Vaginal Discharge – It’s Time We Talk!
The discharge from your vagina is normal and just as common as the vagina itself. It’s one of the many geniuses of the female body. Believe you me, when you understand where the stuff on your knickers comes from, how it works, and why it’s there, you’ll be sharing this knowledge too!
What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge plays a significant role – it’s the body’s way of keeping your vagina healthy and clean. Discharge is a combination of vaginal fluids and mucus from the cervix – you know, what you see in your knickers and experience at your vagina opening during the day. The glands inside your vagina and cervix produce small amounts of fluids, known as vaginal secretions, this cleanses old cells that have lined the vagina to keep it clean and healthy.
Discharge is different for every person. It’s normal to see and experience different types of discharge throughout your cycle. What’s important is to keep track of what’s normal for you.
The varieties of vaginal discharge
Your vagina’s ecosystem is sensitive to changes, so it’s common to see different types of fluids throughout the month. As estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, so does your discharge. Some days discharge can be white, creamy, or milky; other days, it’s clear, slippery, and similar to raw egg white. A few days after menstruation or ovulation, it’s also common to experience dryness. Go ahead, have a peak; it’s your bodily fluid!
What does ‘normal’ look and smell like?
Vaginal discharge colour, texture, taste, and smell changes throughout your menstrual cycle, remember every woman has their ‘normal’. Some women experience it daily, others only a small window in their cycle. Vaginal discharge varies in descriptions but you may come across some of the following – clear, stretchy, creamy, milky, white, cloudy. Along with visuals you will also experience a subtle scent that is not strong or unpleasant. These changes are normal and associated with ovulation.
What does ‘abnormal’ look and smell like?
Although discharge can change throughout the month, changes in colour, smell and texture can signal that something is wrong, especially if there is itching, burning, or irritation. If your discharge is yellow, grey, green, resembles a thick cottage cheese consistency, or has an unpleasant odour, talk to a healthcare professional.
Are you having challenges and aren’t sure where to start? If you’re like me and always opt for natural approaches, you’re going to want to reach for this herb – Horopito. It is grown in New Zealand and is known to gently soothe and help women with thrush and vaginal discomfort. This herb is perfect for the vagina and vulva area because of its gentle healing approach to such sensitive areas. Your vagina will love you for it!
The vagina is genius, right? Your discharge can be a huge indication for what’s going on in your body. Every woman is different, so it’s a good idea to pay attention to your natural rhythms and recognise what’s normal for you.
Melissa Vranjes
Certified Fertility Awareness Educator
www.melissavranjes.com