If you’ve ever looked down and thought, “Why is there so much discharge in my underwear?”—you’re not alone. Vaginal discharge is one of the most common reasons women seek care, and yet it’s one of the most misunderstood parts of our reproductive health.
Here’s the truth: discharge is normal. Your vagina is self-cleaning, and discharge plays a key role in protecting against infections and keeping things in balance. But when that discharge changes in volume, colour, smell, or consistency, it can be a sign that something else is going on.
Let’s break it all down—from what’s healthy to what’s worth getting checked out.
What Is Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a combination of cervical mucus, vaginal secretions, and normal bacteria. It helps flush out dead cells and maintain the right pH to keep your vagina healthy.
Normal discharge:
- Clear or milky white
- Odourless or mild-smelling
- Varies in amount depending on your cycle
- Can be stretchy, slippery, or creamy
Discharge that may signal a problem:
- Yellow, green, or grey
- Foul or fishy odour
- Thick and cottage cheese-like
- Accompanied by itching, burning, or pain
Common Causes of Increased Discharge
- Hormonal Fluctuations
- Ovulation: Many women experience a stretchy, egg-white discharge mid-cycle.
- Pregnancy: Increased oestrogen boosts discharge to protect against infection.
- Birth control: Hormonal contraceptives can also increase or alter discharge.
- Sexual Arousal
- Arousal fluid is different from vaginal discharge but often gets confused. It’s thin, clear, and produced by glands during sexual excitement.
- Infections
- Yeast infections: Thick, white discharge with intense itching.
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV): Thin, grey discharge with a fishy smell.
- Trichomoniasis: Frothy, yellow-green discharge often with irritation.
- STIs (e.g. gonorrhoea, chlamydia): Can cause unusual discharge but may also have no symptoms.
- Pelvic Floor Dysfunction or Irritation
- Chronic UTIs, pelvic floor tension, or use of certain soaps/products can throw off your vaginal microbiome, causing excess discharge.
When Should I Worry About Vaginal Discharge?
See a doctor or telehealth provider if you notice:
- A sudden change in smell, colour, or amount
- Itching, burning, or swelling
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Pain during sex or urination
You know your body best. If something feels off—trust your gut and get it checked.
How Can Telemedicine Help With Vaginal Health?
Let’s be real: going to a clinic for vaginal symptoms can be embarrassing, time-consuming, or just downright inconvenient. That’s where we come in.
June Health offers at-home STI and vaginal health testing, backed by real doctors and fast results. You can:
- Get tested from your couch
- Talk to a clinician online
- Get discreet treatment sent to your door
We’re making vaginal healthcare easier, safer, and judgement-free.
Breaking the Stigma: Your Discharge Is Nothing to Be Ashamed Of
Let’s kill the shame right here. Vaginas are meant to discharge. It doesn’t make you dirty. It doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you.
In fact, ignoring discharge because you feel embarrassed can delay care and lead to bigger health issues. And for First Nations women, migrant communities, and LGBTQIA+ folks, stigma can be even greater. That’s why June is committed to culturally safe, inclusive, and accessible care.
Your body deserves to be listened to. You deserve care that meets you where you are.
FAQs
What does healthy discharge look like?
Clear or white, mild-smelling, and varies across your cycle.
Can stress or diet affect my discharge?
Yes. Stress, medication, and even changes in diet or hygiene can shift your vaginal microbiome.
Can I treat abnormal discharge at home?
Some causes (like BV) require antibiotics. Self-treating with home remedies or douching may make it worse.
Need answers? We’ve got you.
Book a discreet telehealth appointment or order your at-home vaginal health test today through June Health. Because discharge should be normal, not stressful.
