It is totally normal to have vaginal discharge – but what does it mean when the consistency or colour changes?
Discharge can vary throughout our cycle. It can be clear or white, thick or sticky and sometimes be slippery and wet. This can all be totally unique to you and it’s important to know when things don’t seem right and to get advice from a health care professional if you feel concerned. Here’s our Parla guide on what your discharge could mean throughout your cycle – and when to seek help.
Dry or no vaginal discharge
What it probably means…
The days immediately after your period can seem like there is little to no discharge. This is often because the estrogen levels are low and are beginning to rise again. You would expect to see vaginal secretions after a few days when the estrogen starts to rise again.
What it could mean…
Having no discharge and feeling dry down below could be because of a change in the hormones and can be very common. Going through the menopause, breastfeeding and taking contraceptives can all be causes of vaginal dryness. Using unperfumed soaps or water-based lubricants can help, but if you feel like it is affecting your day to day life it would be worth seeing your GP.
Sticky, white or creamy vaginal discharge.
What it probably means…
As our bodies prepare to ovulate, the estrogen levels rise and our cervix produces more fluid which can be thick and sticky. It may appear more creamy and wet, similar to a lotion. In a 28 day cycle you may notice this around day 9 or 10.
What it could mean…
If you are experiencing white, thick discharge which looks a bit like cottage cheese it could be a sign of thrush. Thrush can be irritating and unpleasant but it is not normally a cause for concern and can be treated with over the counter medication.
Wet, slippery or stretchy vaginal discharge
What it probably means…
When ovulation approaches the amount of vaginal discharge can increase, making you feel wetter and more slippery. This is due to the water content rising. As estrogen peaks about 1-2 days before ovulation the cervical fluid can look like a raw, egg-white mucus. This is a sign that you are about to ovulate and are in your fertile window.
What it could mean…
A watery, smelly discharge can be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV). Bacterial vaginosis is a common cause of vaginal discharge and is not sexually transmitted. It is caused by a change in the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina. If you feel that you may have BV you should see your GP who can prescribe antibiotic tablets, gels or cream.
Sticky and dry vaginal discharge
What it probably means
After you have ovulated you are in the luteal phase of your cycle and your vaginal discharge is likely to decrease and feel dryer. It becomes thicker and more difficult for sperm to pass through as the progesterone rises and the fluid becomes sticky or tacky or dry.
What could it mean?
As with having no discharge, sticky, dry discharge could be a sign of fluctuating hormones. If you are breastfeeding or going through the menopause there are various vagina-friendly products you can use to ease vaginal dryness, but if you’re still confused by what could be the cause – always consult your doctor.
Everybody is unique— these changes may show up differently for you, or you may experience or interpret them in a different way. If your discharge changes smell, colour or texture – it might be a sign of an infection. But do not self-diagnose – see a GP if you’re worried.
Liz Harrison is a fertility nurse and part of our expert Parla panel. You can contact her through the Parla community – join for free today.
