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Discharge before periods: Is it normal?

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Did you know- Vaginal discharge is your body's way of keeping you well-hydrated and clean down there.

Intimate hygiene - Discharge before periods: Is it normal? - Para 1

[Vaginal discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/what-is-vaginal-discharge) is a common sight throughout a woman's menstrual cycle. A thick or thin mucous liquid is discharged from the vagina, especially before your period. The colour may vary depending upon the hormonal function of your body, but it is usually white or yellowish.

At the same time, it is fair to wonder: is this discharge before periods normal? And the answer is yes. Vaginal discharge is mostly a normal occurrence and there is no reason to fret. Here's a bit more information about it that will clarify your doubts.


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<span>1</span> [What is vaginal discharge?](#link1)

<span>2</span> [Vaginal discharge and fertility](#link2)

<span>3</span> [What are the types of vaginal discharge?](#link3)

<span>4</span> [Causes of vaginal discharge](#link4)

<span>5</span> [Seeing your doctor](#link5)

<span>6</span> [Controlling vaginal discharge](#link6)

What is Vaginal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a fluid that is produced in the cervix and vagina. In addition to this fluid, it contains cells that are shed from the vagina. It keeps you well-hydrated and clean. It corrects the pH levels and maintains the wellbeing of your vagina.

Think of it as your tears that are produced to keep your eyes moisturized and free from irritants. The discharge essentially reduces the risk of irritation and infection down there. Interesting, right? Well, the vagina has its natural way of protecting itself. 

Did you know- Vaginal discharge is your body's way of keeping you well-hydrated and clean down there.


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<h2>What is Vaginal Discharge?</h2>

Meaning of stretchy thin vaginal discharge

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Stretchy, thin mucus is considered a sign of fertility due to the potential release of eggs.

It’s a Way to Track Fertility

The occurrence of vaginal discharge is widely seen as a way to track fertility. This method is known as 'fertility awareness method' or 'natural family planning method'.

If the discharge is in the form of stretchy and thin mucus, it is considered a sign of fertility due to the potential release of eggs. Thick and [white discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/what-does-white-discharge-in-women-indicate), on the other hand, is regarded as an indicator of lower fertility. This kind of mucous discharge may be commonly noticed at the start of your period or between ovulation.


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<h2>It's a Way to Track Fertility</h2>

Knowing the Types of Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge may be experienced in the following types:
<ol>
<li><h3 class="charpcos" style="display: inline;">White or Clear</h3>
White or clear discharge is normal and usually occurs a few days before your period. There may be an increase in discharge during ovulation, sexual arousal, and pregnancy. 
  </li>
<li><h3 class="charpcos" style="display: inline;">Gray</h3>
Gray discharge before or after a period is not normal. If you notice such abnormality, you must consult your doctor immediately. </li>
<li><h3 class="charpcos" style="display: inline;">Pink</h3>
Light red or [pink discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/pink-discharge-what-does-it-mean "Pink Discharge Guide") commonly occurs at the onset of a period. A red-hued discharge may also be noticed at the time or after sexual intercourse.</li>
<li><h3 class="charpcos" style="display: inline;">Green or Yellow</h3><br>
Light [yellow discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/yellow-discharge-all-you-need-to-know "Yellow discharge causes") is normal. However, if you notice a darker green-coloured mucous discharge, consult your doctor. Learn what could [green discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/green-discharge-what-does-it-indicate "Green discharge") mean.</li>
<li><h3 class="charpcos" style="display: inline;">Brown</h3><br>
You are likely to experience [brown discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/should-i-be-worried-about-brown-discharge) before or after your period. The light spotting can be triggered by several hormonal changes led by pregnancy and birth control. </li>
</ol>

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<h2>Knowing the Types of Vaginal Discharge</h2>

Causes of Vaginal Discharge

Discharge before your period is triggered by several hormonal fluctuations in your body. The causes of vaginal discharge before your period usually include:

