Vaginal discharge: what is normal and when should you see a gynaecologist?

English version

What does normal vaginal discharge look like?

Vaginal discharge is not automatically a sign of infection. A small amount of clear or white discharge helps keep the vagina clean and moist. Its amount and consistency can change during the menstrual cycle, around ovulation, during pregnancy, with sexual activity or while using hormonal contraception.

Normal discharge usually:

• Is clear, white or milky.
• Has no strong or unpleasant smell.
• May be sticky, creamy, slippery or wet.
• Does not cause significant itching, soreness or pain.

Knowing what is usual for your body can help you recognise a meaningful change.

Which changes should be assessed?

Arrange a consultation if the discharge:

• Develops a strong, fishy or unpleasant smell.
• Becomes persistently grey, green, yellow, frothy or blood-stained.
• Is thick and white with itching or soreness.
• Is accompanied by burning while passing urine.
• Occurs with pelvic pain, pain during sex or bleeding after sex.
• Appears after unprotected sex or with a new sexual partner.
• Keeps returning after treatment or changes noticeably during pregnancy.

These patterns can occur with bacterial vaginosis, a yeast infection, trichomoniasis, cervicitis or certain sexually transmitted infections. Appearance alone cannot reliably identify the cause, and some infections can be present without obvious symptoms.

Avoid treating every discharge yourself

Different conditions can produce similar symptoms but require different treatment. Repeatedly using antifungal medicine or antibiotics without assessment may delay the correct diagnosis. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, a doctor may recommend an examination, vaginal or cervical swab, urine test, pregnancy test or STI testing. Not every patient needs every test.

Avoid vaginal douching, scented intimate washes, deodorants and perfumed wipes. Wash the external area gently with water and, if needed, a mild non-perfumed cleanser. Do not wash inside the vagina.