Is it normal to have a lot of vaginal discharge?

What does a lot of discharge mean? Fluctuations in the amount of discharge you experience are linked to the hormone levels in your body. This means that the amount and consistency of your discharge varies throughout your menstrual cycle as your oestrogen, progesterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (also known as FSH) fluctuate to signal your ovaries to prepare an egg for release. Ovulation typically brings about increased discharge. If you are asking yourself why do I have so much watery discharge, the simplest answer is that the increase in the volume of discharge may be related to sexual excitement and the preovulatory period, as well as breastfeeding. During each phase of the cycle, significant differences in the appearance of the mucus can be seen and more vaginal discharge may appear. The main role of the mucus that appears is to moisten the vagina and protect it from infection.

Increased vaginal discharge can be a physiological phenomenon: during pregnancy, sexual arousal, on certain days of the monthly cycle - before and during ovulation. If it is not accompanied by other changing symptoms of the genital tract, such as burning, itching, or pain, and the mucus does not have an unpleasant odour, it should not cause concern. If the symptoms persist or if other disturbing symptoms of the reproductive tract occur, we suggest visiting your GP or a gynaecologist. Certain infections and diseases can cause changes in secretions:

1. Yeast infection

Changes in the vaginal environment can contribute to excessive growth of thrush in the vagina. This can happen when taking antibiotics, using strong body cleansing products, and with conditions such as diabetes or diseases that weaken the immune system occur. During a yeast infection, the discharge becomes thick, white and may resemble cottage cheese, and there is itching in the vaginal area.

2. Bacterial vaginitis (BV)

This is a bacterial infection that can occur when the balance in the vagina is disturbed. This is when bacteria proliferate and excessive vaginal discharge appears, which can be white, grey or green in colour. Such discharge is accompanied by a strong fishy smell and itching and burning.

3. Sexually transmitted infections

These types of infections also cause changes in the discharge. It may turn yellow, grey or green, it may be thicker or thinner and there may be an unpleasant smell. Chlamydia and gonorrhoea, for example, cause such changes in the discharge. Therefore, it is important to regularly get checked up for sexually transmitted diseases.

4. Hormonal imbalance

The most common hormonal changes occur during the peri-menopausal period and during the menopause. During this time, oestrogen levels can fluctuate and fall dramatically, leading to various changes in vaginal discharge. In the same way, changes in discharge can be caused by hormonal contraceptives, endocrine diseases and certain medications.

The purpose of vaginal secretions is to moisten the vagina and cervix, in addition to removing old cells and preventing infections. There should be a moderate amount of clear and odourless mucus in the vagina. Normal vaginal discharge occurs in different amounts during the different phases of the cycle. This is due to the fact that the glands of the endometrium work according to a rhythm set by the hormones. The discharge can also change due to the use of hormonal contraception. Its colour, consistency or smell is individual to each woman. It is most often translucent or white in colour but can also be pink or brown if mixed with menstrual blood.

As long as your discharge is not itchy, smelly, greenish brown coloured or uncomfortable (outside of any discomfort from feeling wet), it is usually considered as normal. In very rare cases, lots of vaginal discharge can be caused by inflammation of the cervix. Remember, in case of any concerns, visit your doctor especially with new symptoms. It is a good idea to inform your doctor of any changes in your vaginal discharge, especially changes in its appearance, colour and odour, and when there are other symptoms such as:

• swelling
• redness,
• itching,
• burning during urination,
• abdominal pain,
• rash,
• absence of menstruation.

• Always wipe from front to back - this reduces the risk of infection,
• Wear cotton, breathable underwear so that moisture does not linger,
• Limit the wearing of tight trousers,
• Change your underwear after training or your swimsuit after bathing,
• Use water to wash your intimate area preferably,
• Avoid scented toilet paper and scented hygiene products,
• Do not use vaginal flushes,
• Protect yourself during intercourse with, for example, a condom,
• Avoid latex condoms or sperm-killing gels - these products may irritate your intimate areas.

While there isn’t a way to stop a lot of watery discharge, Pantyliners like Always Daily absorb daily discharge so you can feel dry and fresh, every day. They come in a range of sizes and absorbencies so you can find the best pantyliner for your discharge situation. Also, they are flexibly adapting to all your movements, so you'll barely feel them. Which is wonderful! Because let's face it, you've got better things to focus your great mind on. Always Daily is on a mission to bust common myths around vaginal discharge. In fact, vaginal discharge is totally normal and most women experience it. Why make it a taboo topic? We want to provide you with all the information you need and ask for. In case you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us under 0080077634434 or 08000285884 (UK), 1800509203 (IRE).