Ever had that moment when, after pulling down your panties, you notice a discharge with a colour you are not familiar with? The next moment, you are wondering, ‘What’s up?’ and what could have led to a change in the color of your vaginal discharge.
Most of us have had that experience, and if the skipping of your heartbeat is anything to go by, then it is true that vaginal health is important, and we should not overlook it.
The colour of your vaginal discharge goes a long way to determine the state of your reproductive health, and you should pay attention to it, especially when it is not the usual.
Different colours of vaginal discharge mean different things, and just before you start worrying, your pretty head should read our complete guide to what each colour of your discharge means.
1. Blood red or dried brown
Red or brown bloody discharge is normal during your period. Colors might range from cherry-red at the beginning of your period to rusty brown. But if you do see red throughout the month, it could be a sign of a health issue, like an infection. The reasons for a blood-red or brown discharge could also be a hormonal change or the birth control pills you are on.
2. Creamy and milky white
A variety of white shades of discharge, from eggshell to cream, can be normal. Unless your discharge is accompanied by certain textures or smells, don’t fret too much. A white discharge does almost the same thing as a clear discharge: it keeps your vagina lubricated during sex and keeps your vaginal tissues healthy.
3. Pale yellow to neon green
A very light yellow discharge could be more normal than you think. Most times, it appears in your discharge, and your diet is usually the cause. A green-yellow discharge, on the other hand, could be a sign of an infection. Have it checked.
4. Blush to deep pink
Pink discharge, ranging from a very light blush to the deep pink of a sunset, is often just a sign of the beginning of your cycle. But at other times, it can be a sign of a serious health problem. Some women usually see blood discharge after sex, so this could be another reason for a pinkish discharge.
ALSO READ: All You Should Know About Vaginal Yeast Infection: Its Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
5. Clear
Clear discharge, which can also be whitish in color, is usually normal. It may have an egg-white-like consistency. It’s also the go-to discharge a healthy body expels to rebalance itself—because your vagina is an amazing, self-cleaning organ. This colour usually occurs during your ovulation, pregnancy, or when you are aroused; all are absolutely normal.
6. Cloudy gray
When white turns to gray, like storm clouds or exhaust, see your doctor or call your OB-GYN. It could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is a very common infection in women. Your doctor will likely prescribe antibacterial ointments or oral antibiotics.
You should get a check-up if any of these discharge colours are accompanied by itching, pain, a burning sensation during urination, a foul odor, and blood discharge unrelated to your menstrual cycle.