For many women in High Desert, the topic of vaginal discharge might make them a little bit uneasy. While it may not be a topic that you bring up over dinner, we at Reza Ahmadinia OBGYN believe that you should feel comfortable and relaxed when discussing vaginal discharge with your OB/GYN.
We have compiled a list of questions that many women in Victorville and the surrounding area have about vaginal discharge, and we hope it helps you better understand your body.
What is Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge is created by the cervix, as well as the vagina. This discharge is completely normal, and women should have vaginal discharge on a regular basis. This fluid is designed to keep the vagina clean and lubricated. It also helps to protect the vagina from infection.
How Much Vaginal Discharge is Considered Normal?
There is no exact amount of vaginal discharge that is considered normal. Each individual woman will have a different amount of vaginal discharge that is considered normal for her. In fact, the amount of discharge not only varies from woman to woman, but also from day to day, depending on the woman’s menstrual cycle. Most OBGYN experts consider the normal range to be from no vaginal discharge to about a teaspoon of vaginal discharge each day.
What Does Normal Vaginal Discharge Look Like?
Hormones and the menstrual cycle will determine the appearance of vaginal discharge on a daily basis. For instance, immediately after a woman has finished menstruating, she may have very little discharge for a few days. It will then become sticky, yellow, and creamy. Near the time she ovulates, vaginal discharge will become clear, watery, and even stretchy. It will dry up shortly after ovulation takes place. Grey, brown, or green discharge, as well as mid-cycle spotting, should be addressed with your doctor.
Why Does the Appearance of Vaginal Discharge Vary Day to Day?
A woman’s hormones and menstrual cycle dictate the amount, consistency, and appearance of vaginal discharge. Women can even track their cycles according to the appearance of their discharge.
Does Vaginal Discharge Have a Smell? What Should I Do if It Has an Offensive Smell?
Normal vaginal discharge will have a faint odor or will not have any odor at all. It should not be an offensive smell. If a woman notices a change in the odor of her discharge, particularly if it becomes strong or offensive, it could be a sign of an infection. She should make an appointment with her OB/GYN.
Women who have additional questions about vaginal discharge are invited to discuss them in person with Dr. Ahmadinia. This can be done at an annual exam appointment, or if a woman feels that she may have a bacterial or yeast infection, she can set up an individual appointment.
Regardless of when and what type of appointment you have, just rest easy knowing that Dr. Ahmadinia will provide you with honest answers in the caring bedside manner that you’ve become accustomed to.
