Clear or milky white discharge without a strong smell is normal and changes through the cycle. Green, grey, frothy or foul-smelling discharge, or discharge with itching or burning, should be assessed by a doctor.
Vaginal discharge is a normal and healthy function. It is how the vagina cleans and protects itself, and every woman has some. Its amount, colour and texture naturally change through the menstrual cycle.
In this guide, Op. Dr. Ayşet Jane Özcan explains what normal discharge looks like, what different colours can indicate, and which changes mean you should see a doctor.
What Is Normal Discharge?
Normal discharge is clear or milky white, has no strong odour, and does not cause itching, burning or soreness. The quantity varies a great deal from person to person, and there is a wide healthy range.
Through the cycle it changes predictably: sparse and thicker just after a period, then clearer, wetter and stretchy around ovulation, becoming thicker again afterwards. Pregnancy and hormonal contraception can also increase the amount.
Discharge Colours and What They Suggest
Colour alone does not make a diagnosis, but it does offer useful clues:
- Clear and stretchy: typical of the fertile window around ovulation
- Milky white with no odour: normal
- Thick, white and clumpy with itching: suggests thrush (a yeast infection)
- Grey and thin with a fishy odour: associated with bacterial vaginosis
- Yellow or green, frothy or foul-smelling: needs assessment for infection
- Brown: usually old blood, common just before or after a period
- Pink: discharge mixed with a small amount of fresh blood
Brown or pink discharge is often harmless, but if it happens repeatedly outside your period it should be checked.
Signs That Suggest an Infection
What accompanies the discharge matters as much as its colour. Itching, burning, soreness, pain when passing urine, pain during intercourse, redness or swelling all raise the likelihood of an infection.
A sudden change in smell, a marked increase in volume, or a clear change in colour are also worth having assessed. Most of these conditions respond quickly to straightforward treatment.
How It Is Assessed
Assessment starts with a discussion of your symptoms and a gynaecological examination. If needed, a sample (a swab) is taken and examined under a microscope or cultured to identify what is causing the change.
Getting the diagnosis right matters, because thrush and bacterial vaginosis need different treatments. Treating yourself with over-the-counter products without knowing the cause can mask the picture and delay the right treatment.
Looking After Vaginal Health
The vagina cleans itself, so douching (washing inside the vagina) is not recommended. It disrupts the natural balance of bacteria and can actually increase the risk of infection. Washing the external area with warm water is enough.
Cotton underwear, avoiding very tight clothing, skipping perfumed hygiene products, and not staying in damp swimwear or gym clothes for long all help maintain a healthy balance.
When to See a Doctor
Book an appointment if the colour, smell or amount of your discharge changes noticeably, or if you have itching, burning or pain. Discharge accompanied by bleeding between periods should always be assessed.
Op. Dr. Ayşet Jane Özcan diagnoses and treats vaginal infections in Bahçelievler, Istanbul, with an individual, evidence-based approach. You are welcome to book an appointment.
References
This article was prepared with reference to the following independent health sources.
- NHS. Vaginal discharge
