Is There Such A Thing As Healthy Vaginal Discharge? If So... What?
Yes, there is! And you should experience some every day.
You may not necessarily see it or notice it. One of the reasons for this is that healthy vaginal discharge is clear or slightly off white.
I think the vagina is a fascinating organ. It changes size as needed and is self-cleaning. And that’s where the discharge comes in. Throughout the day the vagina will keep itself lubricated, because it’s important that the tissue stay wet. That lubrication also helps remove unwanted bacteria and can help to rebalance the pH of the vagina.
If you didn’t know, the pH of a vagina before menopause should be in the 3.8 – 4.5 range. After menopause, it will be higher, in the 6 – 8 range. If you want to read more about pH and lube (for both the vagina and the anus) check out this article
This lubrication, which we see as discharge from the vagina, is a mix of mucus and fluid. It’s not a massive amount, it’s actually less than a teaspoon each day.
So if you’re seeing some clear discharge then don’t worry – that’s normal.
There may be times when you notice a change in the amount of discharge, the texture of the discharge, or a different color than you’re used to seeing.
If you’re horny, you will probably notice more discharge. When you get turned on, often your vagina gets wetter, and we’ll see that as discharge. If you’re fully clothed when this happens, you’ll notice more discharge in your underwear than you’re used to.
If you are still getting your period, you’ll notice some changes in the amount and texture of vaginal discharge as you move through your menstrual cycle. In the ovulation phase, there will be more discharge and it will be more slippery. Some women who choose to use Natural Family Planning as their method of contraception will check their cervical mucus daily to get a better idea of where they are in their cycle (if you want to know more about this, just ask) .
So when should you be concerned about your vaginal discharge?
If the fluid is white and clumpy, and comes with a lot of vaginal itching, that may be a sign you have a yeast infection. If this has never happened before, I suggest going to a health care provider so they can see what’s going on.
If the discharge is red and you’re in the bleeding phase of your cycle, then no cause for alarm. If you’re not in the bleeding phase of your cycle, or you’re post-menopausal and you see red discharge, definitely see a heath care provider.
Other colors like yellow or green are often signs of an STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection). Definitely get that checked out, even if you’re having no other symptoms.
Odds are that you know your body better than anyone. So if something feels off with your vaginal discharge, either in the amount, the color, or new symptoms that come with it, then have a conversation with your health care provider.
Until next time, be safe and have fun!
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