<ol>
<li><h3 class="charpcos">Birth control</h3>
You are likely to experience heavy discharge when using birth control. It is a side-effect of birth control and is caused by a change in hormonal levels. </li>
<li><h3 class="charpcos">Sign of Pregnancy</h3>
Experiencing discharge before your period can also be a sign of pregnancy. The discharge is usually 'creamier' than normal. However, it is hard to tell and you must take a pregnancy test to confirm. </li>
<li><h3 class="charpcos">Sexually Transmitted Infection</h3>
Sexually transmitted diseases are likely to cause vaginal discharge. The texture of the discharge is yellowish and pus-like, you can easily spot the difference. STDs like gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and trichomonas will cause a smelly discharge accompanied by itching. </li>
<li><h3 class="charpcos">Yeast Infection</h3>
Yeast infections are most likely to happen before your period. There are no known causes, but the heavy use of antibiotics is understood to be a possible reason. <a href="/en-za/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/the-tell-tale-signs-of-vaginal-discharge-with-yeast-Infection" title="All about cottage cheese like discharge">Discharge with yeast infection</a> is usually very thick and white. It also causes vaginal itching and may give you a burning sensation. </li>
</ol>

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<h2>Causes of Vaginal Discharge</h2>

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Vaginal discharge is a natural function and a completely normal occurrence before your period. 

When Should You Visit Your Doctor?

Vaginal discharge is a natural function and a completely normal occurrence before your period. The discharge keeps your vagina healthy and acts as a natural lubricant. However, do keep an eye out for discharge that is smelly or greenish-brown in colour. Be cautious if you experience itchiness and discomfort.

In such cases, it is best to visit your doctor and evaluate the condition to stir away from any possible underlying causes. 


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<h2>When Should You Visit Your Doctor?</h2

Controlling Vaginal Discharge

__Vaginal white discharge before period__ is completely normal but can put a damper on your shine. Not to forget, it can ruin your fancy panties and clothing (in case of heavy discharge). While there is no way to control your discharge, you can manage it by using hygiene products like panty liners. ALWAYS has a range of [panty liners](/panty-liners) that are specially designed to absorb heavy vaginal discharge and keep you dry. You can choose from a range of sizes and absorbencies. ALWAYS panty liners also adapt to your active movements, so you never feel constrained.

Additionally, you can also explore Always [sanitary pads](/sanitary-pads) and [tampons](https://always-africa.com/en-za/tampons) for all your menstrual needs. 

Here's a complete setp by step guide on [how to use a tampon](/tips-and-advice-for-women/intimate-hygiene/how-to-use-a-tampon-step-by-step-guide) to maintain intimate hygiene.


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<h2>Controlling Vaginal Discharge</h2>

Period Calculator Link

Keep a track of your ovulation period with Always [Ovulation Calendar](/period-calculator) and Period Calculator.


__FAQ's__

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#ba5cf0">1. What does discharge look like before period?</h2> 

<br>
If you’re unsure about <strong>what does discharge look like before</strong> you get your <strong>period</strong>, then you’re one of many girls and women who have the same question. Typically, you notice white <strong>discharge before</strong> your <strong>period</strong>. It’s filled with fluid and cells that are being shed from the vagina and happens when the level of the hormone progesterone is high in your body. It may even look slightly yellow at times. You can manage this <strong>discharge before period</strong> with Superior quality <a tabindex="0" target="_self" href="/en-za/panty-liners" alt="">Always panty liners</a> that are perfect for daily hygiene.
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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#ba5cf0">2. How many days before period can you get discharge?</h2>	

<br>
Vaginal discharge is a normal part of the menstrual cycle, and you could notice some before a period too. However, one or two days before a period begins are typically the driest of the cycle. If you see discharge on these specific days chances are that you are dealing with yeast infection.

Disclaimer

Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; [Always pads prioritize safety](/about-us/inside-always-pads-safe), protection and comfort of its consumers.

<h2>Disclaimer</h2>

Types of Discharge: Discharge before periods can be white, yellow, pink or watery. Click here to know more about types of vaginal discharge that can occur before periods.


Discharge Before Period: Types of Vaginal Discharge & their Causes | Always <Country_Name>

Wondering what is the white or yellow discharge before periods?  Click here to know about white or watery discharge, yellow or pink discharge that can occur before periods.

Discharge before periods: Is it normal?

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