menstruation · vaginal discharge · watery vaginal discharge · women's health ·Jun 23, 2022

Watery White Discharge - What Causes White Watery Discharge?

What is Vaginal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a healthy part of all menstruators and changes during different phases of the cycle. There are many types of vaginal discharge and most of the time it is nothing to worry about.

However, if you notice yellow, green or grey discharge or have a foul odour attached to it, it may be a sign of underlying health conditions. Sometimes even white or brown discharge may mean potential infections depending on their consistency and odour.

What is watery vaginal discharge?

Watery vaginal discharge normally has a clear or translucent quality and is simply vaginal or cervical glands producing the clear, watery fluid to get rid of dead cells and bacteria. It serves to lubricate and protect your vagina and urinary tract.

What Causes White Watery Discharge ?

There are usually various stages when this type of discharge can occur, and a lot of factors can play a role in this:

Around or after ovulation - Usually, during ovulation, your discharge becomes clear and stretchy, resembling an egg white. But before this time and once your ovulation is over the consistency changes to a thinner, clear type which evolves into creamy white discharge before your period.

After period - After your period is over, for a few days your body may release a watery and slightly brown discharge as the residual period blood exits the body.

When sexually aroused - Upon arousal, the body releases a natural lubricant which comes in the form of clear, watery discharge. This may also happen more post-sex due to natural arousal or female orgasm.

During pregnancy - Discharge increases during pregnancy and usually, clear, watery discharge is nothing to worry about. As you near labour, the baby’s head pushing against your cervix can cause more discharge which may be accompanied by mucus and blood, and you should immediately contact your health care professional. Also, a sudden rush or slow trickle of clear fluid may exit your vagina if your water breaks and you get ready to give birth.

After menopause - Vaginal atrophy is a common condition in a menopausal woman, which indicates the thinning of the vaginal walls. It is often accompanied by a clear, watery vaginal discharge both during and post-menopause.

What can you do about watery white discharge?

There is no need to explicitly do anything about watery discharge as there is usually nothing to worry about unless you notice a change in colour or consistency that seems abnormal. However, you may feel squeamish and want your underwear to remain dry. Try these options when your goal is simply to maintain hygiene:

Panty liners - Panty liners are designed specifically for absorbing discharge and keeping you feeling fresh and dry. Try these to keep your underwear clean, but avoid using one while sleeping. If you are looking for a soft, incredibly thin and completely safe panty liner, try the Carmesi Panty Liners.

Period underwear - Period underwear is designed specifically for absorbing moisture and resembles regular underwear. This is another great option to manage vaginal discharge when it comes in excess or bothers you.

Should you consider douching? - Douching is an old practice that has long been advised against by doctors. The vagina is self-cleaning and normal water and a mild cleanser like the Carmesi Intimate Cleanser is enough to keep the vulva clean. Watery discharge is a sign of the vagina cleaning itself and douching washes away any good bacteria inside, making you more susceptible to a vaginal infection.

Related Article