women s health issues
Vaginal Discharge
Normal discharge
A vaginal discharge can result from normal changes inestrogenlevels. When levels are high,estrogenstimulates the cervix to produce secretions (mucus), and a small amount of mucus may be discharged from the vagina.Estrogenlevels are high in the following situations: During menstrual cycles a few days before the egg is released A few months before girls have their first menstrual period During pregnancy In women who take drugs that containestrogenor that increaseestrogenproduction (such as some fertility drugs) In newborns for a week or two after birth because they absorbestrogenfrom their mother before birth Typically, a normal discharge has no odor. It is usually milky white or thin and clear. During the childbearing years, the amount and appearance may vary during the menstrual cycle. For example, in the middle of the cycle when the egg is released (at ovulation), the cervix produces more mucus, and the mucus is thinner. Pregnancy, use of birth control pills (oral contraceptives), and sexual arousal also affect the amount and appearance of the discharge. After menopause,estrogenlevels decrease, often reducing the amount of normal discharge. 