What leads to Sticky Vaginal Discharge? – Know When to Visit a Doctor

Fluid vaginal discharge is a common phenomenon in females which serves as a defense mechanism to keep infection away and maintain an optimum pH level.

Vaginal discharge may change throughout the period cycle. However, if the vaginal discharge changes in color, texture or consistency, increases in volume or accompanies other symptoms such as the foul-smelling vagina, vaginal itching or sharp pain, it could be a sign of an infection, like-

• bacterial vaginosis
• vaginal yeast infection
• pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• cervicitis
• chlamydia
• trichomoniasis
• gonorrhea

If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, do not self-diagnose. It is better to see a gynecologist and get a proper treatment to specifically address the condition. 

Causes of sticky vaginal discharge

A female experiences many types of vaginal discharges. Vaginal discharge is different in different phases of a female’s menstrual cycle. A female is likely to experience a change in the texture or color of vaginal discharge in ovulation, before or after periods, and during pregnancy. Read ahead to know what causes sticky white discharge-

• Sticky vaginal discharge during ovulation

Ovulation is the point in the middle of the female’s menstrual cycle when her body releases an egg for potential fertilization. As the female approaches ovulation in her menstrual cycle, the production of cervical mucus increases, resulting in more vaginal discharge. Vaginal discharge right before and during ovulation is usually clear and sticky. 

This increased vaginal discharge helps to push the sperm up the cervix to fertilize the released egg. 

• Sticky vaginal discharge before periods  

In the days after ovulation, the vaginal discharge changes from a thin, clear, and sticky discharge to a thick and sticky vaginal discharge. Thick sticky vaginal discharge is also lesser than the discharge before ovulation. This happens due to additional hormonal changes that alter the consistency of the cervical mucus and eventually cause the periods to start.

• Sticky vaginal discharge during pregnancy​

In the very early stages of pregnancy, just around the days of your expected period, the amount of vaginal discharge can increase. 

You are likely to experience an increased amount of sticky vaginal discharge throughout your pregnancy, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy. 

During pregnancy, if you experience a sudden increase in vaginal discharge, you should contact your OB-GYN right away. A sudden increase in sticky vaginal discharge in pregnancy can be a sign of leaking amniotic fluid, and you should be addressed by a doctor as soon as possible. Let your doctor know about any changes in the color, consistency, or smell of the vaginal discharges as such factors during pregnancy could be a sign of an infection. If it concerns you, speak to an OB-GYN about any symptoms and the type of vaginal discharge you’re experiencing to rule out risks or complications. 

Other causes of sticky vaginal discharge

Ovulation and pregnancy are not the only times you may experience sticky vaginal discharge. There are many other factors that can cause changes in vaginal discharge. Vaginal discharge if accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms can be a sign of an underlying condition or infection such as gonorrhea, pelvic inflammatory disease, etc. This is why you should never rely solely on self-diagnosis and consult an expert to find out the causes and get timely treatment, if necessary. 

Other causes of sticky vaginal discharge include:

• heavy workouts
• sexual arousal 
• sexual activities or intercourse  
• stress 
• sudden changes in diet
• recent surgery involving the cervix or nearby organs
• recently started hormonal birth control pills

A female may also experience sticky vaginal discharge due to infections like bacterial vaginosis

• bacterial vaginosis
• vaginal yeast infection
• pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• cervicitis
• STIs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis

When do you need to visit a gynecologist for sticky vaginal discharge?

Thick or clear sticky vaginal discharge is usually nothing to worry about. But, in some cases, sticky vaginal discharge can be a sign of an underlying condition or an infection. 

Experiencing sticky vaginal discharge and other changes in your vaginal discharge can be stressful and worrying. If the vaginal discharge increases in volume, change texture or color or has a foul smell, you should discuss these symptoms with your gynecologist. 

It is important to not ignore your intimate health. Make an appointment with a gynecologist if sticky vaginal discharge is accompanied by:

• pain
• itching
• burning sensation while urination
• foul smell
• vaginal bleeding which is not related to your periods

A gynecologist can help you determine the cause of unexpected changes in vaginal discharge and also provide you with an effective treatment method. Consult the best gynecologist at Pristyn Care.