the single-celled microorganism called a protozoan. This infection is spread via sexual contact. It can even spread through common bathing suits or common towels. This infection causes yellow or green discharge that has a foul odour. The common symptoms include inflammation, itching and pain.
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis or BV is a bacterial infarction caused within the vagina. This infection usually happens through sexual intercourse. This infection increases the production of vaginal discharge, and the discharge has a very strong foul and fishy odour. Women who have multiple sex partners, as well as those women who indulge in oral sex, have a high chance of acquiring this infection.
Yeast infection, gonorrhoea, chlamydia
The yeast infection could cause a white cheese kind of discharge, followed by burning and itching. Pregnancy, diabetes, stress, antibiotics and birth control pills could cause a yeast infection. Gonorrhoea and chlamydia are classified as sexually transmitted infections. Such conditions could be identified by their vaginal discharge. They generally cause a cloudy yellow or green discharge.
Cervical cancer or HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
The infection called HPV occurs due to unprotected sex. This infection has the potential to cause cervical cancer. In the case of cancer, the woman experiences a brown watery or bloody discharge that has a bad odour. A pap smear test could detect the condition.
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease is a kind of infection which is spread through unprotected sex. This infection produces a heavy discharge followed by a foul smell.
Vaginal discharge treatment
Over-the-counter medications can treat the general form of infections and the resultant vaginal discharge. Consult your gynaecologist to get a prescription before buying the medicines from the counter for your vaginal pain treatment.
Vaginal discharge is common among women who make use of douches or hygiene rinsers, panty liners, powders or sprays, tight clothing or scented bath essentials. To prevent unwanted vaginal discharge, you should limit yourself to using unscented bath essentials in the genital region. Avoid douching, hot water bath, scented wipes or scented toilet paper. Wear cotton undergarments to ensure proper circulation of air.
Every woman should know about the different types of vaginal discharge, and their causes to seek the right vaginal itching treatment and vaginal discharge treatment from a gynaecologist in London.
If you want more information about vaginal pain treatment, then you must visit the Well Women Clinic today.
FAQ’s About Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is a fluid released from the vagina that helps clean and protect it. It’s a natural process and part of the body’s self-cleaning mechanism. Changes in discharge can indicate hormonal shifts, infections, or other conditions.
Normal discharge is usually clear or white, thin to slightly sticky, and without a strong odour. It can vary during the menstrual cycle, becoming stretchy around ovulation and lighter after periods.
The main types of vaginal discharge include white, clear, brown, yellow, and stretchy mucus-like discharge. Each may be normal vaginal discharge or indicate infection depending on symptoms.
Yes. White discharge is usually normal, especially during ovulation or at the end of your period. If it becomes thick, clumpy, or causes itching, it could be a yeast infection.
Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear, watery, or white and does not have a foul smell. Any discharge with strong odour, unusual colour, or discomfort may need medical attention.
The different types of discharge occur due to hormonal changes, infections, pregnancy, or underlying conditions. Monitoring changes helps in identifying what’s normal and when to see a doctor.
The most common 5 types of vaginal discharge are:
- White discharge
- Clear watery discharge
- Stretchy/egg-white discharge (linked to ovulation)
- Brown discharge (linked to old blood/periods)
- Yellow discharge (can be normal or indicate infection)
Most women have vaginal discharge daily as part of the body’s natural cycle. It helps keep the vagina clean and lubricated. If the discharge changes in colour, smell, or consistency, it could be linked to infection or hormonal changes.
Normal vaginal discharge is typically clear or white. Brown discharge usually relates to old blood, while yellow or green may indicate infection. Paying attention to discharge colour helps in knowing when to seek medical advice.
