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Forum Name: Obstetrics

Question: What is Normal Vaginal Discharge.

jns9 - Thu Feb 15, 2007 11:56 pm

Hi. I'm a 21 year old female who has been seeing the Ob-Gyn since I was 18. I am not sure what "normal" vaginal dishcarge is, but I feel that mine is not normal. I have asked my doctor to examine me, and she says I am healthy. The discharge has an unpleasant odor to it and can range from being white/cloudy to even yellowish. It sometimes is thick and stingy while can also be watery. It is very uncomfortable and makes me self-conscious sometimes. Often times I will just wear a tampon to help soak up the discharge to avoid the smell. Sometimes I can notice it outside my clothes. Should I get another opinion from the obgyn or is this normal? If it is...it stinks! HELP! I am not sexually active.

Dr. Chan Lowe - Tue Feb 20, 2007 8:03 pm

The amount of vaginal discharge that is "normal" can vary from woman to woman. Aditionally, cervical/vaginal mucous can change through out the monthly cycle to be more watery vs. thicker. Typically, however, "normal" vaginal discharge is not malodorous. Excessive discharge that has a bad odor can be a sign of a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, or another infection. These can be tested for by doing a microscopic evaluation of the discharge to look for yeast or excess bacteria. As you are not sexually active, STD's such as chlamydia and gonorhea are essentially ruled out. Any sexual contact can put you at risk for acquiring an STD, however; so if you have had any chance of being exposed I would recommend being evaluated for these as well. I would suggest following up with your gynecologist for reevaluation. If your doctor is in agreement it may be worthwhile to try an emperic treatment for a yeast infection since they are so common. Hope this helps.

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