Why do I have watery discharge that feels like I peed myself?
There is nothing abnormal about vaginal discharge, but changes to it are a cause for concern. When you discharge, your body removes dead cells from the vagina and prevents harmful bacteria from entering the uterus.
Be aware of any changes to your discharge, such as its colour or smell, as these can indicate a problem. This article discusses common causes of watery discharge, as well as more serious causes and their symptoms. In this article, I will explain possible home remedies and treatments. Lastly, I'll advise you on when to see a doctor.
Why Does Watery Discharge Feel Like I Peed Myself?
Vaginal discharge volume varies from person to person. A thin, clear, or milky discharge is typically considered healthy, as long as it does not have an unpleasant odour. The colour, odour, and texture of vaginal discharge vary. Menstrual cycle timing or infection can affect vaginal discharge. Menstrual discharge, for instance, is thicker during that time.
Common Causes of Watery Vaginal Discharge
It is not uncommon for a person with a vagina to experience vaginal discharge one year before their period starts. They will then continue to do so throughout their reproductive years. An average woman produces about 1-4 mL of vaginal discharge a day during her reproductive years.
A variety of factors can cause a watery discharge.
- During the ovulation period, your ovary releases an egg. An increase in vaginal discharge characterises this period. Moreover, the body's estrogen levels will increase, causing it to become thinner, more transparent, and stretchier. A person with a vagina is most fertile during this time.
- An endocrine imbalance occurs when a particular hormone is produced in insufficient or excessive amounts by the body. A hormonal imbalance can result in side effects such as watery vaginal discharge, whether it is caused by stress, diet, or PCOS. Despite this, not all people with PCOS will experience excess vaginal discharge.
- It is normal to experience watery vaginal discharge during pregnancy. The discharge may become heavier as you near your due date. You should know this as a sign that your body is preparing for labour. The discharge may be accompanied by pink streaks, which are called shows. Vaginal discharge caused by a watery amniotic fluid is different from water breaking. Unlike vaginal discharge, which is thin and transparent, amniotic fluid is pale and straw-coloured.
- Birth control methods commonly include hormonal contraceptives. Their effect is to increase estrogen and progesterone levels in the bloodstream. Hormonal contraceptives come in a variety of forms, including pills, skin patches, vaginal rings, and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Your vaginal discharge may change depending on what you use. In some women, vaginal discharge decreases throughout the menstrual cycle, while in others, the discharge increases consistently.
- The presence of foreign objects, such as tampons or condoms, in the vagina during prolonged periods may cause abnormal discharge. If this happens to you, see a doctor.
- In douching, water and other ingredients such as vinegar, iodine, and baking soda are mixed with water and used to wash or clean the inside of the vagina. The normal microflora of the vagina can be affected by douching. Bacteria and microbes are present in the vagina, collectively known as the microflora. By changing this microflora, a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis (BV) can affect vaginal discharge. A pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may result if you touch when you have an infection, which allows bacteria to spread through the body and into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
- Women in the postmenopausal phase experience vaginal atrophy, also known as vulvovaginal atrophy. Symptoms include vaginal dryness, bleeding after sex, irritation, and soreness, which are caused by decreased estrogen levels. Additionally, a thin, yellowish or greyish discharge may result.
- To maintain vaginal lubrication, the Bartholin glands produce fluid during sexual arousal and sexual activity. When you are aroused or engaged in sexual activity, you may notice an increase in watery discharge.
Infections and Medical Conditions That Cause Watery Discharge
Vaginal discharge is usually harmless, but if it changes in consistency or amount, you may have an infection.
Signs of a bacterial infection include the colour of the discharge and the accompanying symptoms.
Watery vaginal discharge can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- There are several sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that can cause changes in vaginal discharge, including gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis. In addition, there may be a burning sensation, itching, pain during urination, an unpleasant odour, rashes in the vagina, and abnormal bleeding. If left untreated, STDs can increase your chances of getting cervical cancer, HIV, and infertility problems.
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV): Lactobacillus species dominate the vaginal flora, also known as vaginal flora. Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the vaginal flora is altered, resulting in Gardnerella vaginalis and other anaerobic organisms colonising the vagina. Sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, herpes simplex virus, gonorrhoea, and HIV can be transmitted through bacterial vaginosis. Some people may not experience any symptoms of BV, but they typically experience vaginal discharge with a fishy odour.
- A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection caused primarily by the yeast Candida albicans, also known as yeast vaginitis or vaginal candidiasis. Infections caused by this fungus are typically due to the overgrowth of its normal microflora in the vagina. A vaginal rash, pain, and soreness are symptoms of the infection, along with irritation and intense itching of the vagina and vulva. Additionally, a thick, white, odourless discharge with a cottage cheese appearance is common (or an odourless, watery discharge less frequently).
- Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the above symptoms so that they can diagnose and develop a treatment plan.
Common Causes of Watery Vaginal Discharge
|
Cause |
Discharge Type |
Other Symptoms |
Doctor Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Ovulation |
Clear, stretchy |
None |
No |
|
Pregnancy |
Watery, increased |
Missed period |
No |
|
Arousal |
Watery, thin |
During/after sex |
No |
|
Yeast Infection |
Thick or watery |
Itching, soreness |
Yes |
|
Bacterial Vaginosis |
Watery, fishy odour |
Odour, irritation |
Yes |
|
STI (e.g. chlamydia) |
Yellow or watery, smelly |
Pain, bleeding |
Urgent |
|
Forgotten Tampon |
Watery, foul smell |
Fever, cramps |
Urgent |
|
Menopause Atrophy |
Thin, watery, yellow |
Dryness, bleeding |
Yes |
Home Remedies and Treatment for Watery Vaginal Discharge
The presence of watery vaginal discharge might not indicate infection, but wearing wet underwear can be uncomfortable.
To avoid worsening the situation and alleviate discomfort, you can take the following steps:
- Change underwear 1-2 times daily.
- Avoid vaginal douching because it alters the vaginal flora.
- Avoid scented tampons and pads.
- Avoid tight-fitting pantyhose
- Avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics.s
- Wear cotton underwear
- Wear a panty liner
- Avoid hot tubs and baths.
As a result of these recommendations, healthy watery discharge can be managed, and some illnesses that cause new watery discharge can be prevented.
When Should You See a Doctor for Watery Discharge?
Usually, the watery vaginal discharge does not cause harm, but it can sometimes signal a severe infection.
You may be asked some questions before your physical examination, such as:
- Can you describe the appearance and smell of the discharge?
- Are you experiencing pain in your back, pelvis, or abdomen?
- When was your last period?
- Are you sexually active?
- When was the last time you used feminine hygiene products?
- Are you on any medications?
Doctors might suggest treatment if necessary after asking questions and taking a sample of the discharge to test for infection.
How Mobi Doctor Can Help
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