14/01/2026
❇️ Vaginal Discharge – What’s Normal and What’s Not
Vaginal discharge is a normal physiological secretion that helps keep the va**na clean, moist, and protected from infections.
The color, consistency, odor, and associated symptoms determine whether discharge is normal or abnormal.
1️⃣ Clear Discharge
→ Transparent, watery or stretchy (egg-white–like)
Meaning
→ Normal physiological discharge
→ Common during ovulation, pregnancy, or sexual arousal
When to worry
→ If associated with itching, foul odor, or pain, evaluation is needed
2️⃣ White Discharge
→ Milky or creamy in appearance
Meaning
→ Normal before or after menstruation
Abnormal signs
→ Thick, clumpy (curd-like) discharge
→ Associated itching, redness, burning
Possible cause
→ Vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)
3️⃣ Light Yellow Discharge
→ Pale yellow, non-offensive
Meaning
→ Usually normal, especially if odorless
When abnormal
→ Persistent yellow color
→ Strong smell, itching, or pain
Possible causes
→ Early infection or dehydration-related concentration
4️⃣ Green or Yellow-Green Discharge
→ Thick, frothy, or purulent
Meaning
→ Abnormal
Possible causes
→ Bacterial infections
→ Sexually transmitted infections (e.g., trichomoniasis)
Associated symptoms
→ Foul odor, itching, pelvic pain, dysuria
5️⃣ Gray Discharge
→ Thin gray or off-white discharge
Meaning
→ Abnormal
Most common cause
→ Bacterial vaginosis
Key feature
→ Fishy odor (especially after in*******se)
6️⃣ Red or Brown Discharge
→ Blood-tinged or brownish
Meaning
→ Normal during or shortly after menstruation
When concerning
→ Bleeding between periods
→ Post-menopausal bleeding
→ Persistent spotting
Possible causes
→ Hormonal imbalance, infections, polyps, or malignancy (rare)
🚨 When to See a Doctor
Seek medical evaluation if discharge is associated with:
→ Strong or foul odor
→ Itching, burning, or va**nal pain
→ Green or gray discharge
→ Fever or pelvic pain
→ Bleeding after menopause or between cycles
Medical Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Any persistent, recurrent, or symptomatic va**nal discharge should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Nurses Learning Corner
