Leukorrhea, or vaginal
discharge, is the continuous secretions by the vagina that provide lubrication, help keep it clean,
and maintain the proper pH level to prevent infection. Normal vaginal
discharge is clear to cloudy white in color, without an objectionable odor, and varies in texture and amount (from very little to more noticeable) during the phases of the menstrual cycle.
Leukorrhea begins when a girl begins menstruating and decreases somewhat at menopause; it increases during pregnancy and decreases during breast-feeding.
Changes in the amount, color, texture, and smell of vaginal discharge can be a symptom of infections of the vagina or cervix. Common vaginal infections include trichomoniasis, candidiasis, and bacterial vaginitis. These infections generally cause itching and heavy, foul-smelling discharge but are easily curable. Unusual leukorrhea is also a symptom of malignancies of the cervix, uterus, or vagina, and persistent changes should be investigated.