An increase in vaginal discharge is very common and is not always a sign that something is wrong. It can be due to normal hormone changes, but it can also signal an infection or other issue that needs treatment.
Common normal reasons
Several everyday factors can make discharge heavier without being dangerous. These include:
- Ovulation in the middle of the cycle, when discharge often becomes clear, slippery, and more abundant.
- Sexual arousal, which increases fluid as natural lubrication around the vagina.
- Hormonal changes from birth control, pregnancy, stress, or estrogen-containing medicines, which can all increase the amount of discharge.
Possible concerning causes
Sometimes heavier discharge is due to an infection or irritation that needs medical care. These can include:
- Yeast infection (often thick, white, with itching or burning).
- Bacterial vaginosis (often with a fishy odor, gray/white discharge, and possible itching).
- Sexually transmitted infections like trichomoniasis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea, which may cause colored discharge, odor, pain, or bleeding.
- Allergic or irritant reactions to soaps, wipes, detergents, or products used in the genital area.
When to see a doctor
Heavier discharge should be checked by a clinician if it is new for you or comes with other symptoms. Seek prompt medical care or an urgent clinic if you notice:
- Strong or bad odor, yellow/green or bloody discharge
- Itching, burning, rash, or swelling of the vulva
- Pain with sex or urination, pelvic or abdominal pain, fever, or if you might be pregnant
Because only an in‑person exam and tests can tell what is happening, it is important to speak with a doctor, urgent care, or sexual health clinic, especially if this is a big change from your usual pattern. If you can, describe the color, texture, smell, and any other symptoms when you contact them.
