8 causes of watery vaginal discharge and how to prevent it

Vaginal discharge can be confusing, especially if you experience a sudden change out of the blue. However, vaginal discharge is not something you should be worried about, at least not all, because they are an indication of your overall well-being. It is your body’s way of preserving balance and sanitation in that area, but at times vaginal discharge can make you question things. Speaking of, women often complain about watery vaginal discharge, which is very common but worries some women. Know more about watery vaginal discharge and if you should worry about it.

What is watery vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a fluid produced by glands in the cervix and vagina, as per a 2020 study published in the Singapore Medical Journal. It varies in consistency, colour, and amount throughout the menstrual cycle and is an essential aspect of the body’s functioning. The discharge can be white, yellow, green, brown, or red, as found in a study published in the Clinical Methods Journal.

Watery vaginal discharge is a type of vaginal fluid that is usually clear or slightly milky and has a thin, watery consistency. “It is a normal secretion produced by the glands inside the vagina and cervix, which helps to keep the vagina clean and free from infections. This discharge plays an important role in the female reproductive system,” says gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Chetna Jain. Here’s how it works:

• Cleaning helps to flush out dead cells and bacteria, maintaining the health and cleanliness of the vagina.
• Lubrication can reduce friction and discomfort during sexual activity.
• It provides hydration which keeps the vaginal tissues moist, preventing dryness and irritation.
• It contains natural acids and bacteria that protect against infections by maintaining vaginal pH levels.

Causes of watery vaginal discharge

Watery vaginal discharge can occur for several reasons, including hormonal fluctuations during ovulation and pregnancy, or when you are sexually aroused.

1. Ovulation

Ovulation normally happens midway through the menstrual cycle, about 14 days before the start of the next period, as found in a study published in StatPearls. In the lead-up to ovulation, discharge may look clear, slippery, and watery. The body produces more mucus before ovulation than it does post-ovulation. This discharge is more elastic and watery than other times in the menstrual cycle. Some people may decide to wear panty liners during this time frame.

2. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the cervix and vaginal walls soften. To protect the womb, the body produces more vaginal discharge to prevent infections from spreading from the vagina to the uterus. As a result, pregnant women may experience more clear or white discharge, which is normal, as found in the Department of Health and Aged Care. During the final week of pregnancy, the discharge may shift from clear to white, with thick streaks of mucus or blood.

3. Sexual arousal

“During sexual activity, glands in the vagina create a transparent, watery fluid that lubricates the vagina and prepares it for potential sexual contact. This discharge is typical and normally resolves within an hour,” says the expert.

4. Menopause

Menopause is a phase in a woman’s life cycle, characterised by the end of her reproductive years. During this time, the ovaries stop producing oestrogen, and the menstrual cycle ends, as found in a study published by StatsPearl. During menopause, women may experience watery discharge as a result of vaginal atrophy, which causes the vaginal membrane to weaken, irritate, and inflame. Other symptoms may include itching, burning, urinating frequently, and urinary infections.

5. Bacterial vaginosis

According to a 2023 study published in the StatsPearl, bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused primarily by the Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria. This bacteria is naturally present in the vagina, however, it may overproduce when there are few other healthy bacteria in the vagina. This might result in watery discharge with a yellow or grey colour and a bad odour, which is sometimes referred to as rotten fish.

6. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. There is a strong, unpleasant odour connected to it, along with a watery discharge that is yellow-green. It can also cause urinary pain and genital redness, found a study published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Prevention Care.

7. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is another STI that can result in watery discharge. It is caused by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria and is accompanied by pain and burning when urinating, bleeding during intercourse, and pelvic pain, as per a study published in the Nursing and Health Services.

8. Gonorrhea

Gonorrhoea is also an STI caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria, which is transferred through unprotected sex with an infected partner, as found in a study published in the Nursing Health Services. Symptoms include a thin, watery, green/yellow discharge, pain or burning when urinating, urinary incontinence, genital itching, or bleeding.

Symptoms of watery vaginal discharge

While watery vaginal discharge is often normal, it can sometimes indicate an underlying condition if accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

• Itching or irritation
• Foul odour
• Discolouration (yellow, green, or grey)
• Pain during urination or intercourse
• Redness or swelling in the vaginal area

How to prevent watery vaginal discharge?

While watery vaginal discharge is often normal and a sign of a healthy reproductive system, there are measures you can take to manage and prevent excessive or abnormal discharge. Here are some expert-recommended tips you must try:

1. Maintain good hygiene

Wash the genital area with warm water and mild, unscented soap. Avoid using harsh soaps, douches, or feminine sprays. Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anal area to the vagina.

2. Wear breathable clothing

Choose cotton underwear, as cotton allows the area to breathe and helps absorb moisture, reducing the risk of bacterial growth. Avoid wearing tight clothes, as they can trap moisture and heat, creating an environment where bacteria and yeast can thrive.

3. Practise safe sex

Condoms can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that might cause changes in vaginal discharge. Plus, reducing the number of sexual partners can decrease the risk of infections that affect vaginal discharge.

4. Eat a healthy diet

Foods like yoghurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina. Also, drink plenty of water to keep your body, including your vaginal tissues, well-hydrated.

5. Avoid irritants

Avoid scented tampons, pads, powders, and sprays which can irritate the vaginal area. Use hypoallergenic laundry detergents and personal care products.

6. Manage stress

Chronic stress can impact hormonal balance, which can in turn affect vaginal discharge. Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises in your daily routine.

7. Regular check-ups

Regular visits to a gynaecologist can help catch any potential issues early and keep your reproductive health in check.

Natural remedies to deal with watery vaginal discharge

If you experience excessive or uncomfortable watery vaginal discharge, you can try several natural remedies to help manage and alleviate the symptoms. Here are some expert-approved home remedies that may help:

1. Probiotics

Probiotics help the body to develop healthy bacteria capable of combating the bacteria that cause BV. According to a study published in the International Journal of Environment and Public Health, probiotic intake may have both short- and long-term effects in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis which causes abnormal vaginal discharge. Thus, probiotics help to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina, which can prevent infections that cause abnormal discharge.

How to use

• Consume probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other fermented foods.
• Consider taking a probiotic supplement, but consult with a healthcare provider first.

2. Fenugreek seeds

Fenugreek seeds help regulate hormonal balance, which can stabilise the production of vaginal discharge. Also, a study published in the Food and Science Nutrition Journal has shown their potential to alleviate symptoms of menopause and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

How to use

• Soak 1-2 teaspoons of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Strain and drink the water on an empty stomach in the morning.
• You can also incorporate fenugreek seeds into your diet by adding them to dishes.

When to seek medical advice?

While these natural remedies can help manage symptoms of watery vaginal discharge, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent or severe discharge
• A foul odour
• Itching, burning, or irritation
• Pain during urination or intercourse
• Any other unusual symptoms

These could be signs of an infection or other underlying condition that may require medical treatment.

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