Every woman has it, because it fulfills an important protective function for the vagina – it’s about our discharge. The secretion typically changes over the course of the cycle, but some changes can also indicate diseases. We explain the 3 causes of a watery discharge.
The cervical mucus, which we colloquially refer to as discharge, protects our vagina from the penetration of pathogens, among other things, which is why it is extremely important. Despite its important function, vaginal discharge is still a taboo subject for many women. The question often arises: What is normal? A healthy woman’s discharge is usually clear and odorless. However, it can change over the course of the cycle and appear milky and take on a creamy consistency just before ovulation. Apart from that, other factors can also cause our discharge to change.
Table of Contents
Health: 3 causes of watery discharge
1. Sexual arousal
There is not always a disease behind it when our discharge changes. Sexual arousal also leads to increased secretion, which could be confused with a watery discharge. When we are aroused, the vagina gets better blood flow. The increased blood flow puts more pressure on the vagina, causing blood vessels to swell and fluid to be secreted. However, this is not the same secretion that usually comes out of our vagina. This fluid comes from the so-called Bartholin gland and consists of water and proteins, among other things.
2. STDs
However, if the discharge occurs independently of sexual arousal, has a watery consistency, is yellowish or green in color, has an unpleasant odor and other symptoms such as itching, burning or pain when urinating, it is most likely a symptom of a sexually transmitted disease. Sexually transmitted diseases that cause a watery or foamy discharge include chlamydia , genital herpes, gonorrhea (clap) or trichomoniasis, among others. Consult your gynecologist if you have the symptoms mentioned above.
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3. Vaginal Bacteria
A bacterial vaginal infection, also known as bacterial vaginosis, occurs when the sensitive vaginal flora is disturbed and the number of “bad” bacteria has gotten out of hand. Typically, the infection is accompanied by a thin, grey-white discharge that smells unpleasant. Symptoms such as itching, burning or pain can also occur. In addition to a new or frequently changing sexual partner, bacterial vaginosis is also promoted by incorrect intimate hygiene, hormonal changes such as pregnancy, stress or the use of antibiotics.
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