Normal Vaginal Discharge: Physiologic Patterns and Warning Signs

Daily creamy white discharge is physiologic leukorrhea—estrogen-driven cervical/vaginal secretions that cleanse and protect. Characteristics:

• Volume: 1–4 mL/day (varies cycle phase).
• Consistency: Thin to thick, stretchy at ovulation (spinnbarkeit).
• Color: Clear to milky white.
• Odor: Mild, not foul.

Abnormal Signs (Seek Care)

• Yellow-green, gray, or frothy.
• Fishy odor (BV), yeasty (candidiasis), purulent (STI).
• Pruritus, burning, dysuria, dyspareunia.
• Postcoital bleeding.

Track cyclical changes; avoid douching, scented products. Annual STI screening if sexually active.