Vaginal discharge is often normal, but smelly discharge or changes in colour, amount, or texture may be a sign of infection, irritation, or a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Quick answers about vaginal discharge, possible causes, and when to seek help.
Vaginal discharge is fluid that comes from the vagina. It can be normal and healthy, especially around ovulation, before a period, or during pregnancy. The amount and appearance can vary.
Discharge is often normal if it is clear, white, or slightly cloudy, has little or no smell, and is not causing itching, burning, or pain.
You should pay attention if discharge becomes yellow, green, grey, frothy, foul-smelling, unusually thick, or is linked with itching, burning, pain, or irritation.
Yes. Some STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis, can cause unusual discharge. You may also notice pelvic pain, burning when urinating, or bleeding after sex.
Yes. Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are also common causes of abnormal discharge. BV often causes a fishy smell, while yeast infections may cause thick discharge and itching.
Testing may be helpful if the discharge is new, persistent, smelly, unusual in colour, or if you recently had unprotected sex or a partner has symptoms or a positive STI result.
Seek urgent care if you have severe pelvic pain, fever, vomiting, heavy bleeding, or pain that is getting worse quickly.