|
|
 |
 |
|
|
Sexual Health Information |
|
|
|
It is normal to have fluids coming out of the vagina. Sometimes they are called secretions
or discharge. There are different types.
Cervical Mucus
This mucus is made in the cervix, the opening to the uterus (womb).
It looks different depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle.
During your most fertile time (when you are most likely to get pregnant)
it is slippery, clear and stretchy. Just before your period, it is sticky.
If you are taking birth control pills, it will probably always be sticky.
Mucus usually dries white or yellow on the underwear.
Girls usually start to notice this during puberty.
There will be less cervical mucus as a woman gets closer to menopause.
Lubrication
Glands near the opening of the vagina produce this fluid.
It appears when a woman is sexually excited. Lubrication helps a woman enjoy sexual activity.
Sometimes women may need extra lubrication (e.g., during breastfeeding or before and after
menopause). Water-based lubricants are available at pharmacies or Sexual Health Clinics.
Female Ejaculation
Some women ejaculate when they have an orgasm (come). There is usually a lot of clear fluid that comes out of the urethra where urine (pee) normally comes out. However, this fluid is not urine; it has no odour and does not leave a stain.
Care
Your vagina cleans itself. As fluids pass through it, old cells are flushed out.
You do not need to douche, use feminine hygiene spray or wash with soap inside the
vagina. These products are not necessary to keep the vagina clean. In fact, they can
irritate the delicate lining of the vagina. Wash the outside of the genitals.
A shower or bath is all that is needed. Using condoms during intercourse will help
prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
Problems
It is important to know what your normal secretions look like and smell like.
If there is a change in the appearance or odour, get it checked out. You may
have a vaginal infection or an STI.
See your doctor or go to a Sexual Health Clinic if:
- the fluid coming out of your vagina looks or smells different than usual
- you bleed after intercourse or see blood between periods
- you have vaginal itching
- it burns when you urinate (pee)
 |
 |
|
|
|
