Gynecologist Reveals Vagina Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Just like the rest of the female reproductive system, talk of vaginal discharge is shrouded in taboo. And yet understanding this normal bodily function is an essential part of being able to monitor your overall and reproductive health.

Gynecologist Dr. Melanie Bone, U.S. medical director at gynaecological health company Daye, has listed the various symptoms related to vaginal discharge that could indicate underlying health issues.

"It's important to remember that discharge is a natural and necessary part of vaginal health, as it aids in cleaning and protecting the vaginal tissue," Bone told Newsweek. "Healthy vaginal discharge contains lactobacilli, which produce the lactic acid you need to keep harmful bacteria and pathogens at bay. It also ensures that your vagina is moisturized and prevents small tears and discomfort."

Of course, your vagina's needs change throughout the month in line with the menstrual cycle. And so too does your discharge. "Healthy vaginal discharge is typically clear to milky white and may vary in consistency throughout the menstrual cycle," Bone said.

"After menstruation, it's normal for vaginal discharge to be brownish as it helps expel remaining period fluid. It's also normal for there to be less discharge following your menstrual period because estrogen and progesterone levels are low.

"As you get closer to ovulation, estrogen levels increase, which results in more discharge that is stretchy and clear, almost like an egg white consistency. After ovulation, progesterone levels rise and it usually goes back to being stickier and cloudier until your next period. "

Discharge can also vary depending on environmental factors like hormonal contraception, medication and stress. However, it is important to be aware of any changes in your usual discharge cycle.

"Significant alterations in color, texture, smell, or amount should prompt consultation with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health issues," Bone said.

In particular, it's important to look out for the following:

• "Discharge that is frothy, bubbly or has a fishy odor could indicate bacterial vaginosis.
• "Discharge with a thick, clumpy white consistency like cottage cheese, along with itching/burning, is the classic sign of a yeast infection.
• "Persistent brown and bloody discharge could signify more worrisome diagnoses such as uterine or cervical cancer. Those definitely require prompt medical attention to get treated.
• "Any discharge accompanied by fever or pelvic pain needs an immediate visit to your gynecologist or an at-home STI [sexually transmitted infection] screen, as you could be experiencing chlamydia, gonorrhea or trichomoniasis."

It is important to note that not all vaginal infections and STIs are symptomatic, so just because you don't have unusual discharge does not mean you shouldn't go for regular screenings and check-ups.

"The most important thing is to not be squeamish or judge your own discharge negatively," Bone said. "Getting familiar with what's normal for your body is key to catching any potential issues early. Your vagina has an amazing self-cleaning system, so trust that process and don't upset the balance of your vaginal microbiome, which supports your reproductive health. And remember that a little extra discharge here and there is rarely a reason to panic."

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