Fact Check: Is It Normal to Have Vaginal Discharge Every Day?

Vaginal discharge is fluid from the cervix and vagina that helps clear out old cells and keep your reproductive tract clean. Aside from menstrual blood, practically any fluid leaving the vagina can be characterized as vaginal discharge—think of it as the solution your vagina uses to self-clean (yes, your vagina really can do all that and more)! 

Though “normal” varies slightly from person to person, normal monthly discharge follows a pattern of: dry → sticky and white → thin, creamy/milky → slippery/stretchy and clear. 

Keep in mind, that typically, any changes in the odor or color of your discharge might indicate a potentially imbalanced microbiome —  and may indicate an untreated infection—so it’s best to reach out to your doctor! 

What amount of vaginal discharge is normal?

From UpToDate: "In women who are premenopausal, it is normal to have approximately one-half to one teaspoon (2 to 5 mL) of white or clear, thick, mucus-like, and mostly odorless vaginal discharge every day. However, the amount and consistency of the discharge varies from one woman to another. The amount can also vary at different times during the menstrual cycle. It may become more noticeable at certain times, such as during pregnancy, with use of birth control pills/patch/vaginal ring, near ovulation, and in the week before the menstrual period."