Is vaginal discharge normal?

Vaginal discharge is made by glands in the vagina and cervix. It carries away old cells, keeps the tissue moist and helps protect against infection, so it is a sign of a body doing its normal work rather than a sign of being unclean.

Healthy discharge is usually clear or whitish, and it may leave a pale yellowish mark on underwear as it dries. It has little or no smell. How much each person has varies a lot, and what matters most is what is usual for you.

Hormones shift the amount and feel of discharge across the menstrual cycle. Around ovulation it often becomes clearer, wetter and stretchy, a little like raw egg white, and at other times it may be thicker or barely noticeable.

Pregnancy, hormonal contraception, breastfeeding and the years around menopause can all change discharge too. Arousal produces a separate, temporary wetness that is also normal.

A change in colour, smell or texture can point to a common and treatable condition. A fishy smell with thin grey-white discharge is typical of bacterial vaginosis, thick white discharge with itching often goes with thrush, and some sexually transmitted infections can cause unusual discharge, pain when peeing or bleeding between periods.

It is better not to self-diagnose, because these conditions can look alike and need different treatment. A GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic can help, and you should seek advice promptly if discharge comes with pelvic pain, fever, sores or bleeding after sex.

The vagina cleans itself. Gentle washing of the outside skin with warm water, or a mild unperfumed soap, is enough. Douching and perfumed washes, wipes or deodorants can upset the natural balance and make irritation or infection more likely.