Genital health · For ages 13–17
Vaginal discharge
Vaginal discharge is fluid from the vagina and a normal part of how the body keeps the vagina clean and healthy.
The amount and appearance of vaginal discharge can vary during the menstrual cycle, and it is normal for it to change.
What can normal discharge look like?
Vaginal discharge is fluid from the vagina and cervix. It helps keep the vagina moist and carries away cells. Normal discharge may be clear, white or slightly yellow when it dries in your underwear. The amount and consistency vary.
Look for your own usual pattern rather than comparing it with pictures. Moisture alone does not mean an infection. A change matters more when you also have itching, burning, pain or a noticeably different smell. Tell a healthcare professional about new products, medicines or sexual contact if you seek assessment of these symptoms.
It can change during the menstrual cycle
Around ovulation, discharge may become clearer, more slippery and more stretchy. On other days, it may be thicker or less noticeable.
What can a change in smell tell you?
The genital area has a natural smell from skin, sweat and fluid. A new smell can have several causes, including a change in the balance of bacteria. Smell or colour alone cannot reliably distinguish irritation, a yeast infection and other conditions.
Wash the outside gently and leave the inside of the vagina alone. Avoid perfumed products and douching intended to remove smells. If you have new or persistent symptoms, a healthcare professional can decide whether an examination or tests are needed. Repeatedly treating symptoms yourself can make it more difficult to find the correct explanation.
When should you seek advice?
If your discharge suddenly changes a lot and you also have itching, burning, pain, sores or an unpleasant smell, it is sensible to talk to a healthcare professional.
What next?
Look for changes from what is normal for you
Discharge does not look the same for everyone. What often matters most is whether something has clearly changed or appears together with other symptoms.
Gently wash the outside with lukewarm water. The vagina cleans itself, and you do not need to wash inside it.
Sources
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