Vaginal discharge: what is normal and when to see a doctor

Normal discharge

Clear or white discharge that changes a little during your cycle is normal. It keeps the vagina healthy.

Signs of infection

• Itching or burning
• A strong or fishy smell
• Grey, green or yellow discharge
• Pain during sex or when passing urine
• Lower abdominal pain or fever

Common causes

Yeast (candida), bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomonas. Each needs a different treatment, so it is best to be examined rather than guess.

Looking after yourself

• Wash the outside with water only; avoid douching inside the vagina
• Wear cotton underwear
• Use condoms with new or multiple partners
• Complete the full course of any treatment