White Discharge Causes, Types, and Care

• Researched and written by: Dr Archita Rai, PhD (Life Sciences)
• Medical inputs by: Dr Poonguzhali Liston, MBBS, MS OBG, FMAS, DRM, FRM, CIMP
• Medically reviewed by: Dr Yash Bahuguna, MBBS, MS, DNB, ISGE Certified Practitioner for PCOS
  

TL;DR

• White discharge is a normal fluid produced by the cervix and vagina to keep the area clean, lubricated, and protected from infections.
• Its amount and texture change with hormones across the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. It is commonly seen from before puberty through menopause.
• Seek medical attention if discharge has a strong smell, causes itching or discomfort, or becomes unusually thick or lumpy.

What Is White Discharge?

White discharge, or leukorrhea, is a normal fluid made by the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina) and the vagina. This fluid helps keep the vagina clean and naturally lubricated. It usually contains mucus from the cervix, cells shed from the vagina, and healthy bacteria mixed with fluids. Your hormone levels can affect the color and consistency of this discharge.[1,2] White discharge is usually healthy as long as it is not accompanied by a bad odour or other symptoms.[3]

How Does the Menstrual Cycle Influence White Vaginal Discharge?

Hormones play a key role in how your white discharge appears. When estrogen levels are high, discharge tends to be watery, clear, or stretchy. On the other hand, when progesterone levels are high, the discharge may appear more cloudy or white. Since these hormones naturally shift throughout the menstrual cycle and different life stages, the appearance of white discharge changes accordingly.[1]

Estrogen levels rise as your body prepares for ovulation after your period ends, and as this happens, discharge often becomes thin, clear, watery, or stretchy. These changes continue through the days leading up to ovulation. When ovulation occurs, the amount of discharge may increase further and appear slippery and mucus-like. Many people compare such discharges to raw egg whites. A slippery discharge in this phase is usually in preparation for the sperm to move easily toward the egg awaiting fertilization.[4,5]

After the egg is released and travels down the fallopian tube, the luteal phase of the cycle begins and continues until the day before the next period starts. During this time, progesterone levels rise and eventually peak. As these hormonal shifts occur, the amount of thin, runny, white discharge may start declining slowly and appear thicker, stickier, and cloudier during the days before periods.

Menstruation occurs after the luteal phase ends, and during this time, it is common to see a brown, red, or bloody discharge. Discharge in these colors is normal only during menstruation. If you notice it at other times in the cycle, it's worth discussing with your gynecologist. Once bleeding starts, discharge is often less noticeable as both estrogen and progesterone levels are low. Immediately after your period ends, slight dryness and a lower amount of discharge are also common.

At the end of menstruation and in the days that follow, the follicles in your ovaries begin to grow. During this follicular phase, white discharge may appear thin, milky, or sticky. For some women, it has a lotion-like consistency that gradually becomes more opaque as the cycle moves closer to ovulation.[4,5]

Other Life Phases or Activities That Affect White Discharge

In pregnancy, the amount of white discharge may increase due to increasing estrogen levels. It often appears white and sticky during this phase.[3] Some women notice more watery discharge during pregnancy, while others feel comparatively dry. Changes in the amount of discharge may also accompany breastfeeding because of hormonal shifts, and these patterns vary from person to person. Similarly, being on birth control pills alters hormonal levels and can affect the appearance and quantity of white discharge.

Being sexually aroused or engaging in sexual activity is also typically accompanied by an increase in white discharge, adding to a feeling of “wetness” and helping keep your vagina comfortably lubricated.

As women age and progress towards menopause, estrogen levels begin to decline. The lining of the vagina may become thinner, and some women experience dryness. The amount of natural discharge often decreases during this phase, which can reduce overall lubrication.[6]

While most white discharge is normal and varies with hormonal fluctuations, there are times when changes may signal something more serious. 

In a nutshell: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, birth control pills, sexual arousal, and menopause can all affect how your white discharge looks and feels.[1,4,7]

What Is Abnormal White Discharge?

