Thread: Worried about discharge!!! HELP

I have just turned 18 and have become concerned with my discharge after reading a magazine article. I haven't talked to my parents or doctors yet because I am too embarrassed. I'm hoping someone can help!

I never thought it was irregular to have continuous discharge. I have had it everyday (other than when I'm on my period) since about 7th grade. I am a virgin, so I know it cannot have anything to do with an STD. Within the past year it has become somewhat watery, but it varies within the month. It is a yellowish-white hue and has a foul odor. Even after I wash myself in the shower, the discharge, my underwear, and my vagina begin to smell within the next few hours. Is this some kind of infection?

Discharge throughout your cycle is normal. In fact, changes in cervical mucus is one of the symptoms many women use to track their fertility cycles. However, if this discharge seems unusual to you, smells bad, or you're feeling itchy around your labia, it's time to see a doctor. It could be either a yeast infection or a bacterial infection, and it's going to take a medical professional to diagnose which one and give you a prescription to get your system re-balanced. Thanks to the wonders of modern medicine, these are usually quick and easy to fix.

This is nothing to be embarrassed about--most women have had infections of one sort or another in their lifetmes (usually more than one!) and for doctors it's probably as common as sore throats. It's no reflection on your sexual status, your hygiene, or anything else, just one of the occasional inconveniences of being female!