Is This Discharge Normal?
Question
Over the past few months I’ve noticed an increase in vaginal discharge (amount & texture). I’ve been to the Dr. twice. I’ve been tested for gon/ch & had a pap smear, all came back normal. But I know this is not normal for me. Any suggestions? Really worried!!! Thank you.
Answer
Last Updated: July 24, 2013
There is not enough information to say if what you are seeing is normal or not, but let me provide some info which might be helpful.
It is normal to experience a discharge of cervical mucus flowing from the vagina that lasts for a few days or a week of each cycle, around the time of ovulation. This discharge often begins as a small amount, and progresses to become clear, stretchy, and produces a feeling of slipperiness when you wipe.
If a woman has been on hormonal contraceptives, this will be altered. So for a woman who has taken hormonal contraceptives for years, it may be a bit of a surprise to observe the presence of this mucus, but it is normal and healthy. Sometimes the increase noted is simply because hormonal contraceptives were discontinued, and the woman is observing her body return to normal. Other things that can increase the quantity of the mucus are certain supplements (like B6), or medications (like guafenesin or some antibiotics).
It is not normal for the discharge to have an odor, or cause itching or be accompanied by a pain or a fever. Discharge which is always present, not just for a week or so, is not due to ovulation. It can indicate an infection, particularly if any of the just mentioned signs are present, or an irritation of the cervix, or a reaction to a product, such as perfumed products (bubble baths, scented pads, etc).
Hope this is helpful!
It is normal to experience a discharge of cervical mucus flowing from the vagina that lasts for a few days or a week of each cycle, around the time of ovulation. This discharge often begins as a small amount, and progresses to become clear, stretchy, and produces a feeling of slipperiness when you wipe.
If a woman has been on hormonal contraceptives, this will be altered. So for a woman who has taken hormonal contraceptives for years, it may be a bit of a surprise to observe the presence of this mucus, but it is normal and healthy. Sometimes the increase noted is simply because hormonal contraceptives were discontinued, and the woman is observing her body return to normal. Other things that can increase the quantity of the mucus are certain supplements (like B6), or medications (like guafenesin or some antibiotics).
It is not normal for the discharge to have an odor, or cause itching or be accompanied by a pain or a fever. Discharge which is always present, not just for a week or so, is not due to ovulation. It can indicate an infection, particularly if any of the just mentioned signs are present, or an irritation of the cervix, or a reaction to a product, such as perfumed products (bubble baths, scented pads, etc).
Hope this is helpful!
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CANFP
CANFP unites under one umbrella all those who use, teach, and advocate for NFP, and our members are our strongest resource: the physicians who provide authentic women’s healthcare, the Practitioners and Certified Teachers of all the natural methods instructing couples in its use, the couples who use NFP and reflect its values in their families and communities, the clergy providing the spiritual formation and context, and the churches, dioceses, hospitals, and profile organizations who collaborate in providing access to these services throughout the state.