You may experience abnormal white discharge due to an infection, irritation, or hormonal issues, and may require medical attention. White discharge may be considered abnormal if it increases excessively or suddenly, or comes with:

• A strong or unusual smell
• Thick, lumpy, cottage-cheese-like texture
• Yellow or green discharge
• Intense itching or burning
• Pain during urination or sex
• Bleeding when not menstruating
• Redness or swelling around the vulva
• Pelvic or abdominal discomfort

You should be watchful of these symptoms, as they could be a sign of an underlying issue.[1,3]

What Are the Common Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?

Abnormal white or whitish discharge can result from various causes, including infections, reactions to specific products, or underlying medical conditions.

Some of the major infections that cause abnormal white discharge include[1,2]:

• Vaginal yeast infection (candidiasis): Symptoms often include thick, clumpy white discharge, intense itching, burning during urination, redness, or swelling.
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV): Although BV often causes thin, greyish discharge, many women perceive it as off-white. Typical features include thin, watery discharge, a strong fishy smell, and symptoms that are worse after sex.
• Cytolytic vaginosis: A lesser-known condition caused by overgrowth of Lactobacilli (the “good” bacteria). Symptoms may include thick, white discharge, burning, and irritation, which are often mistaken for those of a yeast infection.

Abnormal white discharge may not always happen because of infections.[1,3] Other possible causes include:

• Irritation or allergic reactions: White discharge may increase when the vagina is irritated by scented soaps or washes, pantyliners or pads with fragrance, harsh detergents, or synthetic underwear.
• Foreign body: A forgotten tampon, condom fragment, or tissue can cause foul-smelling or unusual discharge.
• Diabetes: High blood-sugar levels may increase the risk of recurrent yeast overgrowth, leading to abnormal white discharge.[7]

Most of these causes can be medically managed with proper treatment and care.

How Can a Health Care Provider Help?

It can sometimes be challenging to distinguish between normal and abnormal discharge. You should consider seeing a healthcare provider if you notice any signs of abnormal white discharge.

A gynecologist can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. During the visit, they may start by taking a brief medical history, including your symptoms, menstrual cycle, lifestyle, and sexual health. They may then perform a pelvic examination and assess the color, smell, and texture of the discharge. If necessary, the gynecologist may recommend collecting a small sample of the discharge for quick and simple testing. They may also recommend additional tests, such as blood sugar checks or infection screenings, depending on the symptoms you are experiencing.

It’s common to feel nervous before an intimate examination, but remember that gynecologists are trained professionals who deal with these concerns daily. If you ever feel uncomfortable or need clarification, you can always ask questions or request a pause.

Treatment and management

Your gynecologist may recommend treatment options based on the underlying cause of your symptoms. They may recommend antifungal medications for yeast infections, antibiotics for BV or certain other infections, or estrogen creams for atrophic vaginitis in menopause. They may also advise you to avoid irritants and may start with treatments for underlying conditions like uncontrolled diabetes.[1,6,8]

Important: Avoid using over-the-counter vaginal creams or medications without a prescription. Misuse can worsen symptoms or disturb the vaginal balance. 

How Can You Care for Your Vaginal Health?

While most causes of abnormal white discharge can be managed medically if needed, a few healthy habits can help keep your intimate area clean and comfortable.[1,2]

Maintain gentle hygiene

Some basic hygiene precautions can help maintain cleanliness and prevent infections.

• Clean only the external area (vulva) using plain water or a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
• Do not douche or insert water, soaps, or cleansers inside the vagina—the vagina is self-cleaning.
• Change pads or tampons every 4–6 hours (more often in heat or heavy flow).
• Avoid scented products such as perfumed pantyliners, wipes, vaginal washes, or intimate deodorants as they can irritate the vaginal lining.

Choose comfortable clothing

Clothes or fabrics that trap moisture are not advisable for extended wear, as they can create a damp environment that may increase the risk of irritation or infection.

• Wear cotton or moisture-wicking underwear to allow airflow and reduce moisture build-up.
• Avoid very tight clothing (like tight leggings or synthetic underwear) for long periods, especially in warm or humid environments.
• Change out of wet swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes as soon as possible to prevent excess moisture that supports yeast or bacterial growth.

