Vaginal discharge: Top facts

1. What is vaginal discharge?
   Vaginal discharge is the fluid that comes out of a woman’s vagina. Usually, it’s clear or whitish. The consistency of vaginal discharge can vary between thick and almost crumbly or even be similar to egg white. 
   
   It is totally normal to discharge this fluid. Most women have it at least sometimes. Some women have discharge all the time, and yet others never have discharge. That’s all okay. Don't think it as a vaginal infection!
2. What does it do?
   Have you ever heard someone say that the vagina can cleanse itself? That’s actually true and the reason for that is vaginal discharge. Its main function is to keep the vagina clean. It flushes away dead cells and bacteria and prevents infections. Not the most sexy thing, but  pretty genius, isn’t it?
   
   That’s why it’s so important to be gentle to your genitals. Harsh soaps and douching can disturb the natural balance and cause discomfort and vaginal infection. 
3. Does it change throughout your cycle?
   Over the course of your menstrual cycle, vaginal discharge changes considerably. For most days, it is sticky, milky and whitish. Around the time a woman is ovulating and fertile, it will become clear and more gel-like. It’s also normal to have more discharge when you are ovulating, breast feeding or very aroused. Women who go through menopause will usually have less discharge.
4. When should you see a doctor?
   As vaginal discharge is perfectly normal and healthy, usually there is no need to discuss it with a doctor. What may be normal for one women may look completely different for another. However, if you see any drastic changes in smell, color or quantity, especially in combination with vaginal itching, vaginal infection, pain or redness, it could be a sign of infection. In that case, you must consult your doctor and get it checked.
5. What can change vaginal discharge?
   Infections and STDs and vaginal infection can affect the colour or odour of your discharge. It may change even if you are taking antibiotics or using a new birth control method. Overdoing genital hygiene (or not doing enough) can cause issues. Medical conditions, such as cervical cancer or diabetes can affect it. And a lot of other things.
   
   It is very important to keep an eye on change in discharge. Consider vaginal discharge as a mirror for your sexual health. This may still not make it sexy, but it is actually cool.

Sources:
http://www.hhs.gov/opa/pdfs/vaginal-discharge-fact-sheet.pdf
http://www.webmd.com/women/guide/vaginal-discharge-whats-abnormal

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