White discharge can be normal if it is noted before your periods and is not accompanied by other symptoms. However, white discharge with itching, a foul smell or thick can be a sign of a vaginal infection, like a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.

White discharge that presents with other symptoms should be assessed by a doctor. Identifying the underlying cause and determining if it is normal or related to a health condition can help to guide the most appropriate treatment approach.

Although white discharge is more common in women, it can also appear in men. White discharge in men is almost always indicative of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection which requires assessment and treatment.

What does white discharge mean?

White discharge in women can be a sign of:

1. A normal menstrual cycle

It is normal for women to experience a thick, milky white discharge before a period. This is considered to be a part of the menstrual cycle and is related to expected hormonal changes during this period.

This discharge is odorless and is not associated with any other symptoms. It is mainly formed by leukocytes and is naturally produced to protect the woman's body and promote lubrication.

Read more about white discharge before a period and why it happens.

How to treat: Because this is a normal alteration in the menstrual cycle, treatment is not necessary.

2. Yeast infection

A vaginal yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a very common infection that occurs when Candida fungus overgrows in the vaginal lining. In addition to white discharge, this type of infection can also lead to itchiness in the genital area, burning with urination, pain during sexual intercourse and redness in the area. Learn more about the causes and symptoms of yeast infections.

How to treat: Yeast infections are treated with antifungals, which can be taken orally, applied topically or inserted vaginally. The treatment can last from 3 to 7 days and should be under the supervision of a gynecologist. Read more about how yeast infections are treated.

3. Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is characterized by an overgrowth of the Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria that is normally found in the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis can cause white, gray or yellow discharge, an unpleasant odor that is similar to rotten fish, itchiness and burning sensation in the genital area. Read more about the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis and what causes it.

How to treat: You are advised to see your doctor for a gynecological exam to confirm if BV is present. BV is usually treated with oral or topical antibiotics, like metronidazole, as prescribed by the doctor. During treatment, you are advised to use a condom during sexual intercourse and to keep the vaginal area clean and dry.

Read more about the different options for bacterial vaginosis treatment.

4. Colpitis

Colpitis is characterized by inflammation of the vagina and the cervix that can occur due to bacteria, fungus or other protozoans. It can cause white, milky discharge that can also be frothy, foul-smelling. Upon examination, the cervix can present with swelling and red spots.

How to treat: You are advised to see a doctor or gynecologist to order testing to confirm colpitis. Testing can include a KOH test (which looks for fungus), a vaginal pH testing or a colposcopy. Once diagnosis is confirmed and the infectious agent is identified, appropriate treatment with topical or oral medication is usually prescribed.

5. Cytolytic vaginosis

Cytolytic vaginosis (CV) is characterized by the increased presence of Lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina. This bacteria is normally found in low levels in the vagina, but imbalances in levels can occur due to fluctuating vaginal pH or due to use of vaginal lubricants or tampons. Discharge associated with CV is usually white and sticky with a homogenous appearance.

How to treat: You should see your doctor for assessment and diagnosis. Treatment is usually aimed at normalizing Lactobacillus levels, which can be done with bicarbonate sodium douches or vaginal suppositories.

Cytolytic vaginosis that occurs with other symptoms like pain when urinating, pain during intercourse, genital redness and itching, the imbalances in bacteria may be related to an infection, which requires treatment with more specific medication.

6. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it is normal see small amounts of white discharge. It occurs due to expected hormonal changes and is not a sign of infection or illness. Learn more about discharge during pregnancy.

How to treat: Given it is a normal finding, treatment is not necessary. Pregnancies should be monitored by an obstetrician to ensure maternal and fetal health.

White discharge in men

White discharge from the penis is usually a sign of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection that can cause white discharge redness, burning and pain when urinating.

Men should consult a doctor if white discharge from the penis is noted, as trichomoniasis will require treatment with medications like tinidazole or secnidazole, according to medical advice.

Furthermore, it is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse during the treatment period and for the partner to carry out treatment, even if there are no apparent symptoms, to avoid a new infection.

How to prevent vaginal discharge

Copious discharge may be a sign of a vaginal infection. To prevent infections and greater production of discharge, you should consider the following:

Avoid wearing underwear that is damp or wet;
Do not wear underwear made of synthetic materials, opting for cotton instead;
Wear light, loose-fitting clothes and avoid very tight jeans and shorts;
Avoid sweet foods and food that are high in carbohydrates, as they weaken your immune system;
Do not douche the vagina, and opt to wash your external vagina with warm water and mild soap;
Sleep without underwear
After passing stool, always clean yourself from front to back to prevent feces from going into the vagina.

In addition, perfumed wipes or toilet paper can also be harmful to the vagina and increase the risk of developing an infection.