Vaginal discharge is a normal function of the female reproductive system. It helps keep the vagina clean, provides lubrication, and protects against infections. However, changes in its color, consistency, and odor may indicate an underlying condition. Some variations in discharge are influenced by factors such as hormonal changes, diet, sexual activity, pregnancy, or infections. Below is a breakdown of different vaginal discharge colors, their potential causes, and when to seek medical attention.

Clear or White Discharge Typically Indicates a Healthy Vagina

Most women experience clear or white discharge, which is generally normal. This type of discharge varies in consistency throughout the menstrual cycle.

Thin, watery, or stretchy discharge often occurs during ovulation and is a sign of fertility.
Thick, white discharge can be normal but may also indicate a yeast infection if accompanied by itching and irritation.
Mildly milky or white discharge without odor is often considered a sign of a well-balanced vaginal microbiome.

In some cases, hormonal fluctuations due to pregnancy, birth control, or menopause can lead to changes in the amount and texture of white discharge.

Yellow or Green Discharge May Indicate an Infection

Yellow or green discharge is not considered normal and often signals an infection.

Pale yellow discharge without odor or irritation might be normal, especially if influenced by diet or supplements.
Dark yellow or green discharge that is frothy and has a foul odor may indicate a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as trichomoniasis.
Thick, yellow discharge with a strong odor may suggest bacterial vaginosis or an advanced yeast infection, particularly if accompanied by pain, burning, or discomfort during urination.

Brown or Bloody Discharge Could Be Related to Menstruation or More Serious Conditions

Brown discharge is usually old blood leaving the uterus, which can occur:

Before or after menstruation, as a normal part of the cycle.
Mid-cycle, sometimes due to ovulation spotting.
After intercourse, possibly due to minor cervical irritation.
During early pregnancy, which might signal implantation bleeding but should still be monitored.
During perimenopause, when periods become irregular, some women experience brown spotting between cycles.

However, brown or bloody discharge outside of menstruation can be a sign of:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or irregular ovulation.
Infections or cervical inflammation.
Cervical or uterine cancer, though rare, should be ruled out if accompanied by pain, heavy bleeding, or unusual symptoms.

If you notice prolonged brown or bloody discharge outside of menstruation, consult a healthcare professional.

Gray Discharge Could Be a Sign of Bacterial Vaginosis

Gray vaginal discharge is often a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), an imbalance of vaginal bacteria.

This condition usually causes a fishy odor, which becomes stronger after intercourse.
It may be accompanied by itching and burning.
BV is not a sexually transmitted infection but is often triggered by douching, unprotected sex, or an imbalance in vaginal pH levels.

If left untreated, BV can increase the risk of other infections, including STIs.

Pink Discharge May Occur Due to Hormonal Changes or Light Bleeding

Pink discharge is commonly associated with light bleeding.

It may appear before or after menstruation.
Some women notice pink discharge after sexual intercourse, which can result from slight cervical irritation.
It may also occur in early pregnancy due to implantation bleeding.
Hormonal birth control methods, such as pills, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), may also cause light pink spotting.

If pink discharge is frequent and persistent, it could signal an underlying issue, such as cervical polyps or hormonal imbalances.

Watery or Excessive Discharge Could Be a Symptom of Infection

While some vaginal discharge is normal, excessive, persistent, or foul-smelling discharge should not be ignored.

Watery discharge could be a sign of an STI like chlamydia or gonorrhea.
Excessive white discharge with a cottage cheese-like consistency is often due to a yeast infection.
Strong-smelling discharge with irritation could be linked to bacterial vaginosis.
Abnormal increase in discharge production, particularly if it soaks through underwear, may indicate an infection or hormonal imbalance.

When to See a Doctor About Vaginal Discharge Changes

You should consult a doctor if you notice:

A sudden change in discharge color, consistency, or smell.
Accompanying symptoms like itching, burning, or pelvic pain.
Persistent abnormal discharge lasting more than a few days.
Bleeding between periods or after menopause.
Unusual gray, green, or foul-smelling discharge.
Recurring or chronic infections that do not respond to over-the-counter treatments.