It might be difficult to understand vaginal discharge, particularly if it changes unexpectedly. However, vaginal discharge is not something to be concerned about, at least not entirely, because it is an indicator of your overall health. It is your body's method of preserving balance and sanitation in that area, yet vaginal discharge can cause you to wonder things. Women often complain about sticky vaginal discharge, which is extremely common yet concerns some women. Understanding the causes and preventive measures can help individuals manage this condition effectively. Know more about sticky vaginal discharge and if you should worry about it.

What is sticky vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a fluid produced by glands in the cervix and vagina, according to a 2020 study published in the Singapore Medical Journal. It fluctuates in consistency, colour, and quantity throughout the menstrual cycle and is an important part of the body's functioning. According to a study published in Clinical Methods, the discharge can be white, yellow, green, brown, or red.

Sticky discharge refers to a type of vaginal discharge that has a thick, gummy, or adhesive consistency. It can be clear, white, or slightly yellow and is typically part of the body's natural process of cleaning and maintaining the health of the vagina.

“This discharge can vary in amount and texture throughout the menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes. While sticky discharge is often normal, significant changes in its consistency, colour, or odour could indicate an underlying issue requiring medical attention,” says gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Pratibha Singhal. It is important to understand that a full-term pregnancy may develop sticky brown discharge as the mucus plugs at the internal uterine opening is dislodged and the opening dilates.

Know the causes of vaginal discharge. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Causes of sticky vaginal discharge

Sticky vaginal discharge can be caused by various factors, many of which are normal and related to the body’s natural processes. Here are some common causes:

1. Menstrual cycle

The appearance of vaginal discharge varies over the menstrual cycle. Colour and other characteristics may differ slightly depending on the individual and how long the discharge has been in a person's underwear. Hormonal fluctuations during different phases of the menstrual cycle can affect the consistency of vaginal discharge, as found in a 2024 study published in StatPearls. Sticky discharge is often seen before and after ovulation.

2. Ovulation

Ovulation is a physiological process defined by the bursting of the dominant follicle in the ovary. This triggers the release of an egg into the abdominal cavity. It is subsequently taken up by the fallopian tube's fimbriae, where it may get fertilised, as found in a 2023 study published in StatPearls. Around ovulation, the body produces more cervical mucus, which can become sticky or stretchy to help sperm travel through the cervix.

3. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the mother's body undergoes massive changes that affect all organ systems to support the growing foetus, as per a 2023 study published in StatPearls. Higher levels of estrogen can lead to an increase in vaginal discharge, which may be sticky as the body works to protect the uterus from infections.

4. Bacterial vaginosis

According to a 2023 study published in StatsPearl, bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused mainly by the Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria. This bacteria is naturally found in the vagina, but it can overproduce when there are not enough other good bacteria. This might result in a sticky discharge with a yellow or grey colour and a foul aroma.

5. Yeast infection

Vaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection primarily caused by Candida albicans, according to a 2023 study published in StatsPearl, vaginal yeast infection. Symptoms include sticky, grey or white discharge, vaginal burning, and intense itching of the vagina and vulva. Candida albicans is a yeast that is normally present in the vagina in a tiny amount but can overgrow and cause an infection.

6. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Trichomonas vaginae. It has a strong, terrible scent and produces a yellow-green sticky discharge. It may also induce urinary discomfort and vaginal redness, according to a study published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Prevention Care.

Symptoms of sticky vaginal discharge

The symptoms of sticky vaginal discharge can vary depending on its cause and whether it is part of a normal bodily process or indicative of an underlying issue. Here are some common symptoms associated with sticky vaginal discharge, as mentioned by the expert.

• Thick, gummy consistency The discharge may feel thick, sticky, or gummy, often resembling a glue-like texture.
• Colour variations: The discharge can range in colour from clear or white to slightly yellow or grey. Normal sticky vaginal discharge is typically clear or white, while colour changes may suggest an infection or other condition.
• Odour: Sticky discharge is usually odourless. However, a strong or foul smell may indicate an infection like bacterial vaginosis.
• Itching or irritation: While sticky discharge itself might not cause discomfort, if it is related to an infection, you may experience itching, irritation, or redness around the vaginal area.
• Changes in volume: The amount of sticky discharge can increase or decrease depending on factors like the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or hormonal contraceptive use.
• Menstrual cycle: Sticky discharge is often seen before and after ovulation, as well as in the days leading up to menstruation.
• Accompanying symptoms of infection: If sticky vaginal discharge is due to an infection, other symptoms may include a burning sensation during urination, pelvic pain, or discomfort during sex.
• Clumpy or cottage cheese-like texture: If the sticky discharge is clumpy or resembles cottage cheese, it may indicate a yeast infection.

There are many symptoms of sticky vaginal discharge. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Natural ways to prevent sticky vaginal discharge

Here are some of the easy ways that will help to prevent sticky vaginal discharge naturally, as recommended by the expert.

1. Maintain good hygiene

Wash the genital area every day to keep it clean and dry. Avoid using strong soaps or feminine hygiene products that could disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina. Always wipe from the front, after using the toilet, to the back to avoid bacteria from spreading from the anus to the vagina.

2. Keep yourself hydrated

A study published in the BMJ Open Quality Journal indicated that dehydration increases the risk of vaginal infections. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water helps to keep vaginal moisture and hydration levels stable, which is beneficial to vaginal health. It also helps to reduce the discharge before the start of menstruation.

3. Wear breathable clothing

Always wear 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.

4. Consume more probiotic-rich foods

Consuming more probiotic-rich foods, such as yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, or taking probiotic supplements, can help regulate vaginal discharge. According to a study published in the Frontiers Cellular and Infection Microbiology Journal, probiotics can help restore the vagina's natural balance of bacteria, lessening the risk of disorders like bacterial vaginosis, which naturally reduces sticky vaginal discharge.

5. Coconut oil

Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties and can provide moisture, helping to soothe irritation and prevent infections. Apply a tiny amount of organic, extra virgin coconut oil on the outer vaginal area.

6. Manage stress

Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance, affecting vaginal discharge. Include stress-relieving activities such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises in your everyday routine.

Stress can lead to sticky vaginal discharge. Image courtesy: Freepik

Things to keep in mind!

While these home remedies and prevention methods may help to lessen the risk, they are not a substitute for medical care. If you have excessive sticky vaginal discharge, you should consult your doctor to establish the underlying cause and seek medical assistance.

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