How to Know Whats Healthy and Whats Not
Healthy vaginas produce vaginal discharge or fluid.
This is completely normal but when these fluids change, it can signal a problem.
What does normal discharge look like?
Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health
It is has the following characteristics:
This article describes healthy vaginal fluids.
It also explains which types of discharge may mean there’s an infection.
Glands in your vagina andcervixproduce small amounts of fluid that flow out of your body every day.
These fluids lubricate the vagina.
Vaginal dischargenormally varies throughout the month.
A healthy vagina continually secretes fluids that lubricate the vagina and vulva.
Normal vaginal discharge helps clean the vagina by removing old cells.
It’s these mucus-like secretions that keep it healthy.
One of the many functions of your vagina is to provide a route to youruterusand reproductive system.
The fluids in your vagina also help to create a naturally acidic environment.
ThepH of your vaginahelps prevent infections.
It also helps to promote a good balance of bacteria or flora.
That’s when your ovaries release an egg.
After you ovulate, your vaginal fluid has less water in it.
Your vagina may then feel drier.
It’s important to know your own body’s patterns.
Cyclic changes in your vaginal fluids are important clues to your health.
Normal changes are a sign that your endocrine system is working well.
It’s also important to know that you’re more vulnerable to infections just before or during your period.
That’s because the pH balance of your vagina varies during your cycle.
The acidic level is at its lowest point a few days before and during your period.
Lower acid may make it easier for bacteria to thrive.
Color is also important.
Brightyellowor green discharge could be a concern.
For BV, you’ll need a prescription.
Usually, your healthcare provider will prescribe oral metronidazole.
You’ll also need to see a healthcare provider if you think you may have an STI.
Summary
Vaginas secrete fluids that change over the course of a month.
These fluids keep the vagina clean and well-lubricated.
They can also tell you a lot about what stage of the menstrual cycle your body is in.
Healthy vaginal fluids are generally clear or milky-looking.
They are mostly water and don’t have a strong smell.
If you notice these changes, talk to a healthcare provider to see what’s causing the differences.
If you have an infection, you may need prescription medication.
Sim M, Logan S, Goh L.Vaginal discharge: evaluation and management in primary care.smedj.
2021;11(11):1996. doi:10.3390/diagnostics11111996
American Academy of Family Physicians.Abnormal Uterine Bleeding.
Paladine HL, Desai UA.Vaginitis: Diagnosis and treatment.Am Fam Physician.
2018;97(5):321-329.
Martin Lopez JE.Candidiasis (vulvovaginal).BMJ Clin Evid.
2015:0815
Hay P.Bacterial vaginosis.F1000Res.
2017;6:1761. doi:10.12688/f1000research.11417.1
American Academy of Family Physicians.Common Sexually Transmitted Infections.
National Library of Medicine.Bacterial Vaginosis.
of Health and Human Services Office of Women’s Health.Vaginal yeast infections.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Trichomoniasis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chlamydia.
Amabebe E, Anumba DOC.The vaginal microenvironment: The physiologic role of lactobacilli.Front Med.
2015;19(2):129-134. doi:10.1097/LGT.0000000000000062
