Thick, white vaginal discharge is normal unless it has a foul odor or lumps. It can be caused by ovulation, yeast or bacterial infections, or pregnancy. Any abnormal discharge with itching or swelling should be checked by a doctor.
Thick, white vaginal discharge is usually considered normal as long as it isn’t foul-smelling or lumpy in texture. Some potential causes of an abnormal discharge can include yeast or bacterial infections. The discharge often changes in texture and color from week to week or during times of hormonal changes.
One of the most common causes of thick white discharge is ovulation. Although some women experience clear, slippery cervical mucus during this time, many have thick white discharge instead. Both variations are considered normal in most cases as long as the discharge is white in nature and odorless.
Other reasons a woman may experience thick white discharge include yeast and bacterial infections, also called vaginosis. Yeast-related vaginosis is caused by an overgrowth of natural organisms found inside the vagina. Symptoms may include thick, white, lumpy discharge as well as localized itching and irritation. Treatment usually includes an antifungal drug applied directly into the vagina.
Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that occur naturally in the vagina, although occasionally external pathogens can also cause problems. The discharge is often yellow or green, but sometimes white discharge may also be seen. Itching, irritation, and a foul odor are also commonly present. Antibiotic medications, administered vaginally or orally, are the most common treatment for this condition.
Pregnancy can also cause thick, white vaginal discharge, although this varies from woman to woman. As hormones change and fluctuate during pregnancy, secretions may become thicker and more abundant and may alternate between clear and white. Sometimes yellow discharge is also considered normal, but this should be checked by a doctor because it could also signal an infection.
Any vaginal discharge accompanied by itching, irritation, or swelling should be checked by a licensed physician. Many times it will be due to a minor infection, but STDs often have similar symptoms. If vaginal discharge increases beyond normal for a woman’s body, whether or not she has additional symptoms, she should see a doctor.
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