We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Vaginal discharge is most often a normal and regular occurrence. However, there are certain types of discharge that can indicate an infection. Abnormal discharge may be yellow or green, chunky in consistency, or foul smelling.
Everything You Need to Know About Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge color guide: Causes and when to see a doctor
Clue is on a mission to help you understand your body, periods, ovulation, and so much more. Start tracking today. Vaginal discharge is common, and will vary throughout your menstrual cycle. Unusual or atypical vaginal discharge differs in color, consistency, smell or quantity compared to your usual discharge. Unusual vaginal discharge may be a symptom of a bacterial imbalance, an infection or an STI, or in rare cases, cervical cancer.
This content cannot be displayed without JavaScript. Please enable JavaScript and reload the page. Abnormal discharge is often associated with vulvar pruritus or pain with intercourse dyspareunia , or painful or difficult urination dysuria or lower abdominal pain. Routinely check for abnormal vaginal discharge in women presenting with these symptoms.
Do you know the difference between normal vaginal discharge and abnormal vaginal discharge? Having discharge is a natural part of having a vagina, but sometimes changes in it can signal a problem. The basic function of your vagina is to provide a route from the outside of your vagina to your uterus and the rest of your internal reproductive system. The natural, acidic, pH of your vagina acts to prevent infections and is caused by natural, good, bacteria present in your vagina.