In some cases, however, discharge from the vagina or penis can be a signal that something else is going on inside the body. Made mostly of water and microorganisms, this discharge helps move dead cells from the vaginal lining. However, milky white discharge can indicate that a person needs to see a healthcare professional. Milky white discharge is a typical part of the menstrual cycle. At this time, it can also feel sticky or tacky. A yeast infection occurs due to an overgrowth of yeast called Candida albicans in the vagina. Learn more about yeast infections here. Females can take antifungal medications to treat a yeast infection.

Cervical fluid = part of discharge


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Clue is on a mission to help you understand your body, periods, ovulation, and so much more. Start tracking today. Discharge is an umbrella term for fluid that comes out of the vagina. Cervical fluid is an aspect of discharge—it changes throughout the cycle to prevent or facilitate sperm from moving past the cervix. Arousal fluid is created within the vagina as part of the human sexual response cycle. Vaginal discharge, cervical fluid, and arousal fluid: are they all the same thing? Not quite. Here, we explain how they vary, how to identify each one, and what you should do if your vaginal fluid starts to look, smell, or feel abnormal.
Discharge, cervical fluid and arousal fluid
Discharge refers to a mixture of fluids that comes out of the vagina or penis. People may notice discharge before, during, or after sexual intercourse. Certain factors can influence the amount and appearance of discharge. The consistency of vaginal discharge, for example, naturally changes throughout the menstrual cycle. Healthy vaginal discharge is a clear or white fluid that contains cervical mucus, vaginal fluid, and cell debris. Some changes in the quantity or appearance of vaginal discharge may occur naturally, while others may indicate an underlying health condition. Sexual arousal stimulates an increase in blood flow to the genitals.
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Vaginal discharge is a healthy part of vaginal health.