Reasons behind changes in vaginal discharge
It might seem like a slightly strange topic of conversation at the dinner table, but the truth is that almost all women at one time or another during the day take a quick look at their panties after a visit to the toilet. This is a silent check, an unconscious health routine which, despite the fact that it affects 100% of all women, is rarely discussed openly. The nature and frequency of discharge changes through the various phases of life, from puberty to menopause and everything in between. These changes can tell us a lot about how we feel, and it is therefore surprising that there is so little discussion around this topic. Many women resort to Google to try to understand what is "normal" in themselves, instead of sharing experiences. But imagine if we could change this? What if we could instead create an open dialogue where no topics are taboo, and where knowledge of and understanding of our body and its signals is seen as a strength? Moreover, discharge is often more than just a physical event, it can also be a reflection of our health that gives us important information. If we start talking openly about these topics, we can start building a culture of openness, knowledge and support. So let's start the conversation by talking a little more about what discharge tells us ❤️
SMELLY DISCHARGE
Foul-smelling discharge or itching may be a sign of an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection. Studies have shown that up to 30% of all women experience bacterial vaginosis during their lifetime.
DISCHARGE FROM VAGINA DURING OVULATION
Knowing how to recognize discharge associated with ovulation is invaluable if you are trying to conceive or exploring natural family planning. Our body communicates with us in a fascinating way, if we only learn to listen ❤️
🌸 Characteristics to look out for
As you approach ovulation, look for the following signs of discharge:
Consistency: The fluids become more elastic and resemble raw egg whites, which facilitates sperm mobility.
Color: The discharge becomes clearer, which indicates an increase in estrogen levels and the optimal period for conception.
Amount: You will notice an increased amount of discharge, which is another sign that your body is preparing for fertilization.
🌸 The science behind this phenomenon
This change in vaginal discharge during ovulation is well documented in scientific studies. It is due to the increased estrogen levels that occur just before ovulation, and which make the mucus in the cervix more favorable for the sperm. It is the body's natural way of maximizing the chances of conception.
🌸 Empowerment through knowledge
By understanding and identifying these signs of ovulation, you can become more in sync with your body's natural cycles. It is a step in the direction of taking control of your own reproductive health and making informed choices based on your body's signals. Learning to recognize discharge in connection with ovulation is an important tool for anyone interested in fertility and wanting to understand their body. It not only provides insight into the body's natural cycles, but also encourages a proactive approach to women's health and wellness ❤️
Read the blog A beginners guide to vaginal discharge here!
VAGINAL DISCHARGE WITHOUT OVULATION
Both hormonal imbalances, stress and certain drugs can affect which characteristics or qualities the discharge has, for example colour, consistency and smell. This applies, among other things, to how thick or thin it is, whether it is clear or cloudy, and whether it has a neutral, sweet or malodorous smell. Hormonal imbalances, stress and the use of certain medications can cause changes in discharge, even without ovulation. However, it is important to be aware that although ovulation is an important part of the reproductive cycle, the body can produce vaginal discharge even without an active ovulation process. When the body does not undergo an ovulation process, the hormonal balance can change, which in turn can lead to different types of discharge. These changes can be due to several factors:
🌸 Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal imbalances are an important factor that can affect women's health in several ways, including their reproductive system and vaginal discharge. These imbalances can be the result of several different causes, such as medical conditions, lifestyle choices, medication, and natural transition periods in life such as perimenopause and menopause.
🌸 Perimenopause and menopause
During transition periods such as perimenopause and menopause, women's bodies undergo significant hormonal changes that can affect vaginal discharge. Perimenopause, the time leading up to menopause, can be characterized by irregularities in the menstrual cycle and thus also in the discharges. Women can experience both dryness and episodes of increased discharge as a result of the fluctuating hormone levels.
During menopause, when menstruation stops completely, the body's estrogen production decreases sharply. This can lead to vaginal dryness, which is a common problem among postmenopausal women. The dryness is not only due to reduced estrogen production, but also to a change in the composition and amount of discharge from the vagina.
🌸 Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is an example of a condition that can cause hormonal imbalances, leading to irregular or absent ovulation. This in turn can affect discharge from the vagina, where women with PCOS can experience both drier discharge and periods of unusually heavy discharge depending on the specific hormonal imbalances.
🌸 Effects of estrogen and progesterone
When the body produces too little estrogen, it can result in drier discharge, as estrogen plays a key role in maintaining the moisture and elasticity of the vagina. Conversely, an imbalance in which estrogen predominates over progesterone can lead to increased secretion, resulting in irregular or unusually abundant discharge.
🌸Stress
Stress is another important factor that can affect both ovulation and discharge. The body's stress response can disrupt hormonal balance, which can lead to changes in the menstrual cycle and associated discharge. It can be anything from a reduced amount of discharge to a change in consistency.
🌸 Medicines
Certain medications, especially those that affect hormones, can also affect your discharge. This includes hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, contraceptive patches or vaginal rings. These medicines can affect the natural balance between estrogen and progesterone in the body, which can lead to suppression of ovulation and thus also affect vaginal discharge.
WHAT DOES DISCHARGE WITH BLOOD TELL US?
If you are no longer menstruating and experiencing discharge with blood, this may be a sign of medical conditions that require the attention of a healthcare professional.
Discharge with blood outside the normal menstrual cycle, often called "abnormal vaginal bleeding", can be due to a number of different causes that vary in severity. When blood is present in vaginal discharge outside of expected menstruation, it is therefore important not to ignore this sign, as it can be an indicator of several medical conditions. When you experience bleeding that does not fit into your normal cycle, it is therefore important to see a doctor.
DISCHARGE AND VAGIVITAL ACTIVE GEL
We have carried out clinical studies with VagiVital AktivGel of approx. 500 patients, and in these studies some women have had discharge, or rather have regained the natural discharge that they had before menopause, before they suffered from dry mucous membranes. In this case, the discharge is fantastic proof that AktivGel works, and it shows that the mucous membranes are moistened again ❤️ To get the best possible effect of AktivGel against dry mucous membranes, we see in our studies that the best effect is achieved by first using the gel once daily for three months, which is equivalent to three tubes, and then as needed, which is usually every two or three days.
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Take care of yourself & Stay Pussytive ❤️
/Fanny Falkman Grindal
Business Manager Nordics
Peptonic Medical AB