What Is Discharge, And Is It Normal?

Puberty is a time of so many changes some of them you may be expecting, but some come as complete surprise, and discharge is often one of those unexpected surprises.

You may even be wondering if your discharge is normal!

So, let’s talk about what to expect, how to manage it and signs to watch out for.

What is discharge?

Discharge is a perfectly normal and completely natural fluid that is produced by the body, often starting in your teen and pre-teen years.

It's produced by glands found at the entrance to your uterus, along with normal secretions that are found on the walls of the vagina.

Why do we have discharge?

It's the body's way of keeping your vagina clean and healthy, by reducing the growth of any harmful bacteria that can lead to infections down there!

What does discharge look like?

The colour, texture and amount of discharge you produce will change throughout the month.

For teens and pre-teens it's often creamy yellow in colour and quite thick.

As your body starts to mature and periods become more regular your discharge will change based on where you are in your menstrual cycle.

• Mid-Cycle (Ovulation): Discharge tends to be clear, runny, and stretchy, increasing in amount as the ovaries release an egg.
• Before Your Period: It may become thicker and darker in colour (yellow), which is completely normal.

When should I expect to get discharge?

Discharge can start to be produced from the age of 8 upwards and once your journey into puberty has already started.

Will I get discharge every day?

This will vary from person to person, and if your discharge is clear and runny you may not even notice it, but for the majority of people discharge occurs daily and continues into your adult years, although it may start to reduce as you get older.

How much discharge is normal?

Although it may look like you are releasing a lot of discharge for the most part, no more than one teaspoon full is produced each day.

Does discharge stop once my periods start?

We're afraid not, discharge not only continues to be released throughout your life, but also during your period too, although it's unlikely you will see it when on your periods as it will be mixed with period blood.

How should I manage my discharge?

• Daily Liners: If you find that discharge makes you feel damp or uncomfortable, using a daily liner can help absorb the moisture and keep your underwear dry. Lil-Lets liners, for example, are designed to be small and discreet for everyday use.
• Good Hygiene: Wearing breathable, cotton underwear and changing it regularly can also help manage moisture and prevent any irritation.

When discharge is not okay!

Discharge can also be your body's way of letting you know you've got an infection. Understanding these changes can help you recognise what's normal for your body and when it might be a good idea to seek medical advice.

Signs to look out for:

• Colour and Consistency Changes: If your discharge suddenly changes colour (such as becoming green or grey) or has a thick, clumpy texture (like cottage cheese), it might be a sign of an infection.
• Unpleasant Odour: If you notice a strong or unpleasant smell that doesn't go awa, this could also be a sign something is not right.
• Irritation or Discomfort: Burning, itching, or redness around the vaginal area is not normal and could be a sign that you need to see a doctor.

Healthy discharge won't smell unpleasant, isn't clumpy and should not leave you feeling irritated.

Reaching out for help shows that you’re taking care of yourself, and that's something to be proud of!