Vaginal discharge is common among women in their child-bearing years, states the National Institutes of Health. The texture, color and odor of vaginal discharge may vary within normal parameters, depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle. However, uncharacteristic changes in vaginal secretions, such as too much discharge coupled with an unpleasant, abnormal odor could signal the need to see your health care practitioner.
Types
Normal vagina discharge is is a mixture of fluid, cells and bacteria that constantly moves through your vagina in order to keep it clean, according to the Mayo Clinic. Color and consistency can change from sticky and white to watery and clear, depending where you are in your reproductive cycle. Vaginal discharge is even common during pregnancy. Other factors, such as stress and sexual excitement can increase the amount vaginal discharge you notice, says the NIH. You may notice more vaginal discharge at the time of ovulation, when an egg is released from your ovary mid-cycle.
Vaginitis
Underlying health conditions can cause noticeable changes in vaginal discharge and odor, says the Mayo Clinic. These symptoms may be paired with itching, irritation, painful intercourse and/or urination and bleeding. Yeast infections are one type of vaginitis. Caused by an overgrowth of microscopic fungi such as C. albicans, this infection may make vaginal discharge dense and thick in texture, similar to cottage cheese. Bacterial vaginosis results when unhealthy or "bad" bacterial that inhabit the vaginal tract overgrow. Vaginal discharge may be thin, stringy and have a malodorous, fishy smell. Trichomoniasis, technically a sexually-transmitted disease, also falls under the category of vaginitis, according to the Mayo Clinic. This infection may result in discharge that's frothy and greenish-yellow in color.
Sexually-Transmitted Diseases
Trichomoniasis is one of many sexually-transmitted diseases that can alter the amount of vaginal discharge you notice, as well as cause a change in odor. Chlamydia, gonorrhea and other STDs can cause abnormal vaginal discharge. Problematic with many of these diseases, says Planned Parenthood, is that they may be entirely asymptomatic. For example, four of five women with gonorrhea exhibit no symptoms, three of four women who have chlamydia are asymptomatic. However, Planned Parenthood indicates that STDs are quite common, with more than 50 percent of people acquiring one at some point in life.
When to See Your Doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice an abrupt departure from your normal vaginal odor and amount of discharge, especially when discharge is greenish, yellowish, thick or cheesy and coupled with other symptoms, such as an unpleasant odor, vaginal burning and irritation and light bleeding not related to your menstrual period. This is especially important if you have a new sex partner or numerous partners, says the Mayo Clinic, as the symptoms of STDs are similar to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, which are not contagious. Yeast infections are extremely common; however, many women use over-the-counter medications to address an unrelated infection, which can make symptoms worse. If you've never had a yeast infection and aren't positive you have one, see your doctor before you self-treat.
Home Care
To keep your vagina in good operating condition and excess discharge at minimum, keep your genital area clean and dry, advises the NIH. Avoid douching---although this might make you feel more refreshed, you may be washing away the helpful bacteria your vagina relies on to protect you against infection. Avoid masking your natural scent with feminine hygiene sprays, fragrances or powders, says the NIH. Choose breathable cotton underwear over those made of silk or nylon, and avoid pants and shorts that are too tight. Finally and perhaps most importantly, always use condoms to protect yourself against STDs.
