As a parent or guardian to a young girl, it is important to know the different types of discharge and be able to assure them about these. Firstly, vaginal discharge is normal because the vagina is naturally wet. It's also slightly acidic to help prevent infections. All females experience some discharge, but we know it can be a pretty awkward thing to talk about.
Normal 'fertility discharge' is not something that young girls, parents or guardians should stress about. But if it's itchy or smelly, then a chemist or a doctor/clinic should be involved - especially if the young girl is sexually active.
TYPES OF DISCHARGE:
- Fertility discharge: This happens two weeks before the next period and looks like raw egg white. It's wet and slippery, does not smell or itch and gives a 'wet panty feeling'. This is normal and nothing to worry about.
- Brown mucus: This is usually a sign that their period is about to start or end. It's not 'bad blood', just blood that may have been there for longer than a day. Old blood goes brown.
- Thick, White & Clumpy Discharge: This is usually a vaginal yeast infection also known as candidiasis, which is common and is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in their system.
- Itchy discharge: Usually means a fungal infection like thrush.
- Fishy-smelling discharge: This is usually an infection called bacterial vaginitis and is not a sexually transmitted infection.
- Smelly, frothy, green/yellow/white discharge is a sign of an infection - usually one that's been passed on during sex. It's important to have this type of discharge investigated and treated.
If a young girl has not had their first period, vaginal discharge is one of the signs that it might be on its way. Now is a great time to stock up on a few Kotex® pads, tampons and any other products that she might need.
WHAT ABOUT WHITE & YELLOW DISCHARGE?
In pre-menstrual girls, the sticky white to slightly yellow vaginal discharge is perfectly normal too. It starts when their body changes during puberty. Don't worry about it if it's not smelly and itchy. It simply means that their body is maturing and changing and preparing to have a period one day.
DISCHARGE DURING THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE
A cycle is from the first day of one period to the first day of the next period. Once they have stopped bleeding, they may notice that their vagina is dry for a few days.
Then they may notice the fertility discharge (see above). It simply means that their body is fertile during this time aka ovulation is taking place. As a parent or guardian, you may also notice that their mood is good, and their confidence is swinging. This is because their hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) have peaked, and this makes them feel good about themselves!
Counting 14 days forward from when this happens gives a general prediction of when the next period will begin, or you can simply use our Kotex Period Calculator to track their cycle.
HOW TO HELP THEM DEAL WITH DISCHARGE
There are ways that you as a parent or guardian can help young girls feel more comfortable with discharge. Try encouraging the following:
- Panty liners or thin pads are a great way to protect their undies from first-day period leaks AND any kind of discharge. The Kotex® range has plenty to offer.
- To maintain great personal and vaginal hygiene.
- Not to wear tight jeans.
- To always wipe from front to back after making a pee.
- To not put bubbles or perfumed oil into their bath water.
- To cut down on sweets and pastries, especially if they have an itchy discharge.
- To open to you or talk to a close friend about their questions. Remember that Kotex® is always there for you and your young girl, so ask us anything!
The advice provided in this material is general in nature and is not intended as medical advice. If you need medical advice, please consult your health care professional.
