Wasn’t red discharge enough that we have to go through white discharge as well?
Well, we all know about the red discharge that women go through every month, that is,
periods but do you know about a phase before the periods? It's a phase where women have
to suffer from white discharge before periods.
We all know about the monthly cycle of periods and somewhat understand its mechanism
but is white discharge a sign of period coming? Generally, the onset of white discharge is
before periods so it may seem so but it can be untrue as well. So, let us find out more about
this vaginal discharge before periods and clear our doubts.

WHAT DOES WHITE DISCHARGE MEAN?

White discharge is a discharge of cells and fluid from the vagina and is white. There is no
definite shape or texture of the discharge. It can be watery or like jelly. The color is subject
to change as well. Though mostly the color is white, it can turn yellow as well.

WHY DOES THE WHITE DISCHARGE TURN YELLOW?

There is a list of possible causes as to why white discharge turns yellow in color, which are:
● The easiest guess would be that menstruation is near. The white discharge may get
mixed up with the surroundings of the uterus made into a cushion and soft wall of
blood. This is the most common cause for a yellow discharge.
● Yellow color is generally considered to be a sign of infection especially coming out of
the vagina. Dark yellow urine is a sign and so is a yellow discharge. The easy way to
detect is to observe whether the discharge is foul-smelling or not.
● Though it occurs rarely, there are chances that a change in diet causes color change
as well. Consumption of a lot of vitamins can make that possible.
● A short menstrual cycle can cause white discharge to turn to yellow discharge. It is
very common for women to see brownish-yellow discharge occurring after the
periods, usually towards the end of it. Well, shot cycles can cause brownish-yellow
discharge before periods.

There are many other diseases like cervicitis, gonorrhea or chlamydia, bacterial vaginosis,
trichomoniasis, pelvic inflammatory diseases that are caused due to either sexually
transmitted diseases or infections caused due to bacteria, fungus, or virus that turns the
white discharge into a yellow one.
However, we should always be alert and consult with a doctor immediately if it is needed.

WHY DOES WHITE DISCHARGE OCCUR BEFORE PERIODS?

Though Shakespeare once said that – “What’s in a name?” but all the mystery and clarity
does lie with the name. A name provides an identity to all. The white discharge before
periods has a name for itself too. The white discharge is known as leukorrhea that occurs
before periods.
The phase of white discharge before periods is a part of the menstrual cycle known as the
luteal phase. The white discharge because of the high levels of progesterone hormones
being released in the body.
Watery discharge before periods is often a sign of high estrogen levels in the body. While a
cloudy, white-colored mucus discharge is often due to high progesterone levels. Some of its
causes are:
● Pregnancy – The white discharge before periods can be an evident sign of
pregnancy. Though it is hard to differ because the discharge remains the same but if
observed carefully, the discharge is much thicker and creamier when a woman
conceives.
● Functioning Reproductive System – The presence of white discharge indicates a
healthy and normal functioning reproductive system. The rise in hormone levels is
very normal which generally causes this discharge. So, it indicates vaginal awareness
and functioning.
● Birth Control – When a woman is sexually active, she tends to consume
contraceptive pills or birth control pills. If you are that woman then you know the
reason for increased white discharge. Birth control pills are very strong and cause
changes in the hormonal levels, which is why the discharge is often more before
periods.

FUN FACT

The white discharge is often used as a tool for conducting a natural family planning strategy.
It is assumed that the thin and stretchy texture of the mucus is considered to be fertile. This
is based on the justification that when an egg is released then this type of discharge occurs.
However, a thick and white discharge is often considered to be a symbol of infertility. This
type of discharge does not occur during the ovulation period so it may be true. However,
these facts are highly subjective and not common for all.

CONCLUSION

White discharge before periods is a common mechanism of the body and we must not
worry because of that. It is very normal and occurs to every woman. However, be aware and
observant of the changing colors as it may give us some hint about the probable onset of an
infection or disease.
There are situations where women, young or old, get worried about the discharge or the
flow of the discharge. So, when any such thing happens with you, don't shy away from
discussing it with a near and dear one or a doctor.