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A140 White Discharge: Causes, Prevention and Treatment

White discharge: causes, prevention and treatment

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Pregnancy

A138 What Does Yellow Discharge Mean?

What Does Yellow Discharge Mean?

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A131 Pink Discharge – What Does It Mean?

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White discharge with odour raises some flags, especially if it is a strong bread-like or fishy odour.

If you also find you have any other symptoms that are concerning you – in particular, if you have white discharge and itching, you’re sore or irritated down below, or if the discharge is lumpy – it is worth getting checked out by a doctor.

## Yeast infection

One of the reasons for the thick white discharge may be a [yeast infection](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/yeast-infection-and-discharge-symptoms-causes-and-treatment/)– also known as thrush. This is particularly likely if by thick you mean a kind of cottage cheese consistency, chunky white discharge, possibly with a yeasty smell, and if you have any other symptoms such as itching in the area.

You don’t need to be sexually active to get this. If you think this is the cause of your white discharge, treatment is in order. Your doctor may give you a cream or gel to help clear it up. Don’t worry: many women go through this in their lifetime, and with medication, it can be sorted out within a few weeks.

## Bacterial infection

If you notice your white discharge giving off a strong fishy smell, you may well have a bacterial infection or bacterial vaginosis (where too many bacteria are developing in your vagina). This is often combined with watery white discharge. Just as with a yeast infection, you don’t need to be sexually active to develop this. Do visit your doctor to seek treatment.

## Sexually transmitted infection

A sexually transmitted disease may also be a reason for thick white discharge and may be accompanied by a strong smell or pain in the pelvic area. You should get this checked out and treated as soon as possible.

A140 -T09 - When is white discharge a cause for concern?

When is white discharge a cause for concern?

A137 Different types of vaginal discharge. What are they and what do they mean?

Different types of Discharge

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There are a few steps you can take to help ensure your health down below, and increase the changes that any yellow discharge is nothing to worry about. Also, at this point in your cycle, your discharge may have a yellow or brown tinge to it. This happens if the lining and dead cells haven’t been cleaned out entirely during your period, so your body is a bit late in getting rid of the last bits. So, how to prevent yellow discharge? For example:

- As well as Always liners, wear cotton underwear, as this allows your vagina to breathe (not literally, obviously!), as air can circulate, and cotton pants can soak up any moisture better than other materials. Wearing airy and not too tight clothing also helps to solve the problem of yellow discharge on pants.
- Avoid deodorant sprays near your vagina – this can cause irritation and lead to an intimate infection.
- Do not douche, as this can change the natural PH balance in the area, and potentially push any infections further inside you – it is best to wash twice a day, and if you want to use liquids they must be of the right pH.
- Instead of intimate hygiene lotions – you can instead wash with a mild or unperfumed soap and water and pat dry
- Practise safe sex – use condoms. Most importantly though, don’t be afraid to ask anyone for help or advice if you have any concerns. Be kind to yourself!

A138 - T08 - How to prevent yellow discharge?

How to prevent yellow discharge?

Most women are very used to seeing the signs of clear or white discharge in their underwear, but sometimes spotting a bit of pink discharge can come as a shock! But what are the reasons, and is there anything to worry about?

A131 - T01 - Deciphering Pink Discharge

Deciphering Pink Discharge

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This type of discharge can concern women most worried that something is wrong with them or their baby. [Brown discharge](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/brown-discharge/) during pregnancy most often is completely harmless. During pregnancy, your cervix is particularly sensitive due to hormone fluctuations and increased blood flow to the area. This means that it may bleed slightly during sex or a gynaecological exam, which will result in some [brown discharge](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/brown-discharge/) in your knickers. To be on the safe side, contact your medical care provider as soon as possible to make sure everything is in the clear. They may want to perform an exam to make sure everything is fine. For extra peace of mind, it never hurts to err on the side of caution. If you are actively bleeding, call your doctor immediately.

A103-T09-Brown pregnancy discharge

Brown pregnancy discharge

If there is one type of vaginal discharge that seems to send everyone into confusion, it is white discharge. Is it normal? Is it not? What causes white discharge? Am I healthy if I have it?

Having vaginal discharge is completely normal – most women and girls get it. __It's a fluid or mucus that keeps the vagina clean and moist and protects it from infection__.

Usually, the very first discharge occurs during puberty and then follows us throughout our lives. The amount often decreases with age and varies in quantity during different periods of life. During pregnancy for example, it is not uncommon to have abundant vaginal discharge.

