Bleeding after intercourse can be a sign of infection. Contact your doctor or call Teen Clinic to make an appointment to see a health care provider. The reason to contact a provider is to rule out infection or irritation. During this appointment, it’s also a good idea to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially common infections like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea.
It’s natural and common to have extra vaginal discharge after intercourse. Vaginal discharge is a bodily fluid that cleans the vagina and maintains balanced pH levels. It’s unlikely that the fluid is exclusively semen, however there can be sperm present in vaginal discharge for a little while after unprotected sex. Slight variations in vaginal discharge are normal. If you notice that your vaginal discharge changes dramatically in color, texture, odor or volume, contact your doctor or make an appointment at Teen Clinic for an exam to rule out infection.
…and my partner never ejaculates inside of me. Is this discharge normal?
Unusual discharge can be side effect of hormonal birth control methods. Side effects are generally more present during the first three months of beginning a hormonal method. If you don’t get your period regularly, it might be wise to take a home pregnancy test or come to Teen Clinic for a free test. Changes in discharge can also indicate infection. Contact you doctor or Teen Clinic for an exam to check for infection.
If you are concerned about changes in your vaginal discharge, make an appointment to see your doctor or visit Teen Clinic for an exam. It’s natural for vaginal discharge to have a distinct odor and sometimes women just have to get used to the odor of their own discharge. Other times a strong odor can indicate an infection or improper hygiene. A health care provider can do an exam to identify or rule out an infection, and s/he can give you tips on how to take good care of your vagina. Cotton underwear, looser clothing and some changes in diet can help with vaginal health. Avoid douches and vaginal sprays! These will only irritate your vagina and could lead to infection. Click here for an appointment at Teen Clinic or call 303.442.5160.
…and I would suspect a yeast infection but it’s usually clear. It’s just a lot. Why? What should I do about it?
Variations in vaginal discharge are natural. It is different for everyone, just like everyone’s vagina is different! Vaginal discharge is healthy; it’s your body’s way of cleaning the vagina and maintaining balanced pH levels. It’s great that you are examining your body and familiarizing yourself with your discharge. It sounds like your vaginal discharge is pretty consistent and healthy. Because you already know what your typical discharge is like, you’re more likely to notice if there are unusual changes or cause for concern in the future. Sudden changes in odor, texture, color and volume can often indicate infection. It’s best to talk directly to a health care provider if you have concerns so you can get personalized care and advice. Click here to schedule an appointment for a consult at Teen Clinic.
…I wear cotton underwear all the time, but my vagina seems to produce a bad odor. Also, once in a while I notice that I have leaking sticky brown gooey stuff in my underwear. Is that normal?
Check out our previous post for some general information on variations in vaginal discharge. But it seems like you symptoms may fall outside what providers consider “normal.” It’s best if you are seen by a health care provider soon. Contact your doctor or make an appointment at Teen Clinic for a free and confidential exam.
…but sometimes has a yellowish tint in my panties. Is this normal? Or do I have a STD?
Variations in vaginal discharge are natural. Discharge changes according to the menstrual cycle and changes in hormonal levels. It’s a healthy habit to pay attention to the variations in your own discharge so you can tell when it gets unusual for you. It’s important to see a health care provider if you are concerned about your body and your vaginal discharge. Providers become concerned if discharfe is itchy, has a foul odor, or has a dark or greenish tint.
