Let’s be real—talking about vaginal discharge can feel a little awkward. But the truth is, it’s a normal part of having a vagina. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether what you’re seeing is normal or something to be concerned about, you’re not the only one. Discharge is your body’s natural way of keeping things clean and balanced. Of course, visible changes to color, odor, or texture can occasionally be an indication that something’s wrong.
Normally, healthy vaginal discharge is clear, whitish, or creamy. It may be watery and slippery or thicker and more pasty—both are normal. This liquid is a blend of cells, mucus, sweat, oils, and healthy bacteria, all contributing toward keeping your vagina healthy, lubricated, and infection-free. You may find that your discharge varies during your cycle—it tends to get thinner and clearer at around ovulation, and thicker just before your period.
When you’re pregnant, you may notice more discharge than normal because it acts as a barrier against infection. Postmenopause, discharge tends to diminish due to decreased estrogen, but having a little is still absolutely fine.
Then, when should you take greater notice? If your discharge suddenly changes color—particularly green, yellow, or gray—and/or has a really strong, unpleasant, fishy odor, that’s something to pay attention to. Discharge that resembles cottage cheese, is frothy, or is accompanied by itching, burning, pain, or irritation may indicate an infection or that something else is happening. You should also check in with your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing other symptoms like pelvic pain, fever, sores or blisters, pain during sex, or spotting between periods.
There are several common reasons why discharge might change. Yeast infections, caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, usually come with thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese, along with itching or soreness.
Bacterial vaginosis (or BV) occurs when the pH of bacteria in the vagina is out of balance, frequently resulting in gray or white thin discharge with a pungent, fishy odor. Sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis may also alter the color of discharge—yellow, green, or frothy—and may be accompanied by burning or pain upon urination.
All changes aren’t caused by an infection, however. Occasionally, irritation from scented soaps, detergents, sprays, or even a forgotten tampon can disrupt things. Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or after menopause, can also alter the quantity and consistency of discharge.
If it doesn’t feel right, don’t brush it off. It’s always wise to check with a healthcare provider if you experience changes that make you worried. They might ask about your symptoms, do a pelvic exam, and possibly take a sample of the discharge to figure out what’s going on. The good news is that most causes of abnormal discharge can be treated, usually with antibiotics or antifungal meds, depending on what’s causing the problem.
Taking care of your vaginal health doesn’t have to be complicated. Skip perfumed items such as soaps, sprays, or douches—they can play havoc with the body’s natural balance of bacteria. Wash only with water or mild, perfume-free soap, wear loose-fitting cotton underwear, and attempt to change out of wet clothes as soon as you can. Wearing condoms during sex and wiping yourself front-to-back when using the bathroom are also preventive measures. And if you have diabetes, managing your blood sugar can reduce your risk of vaginal infections.
Ultimately, vaginal discharge isn’t just normal—it’s a sign that your body is working correctly. But if something doesn’t feel right, listen to your instincts and discuss it with your doctor. Paying attention to your body is one of the healthiest things you can do.