Always remember that if your discharge changes – for example, in smell, colour or texture – it might be a sign of an infection. But do not self-diagnose – see a GP if you're worried.

A140 White discharge in women: causes, prevention and treatment

If its colour is whitish and its consistency uniform and not too thick, it is probably a normal discharge, which is not a cause for concern. White discharge in women, or in this case natural mucus, is odourless and its quantity does not cause discomfort in daily life or physical activities. The abundance of mucus is usually small enough to be absorbed into underwear, not requiring the use of sanitary pads or other underpads.

Observing vaginal discharge is not only helpful in detecting infections. Tracking changes in the consistency and colour of mucus is part of natural family planning - identifying fertile days in a woman's menstrual cycle.

A140 - T02 - What is white discharge?

What is white discharge?

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You’re growing a little human! How amazing. This comes with lots of changes – some of them pretty obvious, but some of them may come as a surprise. Like changes in your vaginal [discharge during pregnancy](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/what-is-vaginal-discharge/). It is worth observing them, for example - pregnancy discharge colour. Remember, in case of any changes or concerns about discharge, it’s always recommended that you speak to a medical professional.

A103 Your guide to pregnancy discharge colour and texture changes

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Vaginal Discharge

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White vaginal discharge is a sign of the normal functioning of the female body and is one of the first signs of puberty. It is made up of cervical mucus, bacteria and cells of the exfoliated vaginal epithelium, where lactic acid bacilli are found.

White discharge before period, and sometimes a yellowish vaginal discharge, is a natural phenomenon, provided that its abundance does not cause discomfort and is not accompanied by any worrying symptoms. It may be noticeable on underwear, but its quantity should not cause discomfort in daily life.

A140 - T08 - Is white discharge normal?

Is white discharge normal?

White discharge in pregnancy is normal, provided it is not accompanied by any distressing symptoms such as itching or burning. It can sometimes be quite thick and mucous-like. This increased white [discharge](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/what-is-vaginal-discharge/) during pregnancy is your body’s way of protecting against infection by creating an extra barrier between your growing foetus and the outside world. You’ll notice increased white discharge in early pregnancy. It may continue to increase throughout your pregnancy, and even after.

If the [white discharge](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/white-discharge-causes-prevention-and-treatment/) in pregnancy is thin, has a homogeneous consistency and is accompanied by an unpleasant fish-like odour, it may indicate bacterial vaginosis. If the white mucus has a lumpy, "cheesy", heterogeneous consistency and in addition you feel pain in the intimate area, itching and burning - these are symptoms of vaginal thrush infection.

A103-T06-White discharge in pregnancy

White discharge in pregnancy

Discharge is a mucous-like substance produced by the glands in the vagina and cervix as part of the body’s process to keep itself clean, healthy, and clear of infection.

Most of the time it is a clear, sticky substance, but at different points in our monthly cycles – and in our lives – vaginal discharge can change colour, texture, and smell. Most of the time there is nothing to worry about, it is just our hormones at work, and any changes to discharge are a result of that.

A140 - T01 - Back to basics: What is vaginal discharge?

Back to basics: What is vaginal discharge?

Your guide to pregnancy discharge colour and texture changes

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A140 White discharge: causes, prevention and treatment

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Yellow discharge is categorised as discharge - that is, a change in the physiological vaginal discharge observed during an infection. Only in rare cases is yellow vaginal mucus observed. Usually there is an admixture of a different colour and this is referred to as yellowish vaginal discharge.

A138 - T05 - What causes yellow discharge?

What causes yellow discharge?

Pink Discharge 

 He is an accredited subspecialist in gynaecological oncology surgery. He completed a higher research degree (MD) in vulval disease in 1995.

At Always, we make sure that information we provide regarding menstruation and menstrual cycle is accurate. This is why we cooperate with healthcare specialists. 

David Nunns - Consultant Gynaecologist 

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The types of yellow discharge vary; to recognise what it may mean, see the list below. Yellow discharge meaning:

- __Yellow vaginal discharge and infection__ – infection such as bacterial vaginosis may produce vulvar itching, burning, swelling of the labia and vagina. There may be an unpleasant odour and a profuse yellow vaginal discharge.
- __Yellow vaginal discharge and erosion__ - this can be a symptom of erosion which refers to a red appearance to the cervix common on the contraceptive pill. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as minor spotting between periods.
- __Yellow vaginal discharge and atrophic vaginitis__ - this most commonly affects post-menopausal women, but can also occur in young women with disrupted oestrogen levels. The main symptoms of this condition are vaginal dryness, irritation, burning in the intimate area and a watery, yellow vaginal discharge may occur.

