Girls going through the menstrual cycle is a normal occurrence through the vaginal pathway or menstrual route. In most cases, white discharge starts about 1-2 years before the onset of menstruation and it usually continues until menopause or permanent cessation of menstruation after a specific age.

When there is a change in the normal quantity, color, or odor of discharge, it can be a cause for concern. In such cases, prompt medical attention is necessary. Due to reluctance to discuss this topic, many people have very little knowledge about it. Consequently, even when unwell, many do not seek medical care. Conversely, some worry about white discharge even when they are healthy.

Why Does White Discharge Occur?

White discharge does not harm the body; instead, it serves two important functions in the female body:

1. Maintaining the Hygiene of the Menstrual Route: It helps keep the menstrual pathway moist and clean.

2. Protecting Against Infections: It provides protection against infections in the menstrual route.

Due to a lack of accurate information about the quantity of discharge, many people worry that excessive white discharge is a sign of health problems. Some believe that excessive white discharge can lead to health issues and weakness. Such notions are entirely unfounded.

How Much White Discharge Is Normal?

The quantity of white discharge can vary from person to person and may also vary at different times for the same individual. This variation is due to difference in hormonal levels in the body.

Typically, a daily discharge of 2 to 5 milliliters of white discharge is considered normal. However, it can occasionally be slightly more or less than this range.

Types of White Discharge

During different phases of the menstrual cycle, the density of white discharge can vary and it can come in different forms. Generally, discharge is thin but occasionally it can be thicker and more mucus like.

At one point in the menstrual cycle, the density of discharge can resemble the white part of an egg. During this time, if you stretch the discharge between your fingers, it won't easily break. Having this kind of discharge during intercourse increases the likelihood of pregnancy.

Normal discharge can primarily have two colors clear and colorless or white like milk. Clear and colorless discharge can take on a white or pale yellow tint when exposed to air. Normal discharge does not have any foul odor.

Excessive White Discharge

Almost everyone has a more or less idea of ​​how much discharge is normal for themselves. It is important to consult a doctor if you start to have more white discharge than what is normal for you.

In the following five scenarios, it is normal to have some extra white discharge:

1. Right before menstruation.
2. During the middle of the menstrual cycle.
3. During pregnancy.
4. During sexual arousal.
5. When using contraceptive pills.

However, if there is a sudden and significant increase in white discharge, it could be a sign of an infection in the menstrual route. If proper treatment is not taken in time infection in other organs including the uterus may occur and various complications may arise due to pregnancy.

Abnormal Discharge

In five specific scenarios of abnormal discharge, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention. This type of discharge can be a sign of an infection even a serious disease like cancer.

1. Cheese-Like White Discharge

In this case, white discharge appears thick and may resemble cottage cheese or yogurt, typically with no noticeable odor. Unusual white discharge like this can be a sign of a fungal infection in the genital area and is sometimes referred to as "yeast infection" by many.

Due to a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in a type of fungus in the genital area, this condition can be seen. For instance, taking antibiotics for some health issues can kill off the good bacteria in the vaginal pathway, allowing the fungus to proliferate. In such cases, you may experience symptoms such as:

2. Excessive white discharge.

Itching and burning in and around the genital area.
Discomfort or pain during urination or sexual intercourse.

Fungal infections in the genital area are not something to fear, as they can be easily treated with prompt medical attention. In such cases, your doctor may prescribe oral medications or topical creams to apply to the affected area. In this case, the doctor may prescribe oral or vaginal medication. This type of fungal infection usually clears up within 1–2 weeks of starting treatment.

However, for some individuals, recurrent infections may occur, such as those with uncontrolled diabetes. So if this problem occurs repeatedly, it is better to check whether diabetes is present or not. Repeated infections may require longer treatment up to 6 months.

3. Gray Discharge

In the case of a specific type of infection in the genital area, you may notice gray or ash-colored discharge. This condition is referred to as "bacterial vaginosis." In such cases, the discharge may have a strong, unpleasant odor, but there is typically no pain or itching.

Changes in the balance of bacteria in the genital area can lead to the disruption of the normal environment, resulting in this condition. While it is not a sexually transmitted disease, having sexual intercourse can increase the risk of developing this condition.

Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis may include:

• Gray or watery discharge.
• A foul, fishy odor, particularly after sexual intercourse.
• Generally, no discomfort or pain, such as itching or burning.

Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics, which can be administered as oral tablets or topical creams or gels to be applied in the vaginal pathway. It is crucial to follow your doctor's advice to choose the most suitable medication for your condition.

It's important to note that bacterial vaginosis may recur, even within 3-6 months after treatment. In such cases, extended treatment may be necessary, sometimes up to six months.

