Milky white vaginal discharge is usually normal and a sign of a healthy reproductive system.
When it looks like a thick white discharge, it can be a sign ofovulation.
What Does Normal Vaginal Discharge Look Like?
Yournormal dischargemay range from milky to white.
It will vary from person to person.
How Common Are Vaginal Yeast Infections?
Vaginal yeast infections are common.
In most cases, they are very treatable.
The causes of a vaginal yeast infection vary.
Vaginal yeast infections are usually treatable with over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
Your provider may prescribe antifungal medications such as oralfluconazole.
The discharge acts as a barrier to protect the cervix from infection.
As you get closer to ovulation, your vaginal discharge will thin out into a clear or milky discharge.
This is a sign of fertility because its easier for sperm to swim through than a thicker discharge.
The amount of discharge, what it smells like, and the consistency of it also matter.
If you have vaginal discharge that is unusual for you, tell your provider.
Which STIs Cause Abnormal Discharge?
STIs that commonly cause abnormal vaginal discharge includechlamydia, gonorrhea,trichomoniasis, and syphilis.
Preventing Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is often completely normal and necessary for the health of your body.
However, if you have excessive discharge, you could talk to your provider about ways to manage it.
Coping with vaginal discharge can be as simple as wearing a liner in your underwear.
Summary
Vaginal discharge is normal and necessary for the health of your reproductive system.
Milky white discharge can be a sign that your body is preparing for ovulation.
It could also be an early sign of pregnancy.
However, there are times when changes to your discharge can signal a problem.
If you have vaginal discharge that is thick, clumpy, or an unusual color, call your provider.
It can be a sign of an infection, like an STI, or another problem with your health.
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Department of Health and Human Services Office on Womens Health.Vaginal yeast infections.
