Thick White Discharge: Meaning, Causes, and When to Be Concerned
If you’ve been menstruating for a while, you’d have noticed that menstrual discharge isn’t the only discharge that you get. During some days in your menstrual cycle, you would also be getting a kind of white vaginal discharge. Don’t worry, there’s nothing wrong with having white discharge. In fact, it is completely normal and good for your vaginal health. It simply means that your vaginal health is in top form and your vagina is functioning as it should.
When you get white discharge, it is an indication that your vagina is doing its job of self-cleansing and the discharge is the end result of preventing any infections in your vagina. The consistency of vaginal discharge may differ time to time, and woman to woman – ranging from thick white discharge to clumpy or sometimes even milky white discharge.
It is crucial to note that there are instances when certain kinds of discharge, particularly those that have a foul odour or strange colour, could indicate an underlying problem or may be an infection. You must therefore be observant and keep an eye out for any peculiar changes in smell, colour and consistency. But how would you identify which white discharge is normal and which could indicate a problem?
We’re here to help you out. Below is a lowdown on the different types of white discharge, what they could indicate and symptoms that would warrant a consultation with your doctor, and what small pads for white discharge are best for your intimate hygiene.
What Does Different Type Of White Discharge Indicate?
What Does Thick White Discharge Indicate?
Thick white discharge, also known as leukorrhea occurs at any point in your menstrual cycle, predominantly during your ovulation period. It starts out thin but as soon as your ovulation period approaches, it becomes thick, mucus-like. Some women even consider thick, creamy white discharge as an indicator of an intermediate level of fertility. So, if you are someone who is trying to get pregnant, this thick white discharge can help you know when is the right time to have sexual intercourse. Keep in mind that not every white discharge before period or after is a sign of pregnancy.Keep a track of your ovulation period with Always Ovulation Calendar and Period Calculator.
What Does Thick White Clumpy Discharge Indicate?
Thick white clumpy discharge in women can be an indication of yeast infection. As you may know, your vagina maintains its pH levels on its own. But sometimes, these levels get disrupted, leading to the formation of infections. Among the many fungi, a fungus called 'Candida Albicans' causes vaginal yeast infection.
If you have a yeast infection, there are chances you might experience the following symptoms:
- Thick, cottage-cheese like white discharge and itching
- Redness or irritability around your vulva region
- Foul odour from your vagina
- Burning sensation while urinating
In mild cases, over-the-counter treatments are advised whereas in prolonged yeast infections, consulting a doctor is the right choice.
What Does Thick, White Sticky Discharge Indicate?
Thick white sticky discharge occurs when you're not ovulating. It's your body's way of creating a barrier for the sperm and preventing it from entering the uterus. It also keeps germs and bacteria at bay thereby preventing infections at large. This can help you keep your vagina healthy.
Thick white sticky discharge occurs when you're not ovulating
What Does Milky White Discharge Indicate?
Milky white discharge is a common type of vaginal discharge that a woman experiences. This type of discharge usually occurs in the first few days of your menstrual cycle. It's a way of your body preparing itself for ovulation. On the other hand, the milky white discharge in women could also be a sign of pregnancy. It's because, in the early stages of pregnancy, as the hormones within your body change it tends to produce thin, milky white discharge.
Usually, it's odourless but you may want to wear a panty liner or small pads for white discharge management. Thus, make sure to keep your favourite Always Panty Liners or Always Pads handy. You could opt for the Always Extra Protect Panty Liners which are dermatologically tested to be gentle on your skin. It also comes powered with odour neutralizing technology with up to 100% odour protection that keeps you feeling fresh and confident. Now, don’t worry even on days when you have excessive white discharge as these liners are Extra Long in size for extra coverage.
If you prefer to choose small pads for white discharge protection, then you can try the Always Ultra Thin Pad. Its Superior Fit helps you stay discrete. These are the ideal small pads for white discharge as they come equipped with a Super Absorbent Core that absorbs wetness in seconds and a Clean and Dry top cover that ensures you stay dry and comfortable all day long.
Largely, it isn't something to be concerned about, unless the discharge turns into a white-greyish colour or it develops a strong fishy odour. Then it could be a sign of an infection for which you will need to visit your doctor.
When To See A Doctor
Experiencing white discharge is quite normal as it assures the health of your vagina. However, if you experience unusual vaginal discharge, then you must visit a doctor.
Few symptoms to watch out for
- Itching
- Skin irritation or darkening around the vagina
- Pain
- A bad odour
- Rashes or soreness around the vagina
Likewise, if you notice clumpy or yellow, green or brownish discharge, then you need to get it treated as it may be a sign of infection.
Every woman experiences a different type of white discharge throughout her menstrual cycle. Thus, it is important for you to keep a track of the odour, colour and consistency. This will help your doctor to determine the underlying condition easily and treat it faster and better.
Keep a track of your ovulation period with Always Ovulation Calendar and Period Calculator.
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, protection and comfort of its consumers.
