TeenHealthFX - Answers - What Is Vaginal Discharge Composed Of?

Vaginal Discharge, Infections, & Odors and Douching / Question
Published: June 22, 2009

Dear TeenHealthFX,

What is a woman's vaginal discharge composed of?

Signed: What Is Vaginal Discharge Composed Of?

Dear What Is Vaginal Discharge Composed Of?,

Glands inside the vagina and cervix make small amounts of fluid that flow out of the vagina daily. This fluid carries out old cells that have lined the vagina in order to the keep the vagina healthy and clean.

Some facts about vaginal discharge:

· Having vaginal discharge is normal and natural.

· Vaginal discharge is usually clear or milky and does not smell bad.

· The amount of discharge can vary from woman to woman.

· The quantity of vaginal discharge is usually less before menarche and after menopause then it is during the reproductive years.

· The color and thickness of vaginal discharge can change with the monthly menstrual cycle. For example, vaginal discharge is often thicker during ovulation.

· Changes in the appearance and consistency of vaginal discharge can also be caused by emotional stress, taking OTC medications (including the pill), pregnancy, sexual arousal, and diet.

There are changes that can occur with vaginal discharge that may indicate that there is some inflammatory condition with the vagina or cervix that requires treatment, such as vaginitis. These changes can include:

· Increase in the amount of discharge

· Change in color of the discharge

· A foul smell to the discharge

· A discharge stained with blood when you do not have your period

· Irritation, itchiness and/or burning in or around the vagina

If you are experiencing any of the above changes with your discharge it is recommended that you contact your doctor. If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-6475 for an appointment. You can also contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood, or call your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.

Tips on preventing vaginitis:

· Wipe from front to back after going to the bathroom to help prevent spreading bacteria from the rectal area into the vagina.

· Wear cotton underwear during the day and do not wear underwear at night.

· Avoid wearing tight pants, pantyhose, swimming suits, biking shorts or leotards for long periods of time.

· Change your laundry detergent or fabric softener if you think they may be irritating your genital area.

· Avoid hot tubs.

· Take a bath or shower daily and gently pat your genital area dry.

· Do not douche.

· Avoid feminine hygiene sprays, colored or perfumed toilet paper, deodorant pas or tampons, and bubble bath.

· If you are sexually active, know that the latex in condoms and diaphragms, and some sperm-killing gels, can be irritating for some women. If this is the case, speak to your doctor about alternate forms of birth control methods.

Signed: TeenHealthFX