Introduction
Do you know what is the most common vaginal discharge? Why is it excluded? What do its different colors mean? Many of us have experienced that moment in the bathroom when you notice a different color than usual in your underwear and wonder if there is anything to worry about? Is it period time? Most of the time you’ll see different colors that don’t reflect any disease, and there’s nothing to worry about except to see your doctor if you experience any discomfort with it. Contact your physician.
1. What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a fluid released from small glands in the vagina and cervix. This fluid is released daily from the vagina to remove old cells and debris, keeping the vagina and reproductive tract clean. The amount of vaginal discharge can vary significantly from person to person, and its color and consistency can also vary from day to day.
2. Different colors of vaginal discharge
Vaginal discharge can be of different colors and sometimes indicate a specific medical condition.
2.1 Red to rusty brown
This substance can vary from golden-red to deep rust-colored. Red discharge can usually be a result of menstrual bleeding. Menstrual bleeding usually occurs every 28 days while the normal range is between 21 and 35 days. But if you have bleeding between periods other than your period, there could be various reasons for which you need to consult your doctor.
2.2 White to milky white
A white to pale yellow fluid may be present. If this type of discharge is accompanied by no other symptoms, it is a sign of healthy lubrication. But if the white discharge is thick like cheese and has a foul odor, it could be a sign of infection.
2.3 Yellow to neon green
If the color of the discharge is very light yellow, it does not indicate a problem and is most likely caused by your diet or dietary supplements, but if the discharge is yellow, yellowish If the color is green or dark green, it usually indicates a bacterial or sexually transmitted infection. If the vaginal discharge is thick or irregular or has a bad smell, consult a doctor immediately.
2.4 pink
Pink colored fluid is a sign that it contains a little blood and is usually accompanied by premenstrual spotting and can also be a sign of implantation bleeding in early pregnancy. In addition, sometimes, if there is an injury or infection in the ovary, this type of fluid can also be released during intercourse.
2.5 Clear substance
Most vaginal discharge is white or clear, it can be slimy or egg white like. In the excitement of sexual desire, white and slimy discharge is common during pregnancy.
2.6 Gray like a storm cloud
Gray discharge from the vagina is not healthy and may be a sign of a common bacterial infection (bacterial vaginosis) which usually causes other vaginal discomforts such as itching, burning, odor. or redness around the vagina. If you also have this type of discharge from your vagina, contact your gynecologist immediately.
3. In what cases should you contact your doctor?
Contact your doctor if your vaginal discharge is unusual or appears to be abnormal, or if you experience any of these symptoms: vaginal itching, pain, fluid that is foamy. including lumpy or cheesy discharge, spotting after intercourse, gray, green or yellow discharge, strong odor, burning during urination, etc.
Conclusion
Vaginal discharge is a normal part of reproductive health, but its color and consistency can vary based on numerous factors. While many colors are within the range of normal variation, significant changes, particularly when accompanied by discomfort or other symptoms, may indicate an underlying issue. It’s crucial to pay attention to the characteristics of your discharge and consult a healthcare provider if you notice unusual changes or experience symptoms like itching, burning, or a strong odor. Regular check-ups and being informed about your body can help maintain your reproductive health.