4. Green Discharge

Gonorrhea can cause thick green discharge. Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria cause this disease. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease. Sexual intercourse with an infected person without the protection of a condom can cause the disease.

Common symptoms of gonorrhea may include:

• Pain and burning during urination.
• Lower abdominal pain.
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
• Irregular bleeding between menstrual periods.
• Occasionally, fever and bleeding during sexual intercourse.

It's crucial to seek prompt medical attention if you suspect you have symptoms of gonorrhea. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the reproductive organs and lead to various complications, including fertility problems.

Treatment for gonorrhea typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. Completing the full course of antibiotics is essential to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated. It's also important for sexual partners to be tested and treated if necessary to prevent reinfection.

In addition to receiving medical treatment, practicing safe sex by using barrier methods like condoms can help prevent the transmission of gonorrhea and other STIs.

Please note that the color of discharge may not always be green in gonorrhea; it can also appear yellowish or purulent. If you suspect you have gonorrhea or any other STI, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

5. Greenish-Yellow Discharge

A vaginal infection called 'trichomoniasis' can have a greenish-yellow color. This disease is caused by a type of bacteria called 'Trichomonas vaginalis'. This is also a sexually transmitted infection. Engaging in sexual intercourse with an infected individual without condom protection can lead to contracting this infection. Since the infection is transmitted through sexual contact, it is essential for both partners to seek treatment if diagnosed. Otherwise, even after treatment, reinfection can occur.

Common symptoms of trichomoniasis may include:

• Thick or thin frothy discharge from the genitals.
• An increase in the amount of discharge, which may sometimes have a fishy odor.
• Itching or irritation around the genitals.
• Occasionally, pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
• Redness or swelling of the genital area.

It is possible to completely cure the disease with the help of antibiotic medicine. After the course of antibiotics, retesting should be done to see if the disease is completely cured or not.

Sexual intercourse should be avoided until the disease is cleared. Condom protection should be used to avoid such diseases in the future.

6. Greed Discharge

Vaginal discharge due to greed can sometimes be normal. However, at other times, it can mimic symptoms of severe diseases like infection and cancer. At the beginning of the menstrual cycle, it is normal to have a slightly reddish discharge. This mixes with the blood during menstruation and gives it a reddish tint. Towards the end of the menstrual cycle, it can turn brownish. If this type of reddish discharge occurs before or after menstruation, it is usually considered normal. In such cases, there is usually no need to consult a doctor. However, in other cases, vaginal discharge due to various physical complexities can occur.

 

In the following three cases, if there is vaginal discharge or bleeding, it is advisable to seek immediate consultation with a gynecologist:

1. Vaginal discharge or bleeding without menstruation: This can be one of the symptoms of cervical cancer. Occasionally, it may also occur due to natural reasons, such as the use of birth control pills or vigorous sexual activity. However, it is essential to confirm the underlying cause and, if necessary, initiate prompt medical treatment.

2. Post-coital bleeding: Some minor bleeding may occur in the vaginal canal during sexual intercourse, especially if there is friction during menstruation. However, it can also be due to various infections or, in some cases, be a sign of cervical or vaginal cancer. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor if this symptom is observed.

3. Bleeding or Vaginal Discharge After Menopause: 'Menopause' refers to the permanent cessation of menstruation. It is generally considered to have occurred when women over the age of 45 have not had a period for one year.

Any type of bleeding from the vagina after menopause is a cause for concern. It could be a symptom of uterine or cervical cancer. Additionally, it could be a sign of other issues, such as uterine polyps.

Even if there is only one instance of bleeding or very minimal bleeding in the vagina after menopause, or if the discharge appears pink, brown, or beige and not purely like blood, it is essential to consult a gynecologist.

Cancer, if present, can be best treated when detected early. Ignoring such symptoms is not advisable. If such symptoms occur, it is important to get proper treatment as per the doctor's advice.

Ways to Maintain Vaginal Health

The body has its own ways of keeping the inside of the vagina clean, and there is generally no need for external assistance. In fact, using strongly scented soaps or other products to clean the vagina can actually lead to infections.

So, avoid trying to clean the inside of the vagina separately. Refrain from using special washes or products that are advertised on television for vaginal cleaning.

To keep the vagina healthy and free from bacteria, follow these recommendations:

1. Clean the external genital area and keep it dry. After washing the outer parts of the vagina with plain water and mild soap, make sure to pat it dry thoroughly.

2. Avoid using scented soaps, shower gels, special washes or douches on the vaginal area.

3. Use breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight or synthetic underwear.

4. Change out of wet or damp swimwear promptly.

5. Do not use any antibiotics and antifungals without doctor's advice

6. Have regular visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) tests, as recommended.