Types of Vaginal Discharge: What Each Colour Means & When to See a Doctor

You are in a bathroom. You pull down your pants to pee. While you pee, you also see some vaginal discharge that has a weird colour. Have you ever experienced this in your adult life?

They brighten up your day, affect your mood and at times, make you feel vibrant. However, seeing different colours of discharge when it comes to vaginal discharge can be discomforting. Discharge colours can vary - from brown, pink, green and yellow discharge - it can be a rainbow of colours at different times. The colour of each discharge tells you something interesting is taking place in your body. This article will shed light on the different types of discharge and what they mean.

If you have ever wondered about the types of discharge and what they mean, then look no further. The colour and consistency of the discharge indicate different phases of your menstrual cycle. Any unusual colour and consistency of vaginal discharge could be a sign of bacterial imbalance, an infection, or the presence of a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

But how do you distinguish between a normal and safe discharge? What discharge colour warrants a visit to the gynaecologist? Let's find out.

Vaginal discharge always correlates with the phases of your menstrual cycle. So, the best way to understand the different colours and textures is by looking at the discharge through the lens of your menstrual cycle. Here is a quick primer.

When: Days 1 to 5

This is the starting period of your cycle and is characterized by bleeding. The discharge is usually red or pink in colour, as the inner lining of your uterine sheds tissue.

When: Days 6 to 14

After your period has ended, you may have less vaginal discharge than usual. This is the period when the eggs begin to develop; the cervical mucus or discharge will seem noticeably cloudy and white or yellow. The shade could vary from white to cream or light yellow. If you have no other symptoms, a white discharge whitish discharge is a sign of healthy lubrication.

However, if the consistency is like that of cottage cheese and if the discharge has a strong odour, it could indicate an infection. You must consult a doctor in this case.

When: Days 25 to 28

This period is towards the end of your menstrual cycle where you will notice your discharge lighten and reduce. The shade could also range from light to a deeper pink. The pink discharge is due to the spotting that you get before your next period.

Apart from red, white, clear, and pink colours, there are two more types of discharge. If you spot any of these, it is best to consult a doctor immediately.

This shade is not healthy and could be a symptom of a common bacterial infection called bacterial vaginosis. Its other symptoms include itching, irritation, strong odour, and redness around the vulva.

If you notice a discharge that is a dark shade of yellow, yellowish-green, or green discharge then it is usually a sign of a bacterial or sexually transmitted infection.

Brownish discharge is rather common when you are nearing the end of your period or even after it. This discharge colour could range from light brown initially to rusty brown eventually.

Vaginal discharge odour is rather normal, but it should not be too strong or overpowering. If you notice that there is an unpleasant smell accompanying your discharge, then it is possible that you have vaginal infection. Foul smell that is accompanied by changes in texture or colour, could indicate that it might be a matter of vaginal infection.

The volume of vaginal discharge varies from woman to woman. For some, it may not be too bothersome, while for some, it can get extremely uncomfortable and unmanageable.

In either case, wearing panty liners can be of great help. They are easily the best and safest way to manage routine vaginal discharge. They are not only a lighter version of sanitary pads but also do an excellent job of absorbing all the discharge and keeping the external area clean.

If you have never used a panty liner before, you can start by exploring the Always range to choose the best fit for your body. Liners are suitable for daily wear as they are flexible and reliable. Moreover, Always panty liners are formulated with an absorbing zone and odour-neutralizing technology that help you stay fresh and confident throughout the day.

Your body has healing powers, but sometimes when it is not able to heal an issue by itself it tries to warn you. You should see the colour and consistency of your vaginal discharge as indicators. If your discharge changes significantly in colour or texture or if your usual discharge is characterized by an itch, foul odour, or pain, it's time to see a doctor.

When it comes to vaginal discharge, there are some instances when you will need to drop everything and go see a doctor. Listed below are a few signs that things might be amiss:

Odour: If you are struggling with vaginal discharge and you notice that the discharge colour has changed, it smells awfully different or perhaps has become heavier.

Pain: Developing pelvic pain may need medical intervention.

Itching and burning: If you experience itching, swelling burning or soreness around your vagina, you must consult with a healthcare professional. You can also look up ‘types of discharge and what they mean’ for more insight on the matter.

If you feel enlightened about the ‘types of discharge and what they mean’, then be sure to pass on this article to a friend or anyone who might need to read it.

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