Why Do Girls “Cream”? — 8 Types of White Vaginal Discharge
🔍 What Is White Discharge?
White vaginal discharge, also known as leukorrhea, is a natural secretion from the vagina and cervix. It helps keep the area clean—trapping and flushing out old cells and bacteria throughout the menstrual cycle :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
💡 Normal Discharge: Cycle-Related Variations
- Post‑ovulation (luteal phase): creamy, white, thick, milky, or cloudy – usually odorless and harmless :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
- Around ovulation: clear and stretchy (egg‑white consistency) – a sign of fertility, not a concern :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- During early pregnancy: increased milky-white discharge is common and normal :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
⚠️ When White Discharge Could Signal an Issue
If it’s accompanied by symptoms like itching, burning, strong or fishy odor, or abnormal texture, it may indicate:
- Yeast infection (candidiasis): thick, clumpy, cottage-cheese texture, often with itching or irritation :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV): thin, grayish-white discharge with a fishy odor :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): cloudy or frothy white discharge could signal STD like trichomoniasis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
🩺 Diagnosing Abnormal Discharge
- Doctor’s evaluation includes menstrual/sexual history, physical exam, and microscopy/CST testing :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
- Treatment depends on cause: antifungals for yeast, antibiotics for BV or STIs :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
✅ When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you notice:
- Discomfort—itching, burning, or soreness.
- Strong or unpleasant odor.
- Unusual texture (clumpy, frothy, grayish).
- Accompanying symptoms—fever, pelvic pain, or urinary issues :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.