The vaginal discharge are simply an everyday fact of life for most women. However, the color, odor, and consistency of vaginal discharge aren't exactly a popular topic of conversation. In fact, it's a topic that many women would rather avoid altogether, even in a medical setting. At our office, we know that vaginal discharge is more than just normal—it's an important way for our bodies to cleanse themselves and provide us with important information. To be proactive about your health, you should know which ones Which vaginal discharge is normal and which is not? Here are some of the common vaginal discharges and what they could mean for your body:

→ Thick and white: normal as your period begins and ends. Essentially, vaginal discharge is a combination of water, bacteria, and dead cells from the lining of the vaginal walls. During puberty, the vagina begins to shed these dead cells, which are abundant as the body experiences hormonal changes. Even though your vaginal discharge is usually clearer, you may notice a thicker, whiter discharge before the start and after the end of your period.

→Clear and watery: normal at certain times. While changes in consistency are a good reason to contact your gynecologist, some fluctuations in the thickness and whiteness of vaginal discharge are actually quite normal throughout your cycle. Vaginal discharge thickens before and after your period, but it also becomes more watery and clear at other times of the month. You may also notice clear, watery vaginal discharge after strenuous exercise.

→ Brown discharge: normal right after your period. It's easy to connect the dots when your discharge turns red during a period or when you notice periodic pink or red spotting around ovulation. But what if your discharge is brown? This is simply a sign of oxygenated blood that your body is still "cleaning" after a period.

→ Odorless or mild odor: usually normal. Healthy vaginal discharge is usually odorless or almost odorless, but the vagina itself can produce mild odors throughout the day. Your reproductive system has complex ways of cleaning and balancing itself, so if your discharge has a mild odor, you probably have nothing to worry about. Limit your own efforts to regular showers and clean underwear, rather than throwing your vaginal balance off with products that may cause side effects.

→ Itching and thick discharge : it's not normal. Itching is always a red flag. If your vaginal discharge has recently become thicker or whiter and you're also experiencing uncomfortable, chronic vaginal itching, you may have a yeast infection or other form of infection that needs to be treated. Vaginal discharge accompanied by itching is not normal.

→ Yellow or green discharge: is not normal. Vaginal discharge should be white. If you are menstruating, ovulating, or pregnant, you may have some red or brown color to your discharge, due to blood and tissue. However, it is not normal to have yellow or green color to your discharge. These colors indicate that your body is fighting an infection. Regular screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) is important for any sexually active person, but it is necessary if you experience yellow or green vaginal discharge.

Being aware of your bodily fluids is vital to your overall health. When you know what kind of vaginal discharge is normal, you also know how to spot changes when they occur, making it easier to treat or prevent complications. The annual gynecological exams are important for the same reason. Whether you want to know what kind of vaginal discharge is normal or abnormal, or you are overdue for a check-up, make sure your gynecologist is informed about your health status. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment at (+30) 2310 220267.