In between menstrual periods, it can be common to find a water-like or sticky substance, called
vaginal discharge, in your underwear. This discharge can vary in consistency, and sometimes,
even colour. It can be difficult to determine what is normal, and what different colours or
textures mean for your body and your health. A good reason to pay attention to your discharge is
to keep track of the time of the month you are most likely to become pregnant. Whatever reason
you have to better understand your vaginal discharge, we are here to help.
Discharge Textures and What They Mean
Thin and Smooth
Usually, this sort of discharge is seen in the mid-follicular phase, which occurs before ovulation.
However, it can be seen throughout the month during all phases of your monthly cycle. It may be
especially prevalent when sexually aroused.
Creamy or Lotion-like
Creamy, lotion-like discharge can indicate the beginning of the ovulatory phase. Your estrogen,
the female reproductive hormone, is rising and preparing to release an egg.
Stretchy, Egg-White
If your discharge is sticky and feels like an egg-white, you are likely ovulating. This texture may
feel unusual, but it helps sperm travel towards the egg. It can be important to note the day of
ovulation for a number of reasons and this sort of discharge can be a sign to keep in mind.
Sticky or Tacky
After ovulation as you enter the luteal phase, your discharge may become a sticky texture until
your period starts. This is due to the rise of the hormone progesterone leading up to your period.
Discharge Colours and What They Mean
Clear or White Discharge
Your discharge may be clear for a number of reasons depending on its texture. A white tinge to
this discharge is typical. White discharge is healthy and common as well. However, it can vary
greatly in texture and intensity of colour. Cream and a slight yellow tinge are ordinary variations.
White discharge is only a cause for concern when it is a strange texture. Usually, a consistency
similar to cottage cheese means that you have a yeast infection. Pain during sex and urination,
along with redness of the vagina and vaginal area are some other symptoms typical of a yeast
infection that may come along with the unusual discharge. Though it can be painful, doctors and
even pharmacists can help by giving you some over-the-counter medicine that can alleviate
symptoms and cure the infection. Avoid douching, change wet clothes immediately, and practice
good hygiene to avoid yeast infections in the future. If you find yourself getting repeated yeast
infections, check in with your doctor to determine the cause.
No Discharge
There may be no discharge following your period, this means you are in your early follicular
phase. You will likely see an increase in discharge as your body approaches ovulation. However,
if you find that throughout the month there is little to no discharge, you may wish to speak to a
doctor. This may be a sign of hormonal imbalances or insufficient estrogen in the body.
Yellow or Green Discharge
Discharge that is slightly yellow is less common. If the change corresponds to change in diet or
the addition of a new supplement, as long as there are no other symptoms, this is not something
to worry about.
A darker yellow, yellow-green, or green colour are not normal for a healthy individual. They can
be a sign of a bacterial infection, or even a sexually transmitted infection. These colours may be
accompanied a thick, clumpy texture, a foul odor, or both. If you see this colour in your
discharge, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Grey Discharge
Grey discharge is a sign of bacterial vaginosis. Usually, this type of discharge is thin and has a
foul, fish-like odor. It may also be accompanied by discomfort or pain in the vaginal area.
Fortunately, this infection is easily treated with the help of a doctor, so make sure to make an
appointment if you are having these symptoms. Avoid douching and use barrier contraceptives
with new partners to avoid future bacterial vaginosis infections. If these infections are re-
occurring, make an appointment with your doctor to determine what may be going on with your
body.
Remember…
If you are experiencing any foul or unusual odor, or unusual consistency, it is probably best to
check in with a doctor. Understanding what is normal for you and keeping an eye out for any
inconsistencies is crucial for your health. Fibra is here for you, to help you monitor everything
from your discharge to your heart rate. By tracking your cycle for you, we can help you take
charge of your reproductive health.
References
Aswell, Sarah. “Vaginal Discharge Color Guide: What Is Normal?” Edited by Stacy A
Henigsman, Healthline, Healthline Media, 21 June 2023, www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-
discharge-color-guide.
“Bacterial Vaginosis.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 10
June 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/symptoms-causes/syc-
20352279.
Galain, Nicole. “Vaginal Discharge Color Guide: What to Know.” Edited by Valinda Riggins
Nwadike, Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 15 Apr. 2025,
www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322232.
“What Is a Yeast Infection?” Cleveland Clinic, 3 June 2025,
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5019-vaginal-yeast-infection.

