Some vaginal discharge is normal and healthy: it is usually clear or white, mild-smelling and changes through the menstrual cycle. Discharge that changes in color, smell or amount, or comes with itching, burning, pain or bleeding, can signal an infection such as yeast, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis or an STI, and is worth a simple swab test.
- Normal
- Clear to white, mild smell
- Changes with
- Cycle, pregnancy, pills
- Common causes
- Yeast, BV, trichomoniasis, STIs
- Test
- Vaginal swab, pH, microscopy, PCR
- Exam time
- About 5–10 minutes
- Results
- Some same day; PCR in a few days
What does normal discharge look like?
Vaginal discharge is fluid made by glands in the cervix and vagina. It keeps the vagina moist, carries away old cells and helps protect against infection. Normal discharge is usually clear, white or off-white, has a mild smell or none, and does not cause itching or pain.
- Around ovulation it often becomes clear, slippery and stretchy, like raw egg white.
- After ovulation it tends to be thicker, whiter and less in amount.
- Pregnancy, hormonal contraception and arousal can increase the amount.
- After menopause discharge usually decreases, and dryness becomes more common — see vaginal dryness.
What does my discharge mean? Color and smell guide
| What you notice | Possible cause | Other clues |
|---|---|---|
| Thick, white, cottage-cheese-like, little smell | Yeast infection | Itching, redness, burning |
| Thin, grey-white, fishy smell | Bacterial vaginosis | Smell stronger after sex or a period; usually little itching |
| Frothy, yellow-green, unpleasant smell | Trichomoniasis | Itching, soreness, pain when urinating |
| Yellow or cloudy, increased amount | Chlamydia or gonorrhea | Often no symptoms; bleeding after sex, pelvic pain |
| Brown or blood-tinged | End of a period, spotting, cervical changes | Bleeding between periods or after sex needs a check |
| Very strong, foul smell | Forgotten tampon or other foreign body | Remove if possible and seek care |
These patterns overlap, and more than one infection can be present at the same time, so appearance alone cannot confirm a diagnosis. For an overview of each infection, see vaginal infections.
When should you get it checked?
- The color, smell or amount has clearly changed from your usual pattern
- Itching, burning, soreness or pain during sex or urination
- Symptoms return after over-the-counter treatment, or come back several times a year
- You have a new partner or think you may have been exposed to an STI
- You are pregnant and notice any change
- Discharge has changed color, smell or amount
- Itching or burning that keeps returning
- Unsure whether it is yeast, BV or an STI
- Over-the-counter treatment did not help
- Swab and microscopy to find the cause
- Targeted treatment instead of guesswork
- STI testing added when relevant
- Prevention advice and English documents
How discharge is tested at Yoonho
- Consultation in English Your doctor asks about your symptoms, cycle, sexual history and any treatments you have tried. Questions are asked privately and without judgment.
- Gentle speculum exam A brief pelvic exam lets the doctor see the discharge and the cervix.
- Swab tests A swab is checked for pH and under the microscope; PCR testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomonas and other organisms can be added.
- Treatment plan If the cause is clear, treatment can often start the same day; PCR results usually follow within a few days.
If you would like a wider screen, ask about the women’s STD test panel.
Treatment and prevention tips
Treatment depends on the cause: antifungal medication for yeast, antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis or bacterial STIs. Partners may also need treatment for STIs. Finish the full course even if symptoms improve.
- Avoid douching and scented washes, sprays or wipes; plain water is enough for the vulva.
- Wear breathable cotton underwear and change out of wet swimwear or gym clothes promptly.
- Use condoms with new partners.
- Do not self-treat repeatedly with antifungals without a confirmed diagnosis.
Cost and documents for international patients
At Yoonho Women’s Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, a consultation with swab tests is generally around ₩30,000–100,000, and medication around ₩10,000–50,000, as a general guide; PCR panels cost more, and a written estimate is given after consultation. Residents with National Health Insurance are usually covered for medically necessary tests; travelers can request English receipts and a diagnosis for travel insurance claims.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to have discharge every day?
Yes. Most women of reproductive age have some discharge every day, and the amount and texture change through the cycle. A change from your usual pattern matters more than the presence of discharge.
Can I tell the cause from the color?
Color and smell give clues but are not reliable on their own, and two infections can occur together. A quick swab test is the most accurate way to know which treatment you need.
Should I avoid sex before the test?
If possible, avoid sex, douching and vaginal medications for about 24–48 hours before your visit, as they can affect test results. Testing during a heavy period is less accurate, so come before or after if you can.
Do I need a prescription for treatment in Korea?
Oral antibiotics and many antifungal tablets require a prescription in Korea. Pharmacists may sell some topical products, but a diagnosis first helps avoid using the wrong medication.
Will my test be confidential?
Yes. Your consultation and results are private, and English documents are issued only to you.
OB-GYN Specialist · Director of OB-GYN
M.D., Ewha Womans University College of Medicine · Former Clinical Instructor, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital · Member, Korean Society of Menopause
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.