Discharge before your period: This is what color, consistency, etc. reveal!

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Vaginal discharge, also known as cervical mucus, is often mistakenly viewed as something unhygienic and sometimes even pathological. Discharge is completely normal for women of childbearing age and can also be an indication of health.

The female body constantly produces vaginal secretions to maintain the rather acidic vaginal environment and to protect the vagina from germs and bacteria. What we perceive as discharge is nothing other than the removal of dead tissue and serves to maintain vaginal health.

Depending on the phase of your cycle, the discharge can be heavier or lighter. Color and consistency also differ depending on the phase. We would like to explain to you below what the discharge looks like immediately before the start of your period and what else can be determined based on the cervical mucus.

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Discharge before period: more and thicker

The cells of the cervix in particular produce cervical mucus. At the end of the menstrual cycle and shortly before the start of the period, the mucus becomes more and thicker and is usually white in color. That's why it's also called the White River. It can also be yellowish or slightly brown. This is not because there is an infection, but rather the body has already begun to dispose of dead cells and old blood.

Tipp:If brownish spotting occurs more frequently during the cycle, it should be examined by a doctor. Under certain circumstances the second half of the cycle is shortened and there is onebefore.

The viscous to thick consistency of the discharge ensures that the uterus is closed. This protects you from invading germs and bacteria and also prevents sperm from entering. Because the second half of the cycle is not used for fertilization.

In some women, vaginal discharge stops completely shortly before menstruation. The vagina then feels particularly dry.

When the bleeding finally starts, a new monthly cycle begins, during which the discharge changes significantly and can thus provide information about which phase you are in.

Discharge after period

After menstruation, the body prepares for another ovulation (and potential fertilization). The production of cervical mucus is not yet in full swing, which is why most women have little to no discharge immediately after bleeding.

The closer you get to ovulation, the more discharge is produced. It changes from a whitish, cloudy color and sticky-creamy consistency to a more clear, transparent and stretchy liquid.

Discharge around ovulation

Cervical mucus not only has the task of protecting the vagina from diseases and germs, it is also crucial for potential fertilization. Around ovulation it is so liquid and 'slimy' that it offers sperm an ideal living space. During this phase of the cycle they can survive in the vagina for several days and literally wait for a mature egg.

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If you have unprotected sex and don't want to get pregnant, you should avoid it for a few days before and after ovulation or use a condom. (As we know, this also protects against sexually transmitted diseases and is therefore always a good choice if you don't have a permanent partner).

After the fertile phase, the discharge becomes thicker again and naturally closes the cervix and uterus.

How much discharge is normal?

How much or little discharge a woman has is very individual and always depends on the phase of the cycle. On average, the female body produces five milliliters of mucus a day, which is about a teaspoonful. And depending on the consistency of the discharge, this may seem more or less. To protect your underwear, simply use panty liners on days with more cervical mucus.

It is important to observe your body and, if there are deviations, to get to the bottom of the cause. For example, sexual arousal can lead to more discharge. If the cycle shifts due to illness, stress or, for example, a trip, this also affects the cervical mucus.

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If you notice that you have a lot more discharge than usual or that your vagina is very dry for a long time, a visit to the doctor can help.

Discharge that is not normal

White, yellowish and brownish discharge can be normal and not worrying as long as it matches the phase of the cycle or is a rare breakthrough or spotting period. But there is also discharge, which can be a sign of infection, disease, or even an abnormality in the uterus. In connection with unusual discharge, do you notice that:

  • your vagina itches and burns,
  • Sex is suddenly uncomfortable and causes pain or
  • the discharge smells foul and unpleasant,

You should make an appointment with your gynecologist immediately. You should stay away from self-diagnosis or home remedies.

Speaking of smell:People often joke that a woman's intimate area smells 'fishy'. Healthy discharge should not smell or only smell slightly sour. If it smells bad, like metal or is even acrid, please go to the doctor.

Discharge as a sign of pregnancy?

Although you can draw some conclusions about the cycle phase or health based on observations of the discharge, this does not clearly indicate pregnancy.

Many women have increased discharge in the first weeks and months of pregnancy, that's true, but other things can also influence increased or decreased discharge. An (early) pregnancy test at the time of the onset of your period has much more information.

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Important note: The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a diagnosis from a doctor. If you have any uncertainties, urgent questions or complaints, you should contact your doctor. The medical on-call service can be reached via the nationwide number 116117.