Watery discharge - what does it mean, and what causes it?

It’s like your body’s first line of defence against infection. You may notice that at times your discharge is more watery, and other times it is more stretchy and mucous-y, kind of like an egg white. You may be wondering why this variation happens.

The consistency of your discharge will change based on the hormonal balance in your body. This means that things like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause will affect the amount and consistency of the discharge your body produces.

Vaginal discharge plays a key role in maintaining intimate health by helping to cleanse and moisturise the reproductive tract. Although watery or clear mucus is usually a sign of a well-functioning body, sudden changes in its consistency, colour, or smell should not be ignored. Itching, burning, pain, or an unpleasant odour are signals that may indicate problems such as vaginal yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or sexually transmitted diseases. Some of these infections, although common and easily treatable, can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Watery discharge is a natural part of female physiology, playing a crucial role in women’s intimate health. This fluid secretion is produced by the glands in the uterine lining (endometrium), fallopian tubes, and vagina, and its presence indicates the proper functioning of the reproductive system. It serves many important functions—protects against infections, moisturises the vaginal walls, removes impurities, and supports fertility processes. Thanks to this discharge, the body can maintain its natural protective barrier, while sperm have an easier path to the egg during ovulation.

Watery vaginal discharge is a natural element of a woman's health and may vary depending on the menstrual cycle phase, hormone levels, sexual activity, or overall health condition. Therefore, the main types of watery discharge are:

• Clear watery discharge after a period – a sign that the body is cleansing itself and preparing for the next phase of the cycle. As oestrogen levels rise, the discharge becomes more mucus-like, supporting the upcoming ovulation.
• White watery discharge before a period – before menstruation, as progesterone levels increase, the discharge may become white and watery. This is a completely normal phenomenon that helps maintain vaginal moisture and protect against infections.
• Watery discharge during ovulation – around the middle of the cycle, during ovulation, the body produces an increased amount of mucus resembling egg whites.
• Heavy watery discharge during pregnancy – hormonal changes during pregnancy cause the cervix and vaginal walls to produce more mucus, which protects the uterus from infections. It is usually clear or white. In the final weeks of pregnancy, a thicker mucus with a small amount of blood may appear—this is a natural part of the body’s preparation for childbirth.
• Watery discharge during sexual arousal – vaginal glands produce clear, watery discharge to reduce friction during intercourse.

Vaginal discharge plays a vital role in maintaining intimate health. It helps cleanse the vagina, remove dead cells, and protect against infections. A healthy vaginal flora ensures that the discharge has a slightly acidic pH, which helps combat harmful bacteria. Watery discharge may occur at different phases of the menstrual cycle, in response to hormonal changes, during pregnancy, menopause, physical activity, or sexual arousal. In most cases, this is a completely normal phenomenon, but sometimes it may indicate an infection or other health issues.

1. Vaginal discharge throughout the menstrual cycle

During the menstrual cycle, oestrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate naturally, affecting the consistency and amount of vaginal discharge. After menstruation, the discharge may be watery and clear, whereas during ovulation, it becomes stickier and more elastic, resembling egg whites. This is a sign of fertile days.

2. Watery discharge during physical activity

During intense exercise, such as running or cycling, sweat glands in the intimate area may contribute to watery discharge. It can also result from the vagina’s natural lubrication, which increases with physical exertion.

3. Sexual arousal

Watery vaginal discharge can be a natural response to sexual arousal. Increased blood flow to the genital area stimulates the Bartholin's and Skene's glands to produce mucus, which acts as a natural lubricant, reducing friction during intercourse.

4. Discharge during pregnancy

Many women notice an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy due to elevated oestrogen levels and increased blood flow to the reproductive organs. This discharge, known as leukorrhea, is clear or white with a neutral odour and helps protect the reproductive tract from infections.

Although watery discharge during pregnancy is a normal symptom, a doctor should be consulted if itching, burning, a yellowish, greenish, or grey colour, or an unpleasant odour occurs.

A sudden large amount of watery fluid may indicate amniotic fluid leakage, requiring immediate medical attention.

5. Discharge during menopause

During menopause, oestrogen levels drop, leading to the thinning of vaginal walls and reduced mucus production. This can result in vaginal dryness, irritation, and sometimes watery discharge. Other accompanying symptoms may include burning, itching, increased urinary frequency, or urinary tract infections.

Intimate infections can affect women of all ages and lifestyles. One of the most common warning signs is watery discharge accompanied by itching, often causing significant discomfort. If you notice sudden changes in the colour, consistency, or smell of your discharge—along with symptoms such as burning during urination, redness, or swelling in the intimate area—you should not ignore them. Watery discharge and itching may indicate various infections, such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or sexually transmitted diseases. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial to avoiding more serious complications.

While clear, watery vaginal discharge is usually a natural phenomenon, there are situations where it should not be ignored. If the discharge becomes excessive, changes colour, consistency, or smell, it is a signal to consult a doctor. Pay special attention to accompanying symptoms such as fever, lower abdominal or pelvic pain, which may indicate more serious health issues requiring immediate diagnosis.

Watery vaginal discharge is completely natural and healthy, so there is no need to worry or try to stop it. However, watery discharge may leave your underwear feeling damp or wet. You can use Always Daily pantyliners for dry and fresh feel throughout the day. They absorb discharge and are light and breathable so you barely feel like you’re wearing one.