Family Planning Plus

If you’ve never had sex before, then there should be no risk of sexually transmitted infections. It is not possible to be infected through casual every day (non sexual) touching.

Vaginal discharge is normal. This discharge helps to maintain the vaginal pH level and prevent infections. The color and amount of discharge varies, depending on your cycle.

In the middle of your menstrual cycle, when you are most likely to be fertile, vaginal discharge is thin, clear and increased in amount. During the time right before your period, when you are least fertile, discharge tends to be thicker, creamier and white in color, and less in amount. This white discharge may dry yellow on your panties or pad. During your period, bright red to brown bleeding/discharge is normal.

Younger women tend to have more vaginal discharge, while older women (near menopause) tend to have less discharge. This is due to the decrease in estrogen levels as we age.

Abnormal vaginal discharge may be a symptom of a vaginal infection. Some infections, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, may be sexuallly transmitted. Other infections, like yeast and bacterial vaginosis are not. Vaginal discharge that is be yellow, green or gray and has a foul odor may indicate an STD. 

Yeast infections are characterized by thick, white, cottage cheese like discharge. There is usually no odor. Commonly, there is irritation and intense itching in and around the vaginal area. Over the counter antifungal medications (Monistat, Clotrimazole) are very effective at curing these infections.

Bacterial vaginosis usually causes thin, white milky discharge. The discharge tends to have a “fishy” odor that may be more pronounced after intercourse. There may be burning with urination or in the vaginal area. BV is diagnosed during an infection check by looking at the vaginal discharge under a microscope. It is cured by a 7 day course of antibiotics.

Neither yeast nor bacterial vaginosis are sexually transmitted, and you do not need to be sexually active for these to occur. They are caused by a disruption in the pH balance of the vagina.

If you feel that your vaginal discharge is abnormal, schedule an appointment with your doctor for an infection check.