Watery Vaginal Discharge - Mucus Like Discharge
Vaginal discharge is mucus-like secretion from the vagina. It may vary in consistency, color, and smell. The glands inside the vagina and cervix make a small amount of fluid everyday and this fluid is expelled in the form of vaginal discharge. It is the body’s way of keeping the vagina clean and healthy. Mostly, vaginal discharge is controlled by changing hormones in a woman’s body. In other words, the discharge will vary depending on which stage of the menstrual cycle the woman is in. While watery vaginal discharge is normal, excessive discharge indicates an underlying pelvic inflammatory disease.
Normal vaginal discharge is white and sticky. While it does have a slight odor, it should never cause burning or itching. Indications such as a strong odor, change in color, change in consistency, and itching are not normal, and a doctor should be consulted in such cases. More often than, such changes indicate the presence of some kind of infection.
Vaginal Discharge Ovulation
During ovulation, the discharge may be slightly thicker and increased. Other cases when the discharge is increased, but is still considered normal, include emotional stress, sexual excitement, and pregnancy. However, low estrogen levels, sexually transmitted diseases, and bacterial or vaginal infections could result in abnormal vaginal discharge. Abnormal discharge may also be the result of excessive douching, intimate sprays and cleansers, antibiotics, and allergies. Apart from the changes in the color and odor of the discharge, as mentioned earlier, you may also experience abdominal pain, fever, and itching and burning. These are symptoms of an unhealthy or a disturbed vagina.
As mentioned earlier, white, odor-free, watery vaginal discharge is normal, and it is at times increased in certain situations. Hence, you need not worry about such discharge. However, if you notice anything amiss, such as the indications given above, you should consult a doctor. Given below are a few pointers to help you keep your vagina healthy and infection-free.
Keep your genital area clean and dry.
- Wear cotton underpants during the day and looser underpants at night. This will allow your genital area to breathe.
- When using toilet paper, always wipe from the front to the back so as to avoid getting the bacteria from the rectal area near your vagina.
- Always use condoms to avoid the transfer of sexually transmitted diseases.
- During menstruation, change sanitary napkins/tampons every 3 to 4 hours, regardless of the flow. Prolonged use can sometimes result in vaginal infection.
- If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar levels under control.People with diabetes are more prone to infections.
