Discharge by Cause
| Appearance | Likely Cause |
|---|---|
| Clear/white, no odour, varies with cycle | Normal physiological discharge |
| Thick, white, cottage-cheese texture, itchy | Thrush (candida/yeast infection) |
| Thin, grey/white, fishy odour (worse after sex) | Bacterial vaginosis (BV) |
| Yellow-green, frothy, itchy, sometimes with pain | Trichomonas (STI) |
| Yellow/green, possibly with pelvic pain | Chlamydia or gonorrhoea (often asymptomatic though) |
When to Get Tested
- New abnormal discharge, especially with odour, colour change, or itching
- Discharge with pelvic pain or fever
- After a new sexual partner or unprotected sex
- Discharge that doesn't respond to over-the-counter thrush treatment
- Any bleeding between periods alongside discharge changes
Don't Self-Treat Repeatedly Without DiagnosisIf you've tried over-the-counter thrush treatment without improvement, or have recurrent symptoms, see a doctor for proper testing — treating the wrong condition (e.g. thrush treatment for BV) won't work and delays proper care.
Is some vaginal discharge always normal?
Yes — normal physiological discharge changes throughout the menstrual cycle, becoming clearer and more stretchy around ovulation. This is a sign of healthy hormonal function, not a problem.
Can stress cause discharge changes?
Stress can affect the vaginal microbiome and menstrual cycle, potentially triggering yeast infections or BV in susceptible individuals, though it's not a direct cause on its own.
Do I need to be tested if my partner has symptoms but I don't?
Yes — many STIs can be asymptomatic in women while causing symptoms in male partners (or vice versa), so testing both partners is important for conditions like chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.