White discharge:9 things to know about vaginal secretions

What is white discharge or vaginal discharge?

Whitish, transparent, sometimes yellowish liquids depending on the case, white losses, also called leucorrhoea, are part of the vaginal secretions that punctuate the hormonal life of a woman. Produced by the uterus and vagina, white discharge are a very natural physiological phenomenon, just like menstrual bleeding. The discharge of this vaginal fluid, the appearance and consistency of which changes according to various factors, indicates optimal functioning of the female genital organs.

The white losses do not flow anyhow. They play a specific role in the female genital mechanism, as they allow the vagina to:

• Lubricate naturally:indeed, these are the same secretions produced by the excitement of the vagina during sexual intercourse. This liquid lubricates the vaginal walls to facilitate the penetration and movement of male gametes.
• Removing Bacteria:White discharge is part of the cleaning mechanisms of the vagina. The latter evacuates, through this whitish secretion, the dead cells that line the vaginal walls. White discharge immediately carries away all traces of bacteria that may have developed or entered the vagina.

Should we be worried about the flow of white discharge?

Leucorrhoea, or white discharge, is a normal and totally natural vaginal discharge. The most worrying for a woman of childbearing age would rather not have these vaginal discharge. If, in the vast majority of cases, white discharge is synonymous with a reproductive system in excellent health, it nevertheless happens that they are the precursor sign of an infection. How to tell the difference between normal and abnormal white discharge? It all depends on the look and texture of the liquid:

• Smelly, creamy or grainy white discharge can only indicate an abnormality. If the liquid takes on a greenish, yellowish or even pinkish hue, this indicates the presence of a vaginal infection, such as mycosis. In this case, the secretions are also accompanied by abnormal symptoms such as burning sensations and itching.
• Odorless white discharge, with a fluid texture, sometimes thick, reflects the good health of the genital system. If the vaginal discharge is white or transparent, you have nothing to worry about.

In case of abnormal white losses, consult a specialist in gynecology quickly.

When is white discharge secreted from the vagina?

White losses punctuate the different phases of the menstrual cycle and are likely to change in appearance and consistency depending on the period during which they pass. Leucorrhoea manifests differently from one woman to another. However, it is common for them to be secreted:

• Before the onset of menstruation:yellowish, abundant and thick discharge;
• During ovulation:translucent, fluid and abundant discharge;
• During pregnancy:fluid and very abundant discharge, due to high hormonal production.