Understanding White Sticky Vaginal Discharge: Causes & What to Do

Question
I have been having white sticky discharge for about the last 7 or 8 months. This occurs only after my Menstrual cycle and lasts for about 5 days. So it is like another period, only lighter and clear. I was just trying to get a suggestion on what this might be. I had an exam about 2 years ago and everything came back fine. Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hi Erica,

While the symptoms that you are describing are non-specific, or suggestive of ovulation, the timing doesn't make sense.

What you are describing is probably a variation of normal.

Also, if it has been two years, then you are do for an exam.  Perhaps they can elucidate the nature of your problem then.  Although my suspicion is that there is no problem at all.

While it is normal to expect some changes in your cycle, a large departure from what you expect can evidence a problem.

Another possibility is a foreign body reaction.  Which is more common than you might think.  It can happen from any reason from an IUD to retained tampon fragments.  In either situation, an exam would probably offer an explanation.  

With more information I would be happy to address this issue further.

Thank you for the question.

Dr. Tim