Have a healthy diet

Good overall health supports the immune system and maintains a healthy balance in the body.

• Limit high-sugar or highly processed foods, as they may contribute to yeast overgrowth.
• Include probiotic-rich foods, such as curd/yogurt, kombucha, kefir, or fermented foods, to support healthy vaginal flora.
• Drink 2–3 liters of water per day to stay hydrated, which helps maintain consistency of healthy discharge.
• Reduce excess refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, pastries, or sugary drinks, to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Frequent blood-sugar spikes may promote yeast overgrowth, which is known to cause abnormal white discharge.[9,10]

Practice safer sex

While white discharge during sex helps with lubrication and makes the experience more comfortable, safe sexual practices ensure it does not lead to any harmful effects.

• Use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that may affect discharge.
• Choose body-safe, water-based lubricants that are pH-balanced and fragrance-free. Avoid those with added perfumes or warming agents if you have sensitive skin.
• Ensure adequate lubrication during sex. Friction or dryness can cause irritation, inflammation, and abnormal discharge.

Reduce stress and support immunity

High and prolonged stress can affect hormones and immunity, making you more prone to infections. These habits may help:

• Aim for 7–8 hours of restful sleep each night.
• Reduce or avoid caffeine after late afternoon if it disrupts sleep.
• Include regular physical activity, gentle yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to support hormonal and immune balance.

Takeaway

White discharge occurs naturally throughout the menstrual cycle and is influenced by hormones and age. It may not be a cause for concern unless you notice changes in smell, texture, or other symptoms. If that happens, you can consult your gynecologist, who can then guide you. As a continuous practice, you can support your vaginal health by maintaining gentle hygiene and prioritizing your overall well-being.

FAQs on White Discharge

Can white discharge be prevented?

No. Most white discharge is normal and healthy. Only abnormal symptoms may need attention.

Do home remedies like inserting curd or honey help?

There is no evidence. Curd or honey may disturb the vaginal pH and worsen symptoms.

Does white discharge cause weakness?

Normal discharge does not cause weakness. Fatigue usually has unrelated causes.

Can hygiene prevent abnormal discharge?

Good hygiene helps, but cannot prevent all infections; hormones and pH changes also play a role.

Can diet affect white discharge?

Possibly. High-sugar diets may worsen yeast imbalance, while probiotic foods may support healthy flora.

References

1. American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. Vulvovaginal Health. Accessed December 17, 2025.

2. National Health Service UK. Vaginal discharge. Accessed December 17, 2025.

3. American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. Is it normal to have vaginal discharge? Accessed December 17, 2025.

4. American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. Fertility Awareness-Based Methods of Family Planning. Accessed December 17, 2025.

5. Thiyagarajan DK, Basit H, Jeanmonod R. Physiology, menstrual cycle. StatPearls Publishing. Accessed December 17, 2025.

6. American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. The Menopause Years. Accessed December 17, 2025.

7. Angelou K, Grigoriadis T, Diakosavvas M, Zacharakis D, Athanasiou S. The Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: An Overview of the Recent Data. Cureus. 2020 Apr 8;12(4):e7586.

8. O’Laughlin DJ, McCoy RG. Diabetes and Vulvovaginal Conditions. Clin Diabetes. 2023 Mar 27;41(3):458–64.

9. Mohammed L, Jha G, Malasevskaia I, Goud HK, Hassan A. The Interplay Between Sugar and Yeast Infections: Do Diabetics Have a Greater Predisposition to Develop Oral and Vulvovaginal Candidiasis? Cureus. 2021 Feb 18;13(2):e13407.

10. Gunther LSA, Martins HPR, Gimenes F, de Abreu ALP, Consolaro MEL, Svidzinski TIE. Prevalence of Candida albicans and non-albicans isolates from vaginal secretions: comparative evaluation of colonization, vaginal candidiasis and recurrent vaginal candidiasis in diabetic and non-diabetic women. Sao Paulo Med J. 2014 Apr 1;132(2):116–20.