The Likely Memo: “The pH balance is out of whack.”
What it is: This is a strong indicator of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Unlike a yeast infection, BV is characterized by a strong, fishy odor, especially after sex or during your period. It’s not an infection you “catch,” but an overgrowth of certain bacteria that naturally live in the vagina, upsetting the delicate acidic balance. It’s your body reporting a managerial problem in its microbial community.
The Yellowish-Green, Frothy Stain:
The Urgent Memo: “We may have an unwelcome visitor.”
What it is: This type of discharge, especially if it’s abundant and has a foul odor, can be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like Trichomoniasis. It is often accompanied by itching, burning, and discomfort when urinating. This is a memo that requires immediate attention and a conversation with your partner.
The Brown or Blood-Tinged Stain (Outside of Your Period):
The “Investigate This” Memo: “There’s old blood present.”
What it is: This can be benign, like leftover tissue from your last period (called “old blood”). However, if it happens frequently between periods or after menopause, it is a crucial message from your body that should not be ignored. It can be a sign of hormonal fluctuations, cervical polyps, or in rarer cases, something that needs more significant investigation.
