What is vaginal discharge? Vaginal discharge begins to be released during puberty, when a girl is sexually mature. This period occurs with the first menstrual bleeding, around 12-13 years of age. Vaginal discharge is a secretion that is released from the vagina. Its color can be white, clear or whitish. The uterus secretes mucus, and the cervix and vagina produce fluid that consists of bacteria and cells. The function of white discharge is protective. The environment in the vagina is acidic (pH is about 4-4.5), this acidic environment does not allow pathogenic microorganisms to develop. Döderlein’s bacteria are found in the vagina. These bacteria are very beneficial to the reproductive system and support reproductive health. Vaginal discharge changes depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle. Usually, about 1-2 tablespoons are allocated as an amount for one day. What does the flow look like? Normal vaginal discharge is nothing to worry about. It does not have an unpleasant or strong smell, its color is transparent, and its consistency is sticky. The amount depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle. For example, in the middle of the cycle, before ovulation occurs, vaginal discharge increases, its color becomes whiter and more is released in quantity, while after the end of menstrual bleeding, the discharge is very little in quantity and transparent in color. It is normal to have a heavier flow during pregnancy, during active sex or when taking some contraceptives. A normal vaginal discharge should not redden the skin or be associated with itching, burning or irritation. When should we seek help? A prophylactic examination is mandatory once a year, after the start of sexual life. If there is an atypical change in the consistency of the flow, regardless of when during the menstrual cycle, if there is a change in the color of the vaginal contents, if there is an unpleasant or fetid smell, accompanied by burning, itching or pain, a gynecological examination should be performed. What is the pathological course due to? The reasons can be: taking contraceptives, taking antibiotics, bacterial vaginosis, bacterial infections, gonorrhea, chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases. What can we do to protect ourselves from pathological discharge and sexually transmitted infection? The first and important condition is to have a preventive examination every year. Frequent changing of partners increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections. With an unstable partner, contraceptives must be used to protect against sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. Regarding hygiene, we can use sanitary napkins every day, and it is recommended to wash the genitals with clean water and intimate soap every day. It is not recommended to use perfumed soaps and shower gels, scented wipes, and vaginal douches are also not recommended.because they can change the pH of the vagina and reduce the beneficial Doederlein bacteria. The use of foreign underwear, towels, and the use of foreign accessories is not recommended. References: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17905-vaginal-odor https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/4719-vaginal-discharge https://www.nhs.uk/ conditions/vaginal-discharge/ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/