Vaginal Discharge: What's normal and When to Seek Advice

Vaginal discharge is a natural part of the female reproductive system and reflects the way the vagina keeps itself clean and protected. Its appearance changes with hormones, age and sexual activity.

What Healthy Discharge Looks Like

Throughout the menstrual cycle, cervical mucus shifts in response to hormonal changes:

• After a period
  Often minimal, thicker or slightly cloudy.
• Around ovulation
  Clear, stretchy and slippery, similar to raw egg white. This assists sperm movement.
• Before a period
  Creamier or thicker in texture.

Pregnancy can increase moisture due to higher hormone levels. Sexual arousal also leads to a clear, slippery fluid that acts as natural lubrication. After menopause, reduced oestrogen commonly causes dryness and thinner discharge.

As long as discharge remains comfortable, without strong odour, itching or pain, these variations are considered normal.

What Can Cause Changes in Discharge

Although changes often reflect natural hormonal shifts, certain conditions may alter the smell, colour or texture:

• Yeast (thrush)
  Thick white discharge with itching, redness or burning.
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
  Grey or thin discharge with a noticeable fishy odour.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
  Some STIs can cause yellow, green or pus-like discharge. Many infections cause no symptoms, so testing is important if risk exists.

When to Seek Medical Advice

It is recommended to speak with a healthcare professional if you experience:

• A sudden or persistent change in colour, odour or consistency
• Itching, burning, irritation or swelling
• Pelvic pain or pain during sex
• Painful or uncomfortable urination
• Bleeding between periods or after sex
• Symptoms following a new sexual partner
• Concern about possible infection or pregnancy

A clinician can take a history, perform an examination if required, and arrange appropriate testing or treatment.

If you are unsure whether your symptoms are normal, you can speak with one of our online doctors for personalised advice through a confidential telehealth consultation