What Is Clear Sticky, Stretchy Discharge A Sign Of?

Noticing slight dampness in your panties? Err! Vaginal discharge is back at it. But this time, you notice something different. It is clear, stretchy and sticky vaginal discharge. Before you start worrying, remember that vaginal discharge works as a defence mechanism. It keeps infections at bay and helps in maintaining the pH levels of your vagina.

Through your menstrual cycle, your vaginal discharge keeps changing. Clear, stretchy and sticky discharge is one of the many versions of your vaginal discharge. Understanding what’s causing it is important. To help you out, we’ve decoded the causes of clear sticky, stretchy discharge along with when to seek medical attention. Read on to know more!

• What Causes Clear Sticky or Stretchy Discharge?
• How much discharge is too much?

Heard about cervical mucus? Well, the clear stretchy discharge before the period appears in your panties might be it. As your body approaches ovulation, your vagina tends to secrete clear, sticky vaginal discharge. This occurs almost in the middle of your menstrual cycle when your body releases an egg for fertilisation. During this time, there’s a rise in oestrogen levels in your body. It leads to clear, sticky, stretchy discharge which may have an egg-white-like consistency. This discharge helps the sperm to swiftly manoeuvre towards the cervix and aid the fertilisation process. If you are trying to conceive, monitoring your vaginal discharge is essential. It would help you track when your fertile window is approaching.

This clear, sticky discharge can also leave you feeling a bit icky down there. At times like these, using the ALWAYS Extra Protect Pantyliners is the best option. It comes with odour-neutralizing technology that keeps you fresh and confident. These liners come with extra length for that added coverage. They are dermatologically tested and safe for gentle skin.

Clear stretchy discharge could also be an early sign of pregnancy. Once ovulation is over and if the eggs get fertilised, this stretchy discharge becomes a little thick. It is the by-product of rising oestrogen and progesterone. This type of clear, sticky, odourless vaginal discharge continues to last for up to eight weeks. Not just that, as your pregnancy processes, your body creates more vaginal discharge. This helps to keep any vaginal infections at bay.

You might have noticed clear and stretchy discharge during or just before intercourse. It’s your body’s involuntarily response to sexual arousal. Your body secretes this discharge to lubricate your vagina and prepare it for intercourse. This type of discharge is also called arousal fluid.

If you’ve hit menopause, the chances of experiencing clear, sticky vaginal discharge are relatively low but not nil. It’s because in this phase, the hormone levels - oestrogen and progesterone, keep declining and these fluctuating levels can sometimes, lead to clear, sticky discharge. However, if you notice that your discharge looks yellow or white, or has an odour, you should consult a doctor immediately. It could be a sign of infections like thrush or bacterial vaginosis.

Certain medicines like birth control pills or antibiotics can affect the hormonal levels or the bacterial growth in your body. This can cause vaginal dryness and thereby lead to clear, sticky discharge.

Vaginal discharge keeps changing throughout your menstrual cycle. In such a situation, finding a clear distinction between normal and excessive clear, sticky discharge becomes tricky. What might be excessive for one might be light for another. The best way to keep up with it is by using pantyliners like the ALWAYS Multiform Protect Pantyliners. These are thinner than 1mm and offer a fresh scent. The breathable design provides comfort and long-lasting freshness. These liners are dermatologically tested and are gentle on delicate skin.

Experiencing clear, sticky vaginal discharge is quite normal. However, it becomes a cause of concern when the colour of the discharge changes or it starts smelling funky. In such cases, it is typically a sign of infection for which medical assistance is required.

Apart from the colour and odour, you should also consult a doctor when the clear, sticky discharge is accompanied by other symptoms such as:

1. Fever
2. Redness or soreness around your vulva
3. Burning sensation in your vagina
4. Painful intercourse
5. Pelvic pain
6. Pain in the abdomen

Takeaway

Clear, sticky or stretchy discharge can occur at any point of time in your menstrual cycle. The prime cause of this type of discharge is ovulation or pregnancy. It’s quite normal to notice this type of discharge. However, if you notice any sudden change that doesn’t feel usual, speak to a doctor. Don’t hesitate with your question. Ask your doubts freely as this is the best way to stay steer clear of any nasty vaginal infections that might be coming your way!

Now keep a track of your ovulation period with Always Fertile Days Calculator.

Disclaimer:

Please note the date of the 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, protection and comfort of its consumers.