What is vaginal discharge?

What woman hasn't experienced the issue of vaginal discharge? It's true that it doesn't necessarily need to be a concern once you put it into perspective and understand why it happens. And yes, everything has a logical explanation. This is even more true when it comes to our bodies protecting themselves and ridding themselves of impurities that slow down their proper functioning. But then, what exactly is this discharge? Why do some women have far more of it than others? And above all, should we be alarmed when it occurs? No need to panic, ladies — we explain everything!

Vaginal discharge: what is it exactly?

This discharge is primarily due to the elimination of dead cells, but also of impurities present in the uterus, its cervix, and the vagina. The body cleans itself for its own well-being. Typically, leucorrhoea (the medical term for vaginal discharge) begins shortly before our first period.

It will then accompany us throughout our lives as women until the menopause.

This is because it is secreted by female hormones (oestrogen). It therefore makes sense that at the menopause it disappears along with the oestrogen. The flow can vary from light to moderate or even heavy. This depends on the stages of a woman's life and her physical and psychological state.

Does the colour of vaginal discharge matter?

It is usually white, slightly yellow, or translucent. This varies between women, but also depends on how they are feeling at any given time. Indeed, a very tired woman will tend to have less translucent and more abundant discharge. In any case, there is nothing alarming about having heavy discharge, provided it is not malodorous and does not change colour (beyond those mentioned above).

Bear in mind that this is a completely normal and natural phenomenon. However, if you notice a strong or unpleasant odour and a change in colour, you should seek medical advice. This means you have an infection.

And if the colour changes, what does that mean?

If the leucorrhoea is dark and, above all, gives off a foul odour, this is a sign that your body is unwell. It signals that a pathogenic element is present in that area. The causes are varied. We will therefore give you an overview of the most common ones.

In first place, there are yeast infections (thrush), which are caused by fungi. They occur following a weakening of the balance in this environment. Because, let us not forget, we are surrounded by viruses and bacteria, but it is only when we are weakened that they infect us. Take the example of flu-like illnesses: we often fall ill after a period of severe fatigue.

With thrush, it is the same in the majority of cases. Thus, taking medication, severe fatigue, stress, or excessive hygiene can all create a favourable environment for this infection. After yeast infections come sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which alter the normal colour of the discharge.

Why is leucorrhoea more abundant at certain times?

At certain stages of your life, you will notice an increase in discharge. This is the case just before your period arrives. But also during pregnancy. Indeed, the increase in oestrogen levels will trigger the mass production of cells. And therefore also a rise in the level of dead cells that the body will need to eliminate. In addition, there will be a strong blood flow for the benefit of the foetus, which will produce mucus. This, too, will be eliminated through vaginal discharge.

During the final month of pregnancy, discharge will increase as the baby begins to descend. In this case, it will be very liquid. It can also happen that a woman experiences heavy discharge when she is very tired or stressed. And this is one of the most frequent reasons for its occurrence.

What is vaginal discharge: a peaceful lifestyle to avoid making things worse

Leucorrhoea is natural and necessary; however, you must listen to your body and respect it. Easier said than done when we know that our lives are full and that we want (a small feminine flaw) to be at our best in every area. In this race for excellence, our well-being often falls by the wayside or, at best, ends up at the bottom of our list of priorities. So here is what we say: it is time to change things! Think of yourself and listen to your needs. Give yourself moments of relaxation (massage, a bath, reading...). Because, make no mistake, stress is one of the factors that aggravates vaginal discharge. Not to mention fatigue, which can trigger it. So, if you cannot sleep because a little one has got their days and nights muddled, do not hesitate to lie down for a rest when they do during the day.

Vaginal discharge: do not overdo intimate hygiene

During these episodes of discharge, many women tend to wash frequently. But as strange as it may seem, washing too often is harmful to the vaginal flora. Indeed, if you only use water, there will be no adverse effect.

But using soap — especially one with a high pH — will destroy the barrier formed by your vaginal flora. Once weakened, it will no longer be able to fight off infections. So reduce the frequency of intimate washing and favour neutral, natural soaps. Your choice of underwear is also important. Opt for cotton, as we know that synthetic fabrics cause irritation. Finally, favour cotton panty liners.

Vaginal discharge: a helpful sign when trying to conceive

As you have understood, leucorrhoea is essential to the balance of the uterine and vaginal area. But beyond this balancing function, it also lubricates the walls of the uterus and its cervix excessively, thus allowing sperm to reach their goal. Indeed, without this fluid they would be unable to progress towards the egg.

Finally, this discharge should not be confused with the fluid secreted by a woman during sexual arousal. The latter is produced by specific glands for that purpose.