Vaginal mucus or discharge is the secretion that comes from the cervix and vaginal walls. The most important aspects of this discharge are texture, color, and odor, although these vary from woman to woman. However, in a healthy woman, the discharge is typically watery, slightly sticky, and has an appearance and color similar to egg white.

Why might it stain your underwear?

This is normal; all women stain their underwear with varying shades of white. Generally, the most watery discharge is clear or white. When it dries, the liquid evaporates and leaves a whitish or yellowish residue, which may have a crust.

This is completely normal, as long as your discharge is:

• Odorless or has a slightly salty odor.
• Is not accompanied by burning or itching.

If not, you should consult your doctor to make sure – everything is okay.

Composition of Vaginal Discharge

All mucous membranes need hydration. The reason the vagina maintains good health is with the help of the viscous layer of discharge.

Vaginal discharge is composed of the following:

• Secretions or mucus produced by the uterine skin, the endometrium, and the Bartholin’s valve.
• Dead cells from the cervix and vaginal epithelium.
• Fluid that passes through the walls of the blood vessels, which carry blood to the organs of the reproductive system.
• A large number of bacteria that colonize the vagina.
• Secretions produced by the sebaceous and sweat glands of the vulvar vestibule.

In short, vaginal discharge is composed of mucus, water, and cells that are normally found in your body.

Furthermore, vaginal discharge is completely normal and not unpleasant. It is as natural as saliva in the mouth.

When is vaginal discharge indicative of disease?

Normally, discharge is odorless; white or clear; thick and sticky; or runny and stretchy.

However, if the discharge is unusual, it may indicate:

Yeast Infection: In this case, the discharge is lumpy.
Bacterial Vaginosis: This is the discharge that generates the famous fishy odor.
Trichomoniasis: This discharge is yellow or greenish and foamy.

You should consult a specialist if you experience:

• Bloody discharge.
• Pain in the lower abdomen when urinating.
• Significant increase in discharge.
• Changes in color, odor, or texture.
• Irritation or itching of the skin in the intimate area.

Remember: this discharge is completely normal and plays an important role in the female reproductive system.