All Wet

One of the most common concerns I hear from patients is about their vaginal discharge. "I have an infection…I’m too wet…I’m too dry…I’m dripping all the time…" Some women come into my office multiple times a year because they’ve noticed a change in their secretions. But vaginal discharge is a good thing--it's actually a sign of a healthy, working vagina.

What vaginal discharge means:

• Your vagina is keeping herself clean, just like when your skin sheds cells all day long
• Your vagina is keeping herself lubricated, so she doesn't stick to herself (ouch)
• Your vagina is actually protecting herself from infection, by forming a slippery barrier between you and the outside world
  

What vaginal discharge doesn't (necessarily) mean:

• You have an infection. I promise, most vaginal discharge is normal, especially when it changes throughout your cycle: from white and thick, to clear and stretchy, to downright watery.
  
• You're not keeping yourself clean. Discharge has NOTHING to do with how often you wash or shower.
  

Okay, what discharge MIGHT mean:

• You've developed a non-STD infection, like bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection.
• You've caught an STD, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomonas.
• You're pregnant.
• You're on the birth control pill.
• You're sexually aroused.
  

So what should you worry about? Changes such as color, consistency, amount, and/or smell of your vaginal secretions that are not like your normal monthly changes. Abnormal vaginal discharge may also come with itching, soreness, rash, a burning sensation when peeing, or pain. If you have any of these symptoms, see your gyno for an exam.

Do any of you have discharge worries?