Vaginal Discharge, Infections, & Odors and Douching / Question
Published: March 1, 2001

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I have this clear discharge coming out of my vagina. Is this an infection? I have never had sex or kissed a guy before.

Signed: Clear Discharge - Infection

Dear Clear Discharge - Infection,

Vaginal discharge is common to all women. Vaginal secretions are the body's way of keeping the vagina healthy by maintaining a proper acidic environment. Normal vaginal fluids can have a mild scent or no smell at all. The discharge can also be:

• Clear or milky white when moist
• Yellowish in color when dried
• Mucus-like or stringy in consistency
• Heavier when sexually aroused, during pregnancy, if you use birth control, and during different times in your menstruation cycle

If you notice a change in odor or consistency of the discharge you probably want to talk to your doctor. Sometimes these signs can signal the presence of a yeast infection, which is a common vaginal infection that is not sexually transmitted.

If you need a doctor, and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health at 973.889.6350 for an appointment.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

The teenage pregnancy rate in the U.S. is at its lowest level in thirty years, down 36% since it’s peak in 1990. Research suggests that both increased abstinence and positive changes in contraceptive practice are responsible these recent declines in teen pregnancy.

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