Vaginal Discharge: What It Tells You About Your Fertility

What is vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a natural and essential aspect of female reproductive health. Medically defined as the fluid that comes out of the vagina, discharge is a mixture of cells from the cervix and vagina, bacteria, mucus, and water. This combination serves various purposes, from maintaining vaginal health to indicating fertility status.

While vaginal discharge is a broad term encompassing different types of fluids, one crucial component—cervical mucus—plays a particularly significant role in fertility. This article focuses on cervical mucus as a key aspect of vaginal discharge and its importance in understanding your fertility cycle.

In the following sections, we'll explore the characteristics of cervical mucus, factors that influence it, how it evolves throughout your cycle, and its role in conception and early pregnancy. We'll also discuss methods for monitoring your cervical mucus and when to seek professional advice. Understanding this aspect of your body can empower you to make informed decisions about your reproductive health and family planning goals.

What is cervical mucus?

Cervical mucus, or cervical fluid, is a natural secretion produced by the cervix. Its consistency and volume change throughout the menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations, primarily oestrogen and progesterone. These changes are key indicators of fertility, as they help sperm survive and navigate through the reproductive tract to fertilise an egg.

What can cause changes to cervical mucus?

Several factors can influence the characteristics of cervical mucus:

1. Hormonal changes

   • Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone significantly impact the production and consistency of cervical mucus.

2. Medications 

   • Birth control, antihistamines, and other medications can alter mucus production.

3. Diet and hydration

   • Proper hydration and a balanced diet can affect mucus quality.

4. Infections or STIs 

   • Bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can change the colour, consistency, and odour of the cervical mucus.

5. Medical conditions 

   • Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can disrupt hormonal balance, affecting mucus production.

Cervical mucus timeline 

Throughout a typical menstrual cycle, cervical mucus undergoes distinct changes:

1. Menstruation (Days 1-5)

   • Little to no cervical mucus is observed due to the presence of menstrual blood.

2. Post-menstruation (Days 6-9)

   • The mucus is typically sparse, dry, or sticky, indicating a low likelihood of fertility.

3. Pre-ovulation (Days 10-12)

   • The mucus becomes creamier and more abundant, a sign of increasing oestrogen levels.

4. Ovulation (Days 13-15)

   • The mucus reaches a peak in terms of volume and elasticity, becoming clear, slippery, and stretchy like raw egg whites. This "fertile mucus" facilitates sperm movement and is a strong indicator of peak fertility.

5. Post-ovulation (Days 16-21)

   • The mucus becomes thicker and less abundant as progesterone rises.

6. Pre-menstruation (Days 22-28)

   • Mucus may decrease further or remain thick, signalling a lower likelihood of fertility.

The optimal time for conception is during the ovulation phase (around days 13-15). During this period, cervical mucus becomes clear, slippery, and stretchy, resembling raw egg whites. This "fertile mucus" creates an ideal environment for sperm, significantly increasing the chances of conception.

Cervical mucus in early pregnancy

• In early pregnancy, cervical mucus can remain thick and white or become more abundant due to increased oestrogen levels. Some women may notice a continuous discharge that is milky white and odourless, which is normal. 

• However, if you notice a strong odour or experience itching or burning, consult a gynaecologist as it may indicate an infection.

Cervical mucus after conception

• After conception, changes in cervical mucus can be an early sign of pregnancy. 

• Typically, cervical mucus becomes thicker and creamier and may increase in volume to protect the developing pregnancy from infection.

How can I check my cervical mucus at home?

There are several methods to check cervical mucus, which can help to track your ovulation cycle:

1. Manually 

   • Insert a clean finger into the vagina to collect a sample of mucus from the cervix. Stretch the mucus between two fingers to assess its consistency.

2. With toilet paper

   • Wipe the vaginal opening before urination with white toilet paper to check for mucus. Observe the consistency and colour on the paper.

3. Checking underwear or panty liner

   • Examine if any mucus is present in your underwear or on a panty liner throughout the day. This method provides a general idea of the mucus's appearance but is less precise than direct examination.

When to seek help?

Monitoring cervical mucus is a useful tool for assessing fertility, but there are situations where professional help may be needed:

1. Irregular cycles or mucus patterns

   • If you notice irregularities in your cervical mucus that do not align with your menstrual cycle or if your cycles are irregular, consult a gynaecologist.

2. Unusual discharge 

   • Any mucus that is green, yellow, foul-smelling, or accompanied by pain or itching may indicate an infection and requires medical attention.

3. Trouble conceiving

   • If you have been trying to conceive for a year (or six months if you are over the age of 35) without success, it is advisable to see a fertility specialist.

Understanding your cervical mucus can provide valuable insights into your fertility and overall reproductive health. By recognising the changes in cervical mucus throughout your cycle, you can better predict ovulation and identify potential fertility issues.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations, please consult a fertility specialist at Thomson Medical.