Excessive vaginal discharge can occur for a variety of reasons, ranging from normal physiological changes to infections and other medical conditions.
Normal Causes
- Vaginal discharge naturally fluctuates during the menstrual cycle, with increases typically around ovulation due to hormone changes.
- Pregnancy, sexual arousal, and use of birth control pills can also increase discharge volume.
- Some women naturally have more discharge than others, and this can also be influenced by conditions like cervical ectropion (a benign condition causing more glandular tissue on the cervix).
Common Infections and Conditions
- Vaginal yeast infection : Overgrowth of Candida fungus causes thick, white, lumpy discharge, often with itching and irritation.
- Bacterial vaginosis : Imbalance of vaginal bacteria leads to thin, grayish discharge with a fishy odor.
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis can cause abnormal discharge with changes in color, odor, or consistency.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) : An infection involving reproductive organs causing heavy, foul-smelling discharge, pain, and other symptoms.
- Other factors like douching, use of scented soaps, hormonal changes, diabetes, or immune system issues can also affect discharge.
When to See a Doctor
- If the discharge changes in color (yellow, green, gray, or blood-stained), smell (strong or foul odor), or texture.
- If discharge is accompanied by symptoms like itching, burning, pain during urination or sex, pelvic pain, or unusual bleeding.
In summary, discharging more than usual can be normal due to hormones or sexual activity, but if accompanied by unusual symptoms, infections or other health issues may be the cause and medical evaluation is advised.
