What Is Vaginal Discharge: Symptoms, Causes, and How to Manage It
If you are a woman who has already had her period, vaginal discharge is no longer a foreign concept to you. Almost every month, your reproductive organs or vagina will produce a clear fluid. Usually, the amount of this fluid increases as your period approaches.
Actually, the appearance of this mucus-like fluid is very normal. You will even need it very much because this mucus can keep the intimate area clean and moist. In fact, it can help prevent fungal and bacterial infections in your vagina.[1]
However, not all vaginal discharge is normal. There is also abnormal vaginal discharge that needs to be addressed immediately because its effects on health are quite serious. Therefore, learn more about the characteristics, triggers, and ways to manage vaginal discharge!
Characteristics of Normal and Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

From the explanation above, you can surely conclude what the general symptoms of vaginal discharge are. It is marked by the discharge of a clear, mucus-like fluid from the vagina that has a thick and sticky texture. It is not uncommon for it to be milky white. Normally, this fluid has no odor.
However, the situation will not be the same if its appearance and odor are different. If there are other signs besides the characteristics of normal vaginal discharge above, then there is a high possibility that the vaginal discharge you are experiencing is abnormal. Its characteristics vary, as follows:
- Yellowish, yellow-green, gray, bloody mucus, or other impurities.
- An unpleasant odor comes from the mucus and the vagina.
- More liquid mucus texture.
- Pain when urinating and having sexual intercourse.
- Pelvic pain.
- There are sores in the vaginal area.
Triggers of Normal and Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

As previously mentioned, the cause of vaginal discharge is to keep the intimate area free from infection. In addition, vaginal discharge also usually appears when you are ovulating and ready to be fertilized. That is why this mucus is present to make it easier for sperm to enter the uterus.
You will also know this normal vaginal discharge by the term cervical mucus. The cause is changing hormones. By observing it, you can know when you are likely to get pregnant. When there is fluid that looks and has a texture like raw egg white, it means you are in your fertile period.[2]
However, if the vaginal discharge is abnormal, there are several things that cause it, namely:
1. Bacterial Infection in the Vagina
As the name suggests, this disease appears due to a bacterial infection. Generally, there are several things that can indicate you are experiencing this disease. The most noticeable thing is the unpleasant odor of the mucus, as well as its thinner texture and gray color.[3]
2. Fungal Infection in the Vagina (Thrush)
In addition to bacteria, fungi can also cause the mucus discharged from your reproductive organs to be abnormal. This is marked by the mucus color becoming more yellowish and cheese-like. In addition, your vagina will feel itchy and sore when urinating and having sexual intercourse.[4]
3. Trichomoniasis
Not only from infection, dangerous vaginal discharge can also come from parasites. The signs are yellow-green mucus and an unpleasant odor. Then, your vagina will feel itchy and swollen, as well as painful when urinating and having sexual intercourse.[5]
Usually, the cause is that you engage in risky sexual activity (changing partners) and do not use a condom.
4. Gonorrhea
This sexually transmitted disease comes from bacteria and is transmitted through sexual activity such as penetration and sharing sex toys or aids. Its color is yellow-green and accompanied by blood. Your pelvis will also feel painful when you have this disease.
5. Herpes
If there is colored and odorous mucus and sores in the vagina, then you may have herpes. Usually, the genitals will also feel itchy and burning.
For your information, all diseases related to abnormal mucus are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). So, make sure not to have sexual intercourse while you are experiencing abnormal vaginal discharge symptoms.
Ways to Manage Normal and Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

In general, ways to manage vaginal discharge will vary depending on the severity. If you only have normal mucus, you only need to maintain vaginal hygiene and manage your body and mind so you do not get stressed and tired.
However, if you have abnormal vaginal discharge, see a doctor immediately because you may have an STD. Professional help and vaginal discharge medication will be very much needed in this condition and situation.
In addition, you can also help speed up the treatment process with herbal supplements such as Sido Muncul Pewangi Bulan. This supplement is made from natural ingredients that are effective in preventing vaginal discharge and making the menstrual cycle much more normal.
So, after you know what vaginal discharge is and its effects on health, do not forget to prevent it by taking these herbal pills. You can take 1-2 capsules at once every day 5 days before and 5 days after your period. Make sure to read the directions for use on the packaging.