About Vaginal Discharge
My Underwear Is Always Stained
What Should Discharge Smell Like?
I Get A Lot of Excessive Discharge
The first thing to know about vaginal discharge is that every woman experiences it, and it really isn’t a big deal. In fact, it’s actually a good thing.
The normal vaginal discharge consists of thin, light fluid that contains dead cells and vaginal bacteria. So, if you think of it, it is actually your body cleaning itself by releasing and discarding old cells. The amount of discharge, like a lot of physiological processes, differs from one woman to another. Additionally, it also depends on the time of your menstrual cycle. It’s most common at the beginning and the end of your menstrual cycle. In fact, it can be a cue for you. So, the next time you start to notice vaginal discharge around the time of your periods, keep a track of your periods accordingly
As mentioned earlier, there is nothing uncommon or unhealthy about vaginal discharge. However, pay attention to any changes which seem out of place. If the discharge causes irritation or pain, you may feel distress. One more thing that you may want to watch out for is your vaginal discharge having a foul odour. If you notice any of these, you should consult your doctor as it may indicate a yeast infection. Such excessive yeast growth is certainly not healthy, and needs to be given prompt attention.
CAREFREE® understands that such vaginal discharge can be really uncomfortable and even embarrassing in public. Liners are hence your saviors at such times. Use them the same way you use a sanitary pad to absorb excess discharge and leave you feeling dry and clean all day long. In case of heavy vaginal discharge, keep a spare liner in your bag and change it every 4-5 hours.
We understand that vaginal discharge can be uncomfortable and even make you uneasy. However, look at it as a natural cleaning process and ensure you maintain proper hygiene to minimize the discomfort.
My Underwear is Always Stained
Question: All of my underwear is stained. From just everyday wear, and wearing liners is a pain, is there anything I can do to stop this happening? Pls help. :'(
Dr. Farah Kroman: Vaginal discharge is very normal. It can be a little acidic so it can discolour your underwear. As long as it's not lumpy or particularly smelly it's normal. If you'd like to protect your undies from this discharge you may like to use breathable panty liners.
Question: Why dose my discharge eat my undies. i no it sounds crazy but its happening every time I put then in the wash.
Dr. Farah Kroman: Normal vaginal discharge can be a bit acidic and so can eat the dye off your underwear. I suggest you use a breathable liner to protect your underwear.
CHLAMYDIA? SMELLY DISCHARGE
Question: A few months ago i had sex with some one who told me the next week he had an STI clamidia i think and i was wondering do that mean i have it too..? and i have this relly smelly wight discharge and its gotten worse laterly is there any way i can make it go away.. ? PLEASE help me :o
Dr. Farah Kroman: It's good that he was honest with you. Chlamydia is treatable and is very important to treat in women as it can lead to problems with fertility - see your doctor. Even if it's not this infection you need to get treatment for the unhealthy discharge.
Discharge After Giving Birth
Question: Hi, Since having my daughter 7 months ago, I have noticed that my discharge has been leaving stains in my underwear. It's almost like it's eating away at them. Occasionally it does get an off smell to it. Is this normal after giving birth? I have had a pap smear since but I'm guessing it came back OK as I didn't hear anything from it.
Dr. Farah Kroman: Discharge is normal and is there to keep you healthy. It prevents infection, lubricates and has a role in conception too. It can vary in colour from clear to white and can go from thin and watery to thick and gooey. It should have a bit of a smell but should not smell bad. While our bodies change gradually all through life, about 7 months after childbirth your body should have returned pretty much to normal.
Discharge Smells
Question: I read one of your other questions and got me curious as to what discharge is supposed to smell like because I am not so sure
Dr. Farah Kroman:That’s a very good question and one that I can’t really answer accurately. Basically, It should have a bit of a smell but should not smell bad. Every woman smells differently so really it depends on you. Definitely discharge that smells fishy, yeasty (think vegemite or beer) or like old blood is abnormal and should be seen to by your doctor.
I Get a Lot of Excessive Discharge
Question: This is really embarrassing as I've never spoken to anyone about it. My question is why do I get so much discharge between my periods? I know it's normal to get discharge but I get so much that I have to wear a tampon not a panty liner because there is so much. I'm so embarrassed and self conscious about it and I don't know if it's normal or if any other girls get it as much as I do. It feels like I'm continuously on my period because if I don't wear a tampon I can feel the discharge coming out. Please help!
Dr. Farah Kroman: Discharge is normal and is there to keep you healthy. It prevents infection, lubricates and makes it easy for sperm to reach your uterus when you are trying to have a baby. The amount of discharge can vary quite a bit during the cycle - around the middle of your cycle when you are ovulating, there will be more and it can be quite watery. Generally wearing a liner and changing it a few times during the day should be enough to help you feeling dry and fresh. However, the amount you describe does sound excessive and could indicate an infection. See your GP to get some swabs and perhaps some treatment if an infection looks likely.
