But what exactly is vaginal discharge, how much of it is normal and what purpose does it serve?

We have looked into these questions and would like to provide you with the answers in this blog article.

What is vaginal discharge

The vaginal discharge, also called cervical mucus, has an important protective function for our body, because it forms a barrier due to the lactic acid bacteria it contains, which cannot be easily overcome by bacteria and other pathogens. It also transports the sperm to the fertiledays n to the uterus and helps to maintain the acidic environment and thus the balance of the vaginal flora.

Are you wondering what vaginal secretion consists of? The discharge is formed from the fluid inside the vagina, various metabolic products, cells from the glandular tissue and a glandular secretion from the cervix.

What does healthy discharge look like

Vaginal discharge is usually white and somewhat viscous in consistency. This is where it gets its name from: "milk flow". In healthy women, the secretion has no smell. The pH value is normally between 3.8 and 4.4.

During the female cycle, the discharge changes due to hormonal fluctuations. Around ovulation, it occurs more frequently and becomes more liquid. After menstruation, the discharge becomes more viscous again.

If the discharge changes in strength, color, consistency or smell, this indicates an illness. Bacteria are usually involved, but at the first signs of a change you should see a doctor for clarification to be on the safe side. 

How does the discharge change during the individual cycle phases

The appearance and consistency of the discharge varies from woman to woman, but there are some factors that affect the different phases of cycle indicate.

During the infertiledays During the female cycle, cervical mucus is pearly white to milky white, in some cases slightly yellowish. The consistency is creamy.

Somedays After menstruation and before ovulation, the discharge loses its milky color and appears increasingly glassy. During the most fertile phase, you can even pull the mucus apart with your fingers without it tearing.

During ovulation, the discharge changes in color and structure. It usually becomes thinner and appears clear. Some women report a wet feeling in their panties because more discharge is now being produced.

Immediately before and after bleeding, the discharge is sticky and viscous. A brownish to reddish discoloration is also possible. This discharge, also known as spotting, is nothing to worry about. It is just a little blood that can come out before the actual bleeding starts. The consistency of the discharge indicates the infertiledays , because this barrier prevents the sperm from reaching the uterus.

Women usually know what their discharge looks like and what color or consistency it has at different times of the cycle. This makes it easy to recognize when something changes.

The first signs of a possible illness are usually itching, an unpleasant smell or a crumbly discharge. But redness, an unpleasant burning sensation or a dry vagina can also indicate infections or a vaginal yeast infection.

In general, you should see a gynecologist immediately if you notice any changes in the consistency, color or smell of your cervical mucus.

What can you do to keep your vaginal flora healthy

Most women wash themselves excessively often and use soap products with chemical fragrances that disrupt the natural and delicate protective barrier of the vaginal flora. This allows bacteria and viruses to penetrate, which can lead to unpleasant infections. Proper hygiene in the intimate area only warm water should be used.

Look for underwear and hygiene products without chemical additives and synthetics.

When choosing hygiene products, it is also advisable to use alternatives without softeners, fragrances and chemical additives.