Genital health · For ages 13–17
How can I tell whether my vaginal discharge is normal?
Vaginal discharge is fluid from the vagina and a normal bodily function. Its amount, colour and consistency can change through the menstrual cycle.
What happens?
Vaginal discharge is fluid from the vagina
The vagina naturally produces fluid that helps maintain a healthy environment. This fluid is called vaginal discharge.
Normal discharge may be clear, white or slightly yellowish, and it may be thin, creamy or more mucus-like. Around ovulation, it may become clearer and more stretchy.
What often matters most is whether something has suddenly changed from what is usual for you, particularly if you also develop itching, burning, pain or a clearly unpleasant smell.
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Which describes what you have noticed?
Choose the option that fits best to see guidance on what you can do next.
It is common for discharge to change in amount and consistency across the menstrual cycle.
Fluid from the vagina and cervix may vary from clear and slippery to whiter or thicker throughout the cycle. Fluid that dries in your underwear may appear yellower than it did when wet.
Discharge without other symptoms usually needs no treatment. Wash the outside gently and avoid washing inside the vagina. Notice new changes together with itching, burning, pain or a different smell.
A clear change accompanied by smell, itching, burning or pain is worth having assessed.
Describe what is new for you: amount, smell, colour or other symptoms. Neither colour nor smell alone can provide a certain explanation.
An assessment may consider irritation, changes in bacterial balance or possible infection. Mention new products and any sexual contact so that advice and testing are appropriate to your situation.
There may be several causes. If symptoms last, are severe or keep returning, a healthcare professional can help find the cause.
Fungal infections and other conditions may produce overlapping symptoms. With a first episode or an uncertain cause, an assessment is preferable to trying several different treatments in succession.
Explain where it itches or burns and what products you have used. If you also have a fever or severe pain low in your tummy, you need more urgent medical assessment.
What can you do now?
Notice what has changed, whether you have other symptoms and how long it has been going on.
Wash the outside gently with lukewarm water. You do not need to wash inside the vagina.
Find the words you need
Create a short message you can say, show or send to someone you trust, a school nurse or a doctor.
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