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White Vaginal Discharge: Normal Variations and When to See a Doctor

Normal Physiological Discharge

Ovulation (EWCM) – Clear, stretchy, egg-white; peak fertility.
Post-ovulation – White, thicker, less stretchy (progesterone effect).
Pregnancy – Increased white/creamy discharge (leukorrhea); protective.

Abnormal Causes

When to See a Clinician

Odor, itching, burning, pain.
Color change (yellow, green, gray).
Blood-tinged (outside period).
New partner or unprotected sex.
Persistent heavy discharge.

Self-diagnosis is unreliable; swab testing guides correct treatment.

Women's Health - Related Articles

Condition	Discharge	Other Symptoms
Yeast infection	Thick, white, clumpy (cottage cheese)	Itching, burning, vulvar redness
Bacterial vaginosis	Thin, white/gray, fishy odor	Odor worse after sex
Trichomoniasis	Frothy, yellow-green	Itching, dysuria
Chlamydia/Gonorrhea	Yellow, mucopurulent	Often asymptomatic; pelvic pain