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Vaginal mucus (or vaginal fluid) is a secretion secreted by the cervix and vaginal walls. Its main characteristics are its texture, color, and odor, which vary from woman to woman. In a healthy body, the discharge is watery, slightly sticky, and resembles raw egg white in appearance and color.
Why can drafts leave stains on underwear?
It’s normal: All women experience discharge that stains their underwear in varying shades of white. The most watery discharge is clear or milky. As it dries, the liquid portion evaporates, leaving a whitish or yellowish layer that may harden. This discharge is completely normal if:
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There is no or only a slight salty smell .
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It is not accompanied by burning or itching .
(If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor to check your condition.)
Composition of vaginal discharge
All mucous membranes need hydration. Vaginal health is maintained by a thick layer of secretions, composed of:
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Secretions or mucus produced by the cervix, endometrium, and Bartholin’s glands.
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Dead cells of the columnar epithelium of the cervix and vaginal epithelium.
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Fluid that passes through the walls of blood vessels supplying the reproductive organs.
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A large amount of bacteria colonizing the vagina.
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Secretions from the sebaceous and sweat glands at the entrance to the vulva.
In short, vaginal discharge is mostly mucus, water, and cells normally present in the body. It’s a natural phenomenon, as normal as saliva in the mouth.
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