The vagina provides the pathway to the reproductive organs in the body. Its environment is normally acidic in order to inhibit potential pathogens. Its pH is maintained by microorganisms normally contained in its microflora. Normally, the vagina secretes secretions that support and regulate the microflora, similar to how saliva is secreted and maintains a favorable environment for the health of the tissues in the mouth. In this sense, not every “vaginal discharge” is dangerous, on the contrary, vaginal secretions are an indicator of the local defense forces against infections and mechanical injuries – they also act as a “lubricant” during coitus. Normal vaginal discharge is transparent or slightly whitish, appears yellowish on underwear. Its consistency and color change according to the monthly cycle – for example, two or three days before and during ovulation, it looks more abundant, transparent, mucous; whitish and sticky it becomes immediately after the possible period of conception, the day after it. The characteristics of the vaginal discharge can also change according to factors such as stress, diet – deficiencies will also affect it – medication, pregnancy, degree of excitement… The acidity of the vaginal discharge also changes with the menstrual cycle, as well as other factors. It usually falls immediately before and during menstruation, which predisposes to a higher tendency to sexually transmitted infections during this period. NEWS_MORE_BOX How can we judge the presence of an infection in the vagina? Any change in the color and amount of vaginal discharge outside of the usual can be a sign of infection. Usually they are accompanied by signs such as swelling of the mucous membrane, burning, itching, too abundant and unpleasant in consistency, color – grayish, yellowish, greenish, gray-white, and smelling discharge, frequent urination, burning during urination, the presence of white pieces in the discharge or a kind resembling curdled milk. Three are the most common diagnoses in the presence of pathological white discharge – bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and fungal infection.