vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge is normal and keeps your vaginal area moist and helps to protect it from damage or infection. Discharge is usually milky in colour and does not smell. The amount of discharge you produce increases at certain times depending on your monthly cycle, if you are pregnant, or if you are sexually aroused or "turned on". Being on the pill may change your discharge.

A change in your discharge may mean that something is wrong. These changes may be:
• more discharge than usual
• a change in the colour of your discharge
• smelly discharge
• sore, itchy skin around your genital area
• discomfort when you pee
• discomfort when you are having sex
• rash or tiny cuts in your genital skin

The most common infections which cause a discharge are called thrush (candidiasis) and bacterial vaginosis.

Other infections are chlamydia, gonorrhea and TV (trichomonas).

If you are concerned and you think you may have an infection see your GP or sexual health clinic.

To download an information leaflet on Vaginal health and for more information visit: www.healthscotland.com