A138 - T03 - What are the types of yellow discharge?

What are the types of yellow discharge?

A133-Vaginal-Discharge-Colour-Guide

A133 Vaginal Discharge Colour Guide

Vaginal Discharge Colour Guide

Yellowish or green discharge in pregnancy may be a sign of infection, such as bacterial vaginosis – an upset in the bacterial balance of your vagina which can cause a fishy odour. The discharge may have an unpleasant smell. The presence of purulent, yellow, thick discharge can also indicate infection with other sexually transmitted diseases. These can include gonorrhoea and chlamydia, in the course of which the cervix becomes inflamed. If these symptoms are also accompanied with itching, burning and pain during urination.

Yellowish discharge in pregnancy, which has a cheesy, curd-like consistency, may also be related to a vaginal fungal infection. Usually this is associated with vulval itching.

When you notice this type of discharge you should see your doctor immediately.

A103-T08-Yellow or green discharge in pregnancy

Yellow or green discharge in pregnancy

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White discharge can also be an early sign of pregnancy, as extra discharge is produced to help keep the vagina clean. By effectively cleansing out the vagina, it acts to prevent any infections from getting up into the womb to the baby. Changes can start as early as 1-2 weeks after conception, that is, even before noticing the absence of menstruation. Normal discharge at the beginning of pregnancy is clear or milky white and does not have a strong smell. Only their abundance changes.

A140 - T07 - White discharge as an early sign of pregnancy

White discharge as an early sign of pregnancy

Decoding discharge

Is it normal? Is it not? What causes it? So many questions! Click here to learn all you need to know about white discharge in women!

White discharge in women: causes, prevention and treatment

If there are no causes for it other than your body’s natural cycle, then don’t worry! If you are finding the stains and damp feeling to be an issue though, use an Always Daily pantyliner, especially at times when your discharge may be heavier. They can take away any concerns and leave you feeling fresher and cleaner. As they have been dermatologically tested, they are safe to wear daily.

A140 - T011 - How can I deal with white discharge?

How can I deal with white discharge?

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What is ‘normal’ when it comes to discharge can vary a lot from woman to woman, and getting to know your body and your ‘normal’ is the best way to spot if anything is wrong. Most of the time your discharge will change a little throughout the month in colour and consistency, and that is completely fine. And what does yellow discharge mean? Some people may naturally have a creamy yellow discharge, for others it may be clear or white, but become more yellowish when exposed to the air. Again, it’s means is yellow discharge normal. Knowing what your discharge looks like in a typical month, is the best way to know if there are any problems, so have a check when you are wiping after going to the toilet. Alternatively wearing Always liners allows you to clearly see the colour of your discharge on a white background. It is also a good way to stop any discharge from leaving any embarrassing or annoying stains. 

However, there is one colour of discharge that can be a bit disconcerting, as it can be both normal and abnormal: yellow discharge.

Why do we get it, what causes yellow discharge, and is it healthy? Well, depending on the cause, it might be your body’s way of telling you something is up – or it might be perfectly fine. Find out what [brown vaginal discharge is](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/brown-discharge/)! Confusing, right? Read on for a few alternative reasons as to why you could be experiencing this.

A138 - T04 - Is yellow discharge normal?

Is yellow discharge normal?

The main point to remember in all of this is that when you think about what is ‘normal’, it is what is normal for you - not everyone else. Get to know your own cycle, as changes to it can give you a clue as to what is happening in your body.

It might even be worth keeping a diary of the [type of discharge](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/different-types-of-discharge/) you experience throughout a typical month, so you know what to expect, and can spot any changes or potential problems more easily. Record in it what colour your discharge is and the consistency, for example, white discharge before your period. This should give you a better understanding of what is going on, and let’s face it, that can never be a bad thing, can it?! In addition, following the changes in the consistency and colour of the mucus afterwards is part of natural family planning - identifying the [fertile days in a woman's menstrual cycle](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/ovulation-and-discharge/).

A140 - T012 - Keeping track of the changes in your discharge

Keeping track of the changes in your discharge

Different colours of pregnancy discharge may leave you a little distressed. But we’re here to decode the rainbow for you, to let you know what it all means, when to seek medical advice and when not (hint: most often, it’s a “no-worry” situation!).

Pregnancy is a time of change. Not only does your body change shape as your baby grows inside you, but so do your hormones. The colour, consistency, and amount of vaginal discharge in pregnancy you produce is highly linked to your hormone levels. This means that as your hormones change as your pregnancy progresses, so will your discharge. If, on the other hand, there is discharge, associated with a change in the appearance, colour, consistency or smell of the discharge, it may be necessary to report this to a health professional.

