Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is normal - most women and girls get it. It's a fluid or mucus that keeps the vagina clean and moist, and protects it from infection.

What is normal vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is not usually anything to worry about if it:

does not have a strong or unpleasant smell
is clear or white
is thick and sticky
is slippery and wet

You can get vaginal discharge at any age.

The amount of discharge varies. You usually get heavier discharge during pregnancy, if you're sexually active or if you're using birth control.

Vaginal discharge is often clearer and wetter and can be more noticeable when you ovulate between periods.

When vaginal discharge can be a sign of an infection

If your discharge changes - for example, in smell, colour or texture - it might be a sign of an infection. But do not self-diagnose - see a GP if you're worried.

Get help from NHS 111 if:

your vaginal discharge changes colour, smell or texture
you produce more discharge than usual
you feel itchy or sore
you bleed between periods or after sex
you get pain when peeing
you get pain in the area between your tummy and thighs (pelvic pain)

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Sexual health clinics can also help with abnormal discharge

Sexual health clinics treat problems with the genitals and urine system.

Many sexual health clinics offer a walk-in service, where you do not need an appointment. They'll often get test results quicker than GP surgeries.

Find a sexual health clinic

Things you can do to help with vaginal discharge

You cannot prevent vaginal discharge, but it's normal and usually nothing to worry about.

To help avoid irritation, soreness or dryness:

Do

wash the skin around your vagina gently using warm water and mild, non-perfumed soap

Don't

do not use perfumed soaps or gels
do not use deodorants or scented hygiene wipes
do not wash inside your vagina (douche)

Sexual Health Advice

Throughout this series we have help and advice on staying healthy, dealing with Sexually Transmitted Infections, the risks of each type of the most popular gay sex and what to do if the sex you have is not consentual. The topics covered in this series include:

	This item was in brought to you association with NHS website. Follow the links above for more information and don't forget to check out OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health which features items on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. This week our topic is: L - Lung Cancer.
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