Discharge Guide: Colors, Types, and When To See a Doctor

Vaginal discharge is a natural part of your body’s health. It helps keep the vagina clean, balanced, and protected. But changes in color, texture, or odor can be confusing, and sometimes they’re a signal to pay closer attention. Understanding what’s normal and what’s not gives you the power to care for your health with confidence.

What discharge actually is

Discharge is a mix of fluid and cells that your vagina produces. The amount and look can change throughout your menstrual cycle, during ovulation, or in response to hormones. Paying attention to these changes helps you understand your body’s patterns.

Types of discharge and their meaning

✨ Clear and stretchy
Often looks like raw egg whites. This usually means you’re ovulating a normal sign of fertility.

✨ Thin or milky white
Light and creamy discharge is often normal at the beginning or end of your cycle.

✨ Thick and white (cottage cheese-like)
Can signal a yeast infection, especially if you also notice itching or irritation.

✨ Yellow or green
If thick, clumpy, or paired with odor, this may point to an infection such as trichomoniasis or bacterial vaginosis. Time to get checked.

✨ Grayish-white with fishy odor
A common sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), which requires treatment.

✨ Brown or bloody
Spotting can be normal around your period or after sex. Frequent or unexplained spotting outside your cycle should be evaluated.

When to see a doctor

• Discharge with a strong or unusual odor

• Color changes to green, gray, or very dark

• Itching, burning, swelling, or pain

• Pain during sex or urination

• Unexplained bleeding between periods

Everyday tips for balance

 Choose breathable cotton underwear
 Change out of damp workout clothes quickly
 Avoid harsh soaps or scented products near the vagina
 Support your balance with probiotics or a pH-friendly wash if recommended

Bottom line

Discharge is your body’s natural way of protecting itself, but changes can sometimes signal infection or imbalance. Knowing the difference between normal and abnormal helps you take charge of your health and seek care when it’s needed.