A103-T04-Discharge colours in pregnancy and their meaning

Discharge colours in pregnancy and their meaning

A131 Pink Discharge - What Does it Mean?

Pink Discharge - What Does it Mean?

Dr David Nunns

Article reviewed by

A131-Pink-Discharge-What-Does-It-Mean

The most common symptom of intimate problems is a yellow vaginal discharge. It may be accompanied by burning, pain on urination and itching. There are a number of causes of vaginal discharge outlined below.

A138 - T02 - What is yellow vaginal discharge?

What is yellow vaginal discharge?

It is also worth mentioning that both the consistency of the discharge during pregnancy and its volume are closely linked to the hormonal storm that takes place in a woman's body during this time. When oestrogen levels increase, the amount of discharge also increases, because the egg was fertilised. What is more, doctors unanimously confirm that a clear stretchy discharge in pregnancy is even a desirable symptom.

It is important to remember that changes in cervical mucus are not a foolproof way to tell if you are pregnant, but they can be a useful indicator of when it is worth taking a pregnancy test.

A103-T05-Clear and stretchy discharge in pregnancy

Clear and stretchy discharge in pregnancy

## Understanding Discharge Colours

Most women get regular telltale white or clear staining in their underwear from puberty onwards, and over time you have learnt that it is just vaginal discharge, and is nothing to worry about.

But while most of the time discharge is healthy and a sign that your body is functioning correctly, occasionally something will knock it off track, and changes to its appearance can be a sign that all is not well down below. One of the key changes you might see, is discharge colour. It can be kind of weird to look down and see a different shade to one you are used to, and can leave you wondering what colour discharge should actually be. Fear not! It is all relatively straightforward, as you can see from our handy guide below, to discharge colours and their meanings.

## Clear discharge

Clear discharge is perfectly normal at different points in your menstrual cycle. It has various jobs to do, depending on its texture, but largely means that your vagina is doing exactly as intended, so you can sit back and relax.

## White discharge

This is the discharge colour that you will probably see the most in your underwear. Depending on the time of the month it may be thicker and creamier, or thinner and waterier, but generally a variation is to be expected and is absolutely fine. The only time that a white discharge might not be so great, is if it is lumpy, and reminiscent of cottage cheese – this means you are potentially suffering with a yeast infection. This is generally easily treatable, so don’t worry, but be sure to get checked out by the doctor. Otherwise though, white is generally a normal discharge colour, so take it as a sign of good health down below.

## Yellow discharge

A yellow discharge colour can mean different things, often dependent on the shade of yellow you are talking about. A creamy kind of light yellow might be absolutely fine. For some people, this is actually their natural discharge colour, instead of white. A bright canary yellow though, and you may well have contracted an STI or bacterial infection. The addition of other symptoms, such as vaginal or pelvic pain, or a strong odour, can help identify if this is the case, but generally best to get some medical advice to determine the exact cause and get it treated.

## Pink or brown discharge
Usually, a pink or brown discharge is caused by a bit of blood getting into your discharge, and is nothing to be worried about. Maybe your period is about to start or has just ended, you have switched to a new method of contraceptive, or have recently given birth. Very occasionally there can be a more serious reason though, so if the colour continues for a longer period of time, or you notice any other symptoms that concern you, always best to get it checked out.

## Green discharge
The most likely causes of this kind of discharge, are a sexually transmitted or bacterial infection, both of which would require a trip to the doctor. Remember, that ‘normal discharge colour’ varies from person to person, and the best thing you can do is to get to know your own body and the discharge cycle that is unique to you. Whatever the colour though, wearing Always Dailies liners can be a smart way to get a fresh feeling that lasts all day long. The white liners also allow you to clearly see and get used to your own colour, and notice any changes.

A133 -Content- Vaginal Discharge Colour Guide 

To stay feeling fresh, consider using [Always Daily pantyliners](/en-gb/feminine-products/panty-liners/). They will give you the dry underwear feel, every day, as they absorb discharge. Also, they are super thin and flexible, you will barely feel them. They come in a variety of sizes and absorbencies, so whatever your [discharge](/en-gb/period-hub/vaginal-discharge/what-is-vaginal-discharge/) needs, we’ve got you covered. That way you can focus on what really matters – preparing for your little bundle of joy.

