You might have a lot or a little discharge, both of which are normal. Your discharge will typically be thicker and stickier around the time you ovulate, which occurs at around 14 days after the first day of your period. Additionally, your discharge might look thicker and milkier right before your period.
You can try feminine washes made especially for your vaginal area. However, make sure that they’re unscented. Don’t wash inside your vagina because it will unbalance your natural pH and likely increase your discharge. You only need to clean your external area.
It’s okay to use moist wipes to clean yourself, but don’t use them if they have a fragrance.
Change your underwear at least once a day so that they’re clean.
It’s okay to wear underwear if you’re on your period and feel more comfortable wearing a back-up pad.
For instance, wear pants that don’t fit too tightly or opt for a flowy skirt. Clothing like tights, pantyhose, tight pants, swimsuits, leotards, and bicycle shorts can trigger excessive discharge because they don’t let your vaginal area breathe.
You may only need to wear a panty liner during certain times in your cycle. For instance, it’s normal for your vagina to produce more discharge around the middle of your menstrual cycle when you ovulate.
Similarly, washes that contain fragrances to cover your natural smell may trigger unwanted discharge and irritation. If you feel like you need a douche, talk to your doctor about your concerns.
Read the label on your detergent to find out if it has a fragrance. Some detergents are even labeled as “fragrance free. ” You might consider using a detergent that’s specifically made for delicates to wash your undergarments.
You may need to try multiple forms of birth control before you find one that works for you.
Douching Antibiotics Birth control pills Diabetes Certain infections Pregnancy Stress Scented feminine care products
Your doctor can prescribe a short course of treatment for your infection, which will be a cream, suppository, or pill. Take your prescription exactly as directed, and you should feel better in 2-3 days. You may be able to use an over-the-counter yeast infection treatment. However, it’s best to get an official diagnosis first. [15] X Research source
White, gray, or yellow vaginal discharge Fishy odor, especially after sex or bathing Itching Burning Redness and swelling around your vagina or vulva
Bubbly discharge that is watery, yellowish, or greenish An unpleasant odor Pain and itching during urination
For instance, yellow discharge might be a sign of gonorrhea.
