What could excessive white discharge from the vagina mean?

Vaginal discharge in women has a physiological significance and a specific function as well. The glands present in the cervix and the walls of the vagina secrete a white coloured liquid that keeps infections at bay by flushing out bacteria and dead cells from the intimate area. However, the degree of discharge, colour and consistency varies from one woman to another.

‘Vaginal discharge in a healthy woman is usually considered to be normal that signifies optimal functioning of the glands and internal hormonal secretions,’ says a consultant gynecologist. That said, excessive white or vaginal discharge, at times, could mean or be indicative of certain infections or a health crisis.

What could excessive white discharge signify?
Excessive white discharge at times can be normal and harmless. There are times when certain physiological changes in the body lead to excessive secretions; here are a few such circumstances.

Ovulation: Apart from the glands in the cervix and walls of the vagina that initiate a healthy discharge, hormones in the body also play a role in contributing to the same. ‘During ovulation the progesterone level in the body is high which leads to a heavy or continuous discharge from the vagina. This is normal and is a healthy sign in a woman of reproductive age,’ reassures the Dr. For the same reason you might notice a clear and steady discharge from your vagina for few days prior to your periods. 

Sexual excitement: Vaginal discharge or secretions act as the perfect natural lubricant for a smooth and gentle intercourse. The hormones that sensually arouse you are also the ones that initiate a steady secretion from the vagina. At times, it could lead to excessive discharge, as compared to your normal secretions. 

Pregnancy: A clear milky discharge from the vagina which might be mild with a musky smell is perfectly normal during pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase vaginal discharge too. This has a hidden benefit; though the excess flow can be annoying at times, vaginal secretions help keep urinary tract infections that are otherwise common during pregnancy at bay. The secretion is supposed to maintain a healthy environment in the area for good bacteria to thrive on. In fact the amount of the secretions can increase prior to labour, lubricating the birth canal for normal delivery. The only time you should worry about vaginal discharge during pregnancy is when you spot droplets of blood or experience spotting. 

Stress: Modern day women are more prone to the perils of stress that reflects on their health and well-being. Stress is a major cause for hormonal imbalances within the body; this could lead to excessive vaginal discharge as well. Even though excessive discharge due to stress is considered harmless, it is not wise to ignore the signs of stress as it isn’t a healthy way of living.

When should you worry about excessive vaginal discharge?
Excessive vaginal discharge should raise an alarm if you notice the following signs accompanied with the same:

Change in colour of the secretions: If you notice that the colour of your vaginal secretions has changed from being a clear-milky fluid to yellow or is green in colour with a foul smell to it; this is likely to be a sign of an infection. ‘It could be indicative of a fungal, bacterial or viral infection. This sign could also serve to be an early symptom of a sexually transmitted disease,’ informs the Dr. 

Change in consistency: If you notice a change in your secretions along with some pain and change in the colour it should make you wary enough to head to your doctor and get a thorough checkup done. ‘Sometimes in teens this can also be suggestive of worms infestation in the stomach,’ says the Dr. 

Burning and itching sensation: Excessive discharge along with a burning or itching sensation indicates that the infection has got hold of your private areas and needs immediate medical attention.


Painful intercourse: Pain during intercourse despite the secretions by your vagina that helps to serve like a lubricant indicates that there is a chance of an infection or crisis that needs a thorough evaluation by the doctor. 

What you can do?
Visit your gynecologist: It is better to visit a gynecologist when you experience any change in the secretions of your vagina to get a detailed evaluation done. ‘If your vaginal discharge indicates any kind of UTI, it can be treated effectively with medications. At times one might also be advised to go for a pap smear to be screened for cervical cancer which is common among women,’ says Dr Mehta. Treatment of an STD might be required if you suffer from one.

Keep your vaginal area clean: Hygiene plays an important role in keeping the vaginal area healthy and free of infections. So maintain high levels of cleanliness to keep your privates free of infections. Avoid perfumed washes and douches as they could disrupt the normal pH balance of the area. Washing with warm water and a mild vaginal wash twice a day should serve the purpose.

Have a balanced diet: In a subtle manner, diet also helps to maintain vaginal health and fight infections. Avoid foods that are acidic in nature and include more fruits and yoghurt, as this can neutralize the acid content in the body.

Get some rest: Adequate rest is essential as it strengthens the immune function, protecting you against various infections and it is also necessary for the optimal functioning of the human body.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.    

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