About 6-12 months before your first period you may start to notice discharge, but what is it, why do we have it 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.
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.
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!
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.
Discharge can start to be produced from the age of 8 upwards and once your journey into puberty has already started.
YES! Discharge is a great indicator that your first period is not too far away, and it can be noticed around 6-12 months before a first period.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
Healthy discharge won't smell unpleasant, isn't clumpy and should not leave you feeling irritated.
It's totally normal to feel worried or even embarrassed about discharge, but remember, you’re not alone, vaginal infections can happen to anyone, and for no particular reason.
Many people experience changes in their discharge, especially during puberty when the body is going through so much.
If you're concerned, don't be afraid to talk to your mum, a caregiver, or someone you trust.
Asking for help is the best way to make sure everything’s okay.
If you find it too hard to say the words out loud, you could always write them a note or send a quick text. Sometimes it’s easier to share your thoughts in writing.