[Always Daily](/en-gb/feminine-products/panty-liners/) is on a mission to bust common myths around vaginal discharge. In fact, vaginal discharge is totally normal, and most women experience it. Why make it a taboo topic? We want to provide you with all the information you need and ask for. In case you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 0080077634434 or 08000285884 (UK), 1800509203 (IRE).

A103-T11-Staying fresh

Staying fresh

A131 Pink Discharge

PH04 - Vaginal Discharge - Our most read Articles

Our most read Articles

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White Discharge: Causes, Prevention and Treatment

Unusual discharge

A white stretchy discharge is perfectly normal and may also be of a much thicker consistency. During ovulation, a thin white discharge can appear, but in other phases of the cycle, it can also be of a much thicker consistency. However, at times its appearance may vary and differ from that of a regular white discharge.

The types of white discharge can be divided into:

*   yellowish discharge - if the discharge becomes yellowish and has an unpleasant odour and you experience a burning and itching sensation in the intimate area, it may indicate a bacterial infection;
*   milky white discharge - a white discharge resembling curdled milk indicates a fungal infection;
*   greyish discharge, greenish or white vaginal discharge - with an unpleasant fish-like smell, this indicates a vaginal infection caused by a disruption of the vaginal flora; and
*   thick creamy or white discharge in women - which has a granular consistency, sometimes with white lumps and may be accompanied by itching, indicates vaginitis.

A140 - T05 - Different types of white vaginal discharge

Different types of white vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge is a normal physiological symptom that occurs in women. It should not cause concern if it is clear, white, odourless or uniform. However, it does happen that it starts to change its smell and colour. If it turns yellow, it may indicate a disease.

Read the full articles below

A white discharge in women can cause concern. Fortunately, not all discharge is a sign of an illness of the intimate parts. A white vaginal discharge is usually a sign that a woman's body is functioning normally, especially when its consistency is uniform and not too thick. If, in addition, the white discharge in women has an unpleasant smell and becomes thick and lumpy, it may indicate the presence of bacteria or fungi in the vagina.

A140 - T04 - What does white discharge mean?

What does white discharge mean?

Spotting a bit of pink discharge can come as a shock! Click here to learn what the reasons for it are, and if there is anything to worry about!

Pink Discharge

Pink Discharge – What Does It Mean?

Periods vs Pregnancy

A099 What Is Vaginal Discharge?

What Is Vaginal Discharge?

Periods after pregnancy 

A vaginal discharge with a thin consistency, transparent colour and odourless odour is perfectly natural. It signifies that the menstrual cycle is proceeding in an appropriate manner. Its function is to clean the vagina of dead cells, get rid of harmful bacteria, keep the reproductive organs clean, protect against infection and moisturise during intercourse. Immediately after menstruation, it is practically absent, and before the period it becomes thick and opaque.

A138 - T01 - What’s considered normal vaginal discharge?

What’s considered normal vaginal discharge?

A pregnant woman's discharge may turn pink as her body prepares to give birth. The dilating cervix releases the plug, which is usually the consistency of pink, trailing jelly. This is not a symptom of illness or an emergency, but a sign of early labour.

Blood in the vaginal mucus should prompt a consultation with your doctor immediately.

A103-T10-Red discharge in pregnancy

Red discharge in pregnancy

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Your-Guide-To-Pregnancy-Discharge-Colour

A103 Your Guide To Pregnancy Discharge Colour

Discharge & Ovulation

Period Hub- PH04 - Vaginal Discharge

The many colours of pregnancy discharge may have you a little distressed. But we’re here to help and decode the rainbow for you!

A103 Guide to pregnancy discharge colour and texture changes

Guide to pregnancy discharge colour and texture changes

The discharge during the first weeks of pregnancy should be odourless and uniform in consistency. It may also be stringy. The early pregnancy discharge colour should be whitish-transparent or slightly yellowish. The increase in oestrogens and progesterone induces this increase in discharge production. The discharge may increase the protective function against infection. In addition, a mucus plug within the cervix forms at the beginning of pregnancy, which passes away before birth.


A103-T03-Early pregnancy discharge colour

Early pregnancy discharge colour

The appearance of vaginal discharge also depends on age. In mature women, the discharge is more abundant, while after menopause, it is no longer secreted. In girls, on the other hand, vaginal discharge is white and odourless. The appearance of a white vaginal discharge should not be a cause for concern, but if it has an unpleasant odour, we recommend you seek medical advice.

A140 - T06 - How white discharge changes with age?

How white discharge changes with age?

Most of the time your discharge will change a little throughout the month in colour and consistency, and that is fine. And what does yellow discharge mean?