apollo
Online Doctor Consultation & Medicines
  • Login
ic_search_new

How To Reduce White Discharge?

Learn effective home remedies, lifestyle changes, and medical treatments to reduce white vaginal discharge naturally and safely. Understand causes and when to seek medical help.

reviewerImg

Written by

Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025

Introduction

White discharge, also known as vaginal discharge, is a common occurrence in women. While it is usually normal and a sign of a healthy reproductive system, excessive or abnormal discharge can sometimes indicate an underlying issue. If you're concerned about white discharge and want to learn how to manage it, this article will guide you through its causes, symptoms, and effective ways to reduce it.

Understanding White Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a fluid produced by glands in the cervix and vagina. It helps keep the vaginal area clean, prevents infections, and maintains a healthy pH balance. Normal discharge is usually clear or milky white, odorless or mild-smelling, and varies in consistency depending on the menstrual cycle.

However, if the discharge is:

  • Thick, lumpy, or cottage cheese-like

  • Yellow, green, or gray in color

  • Foul-smelling

  • Accompanied by itching, burning, or irritation

It may indicate an infection or other health concern that requires attention.

Common Causes of Excessive White Discharge

Several factors can lead to an increase in white discharge:

1. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can alter discharge consistency.
2. Yeast Infections: Overgrowth of Candida fungus can cause thick, white discharge with itching.
3. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): An imbalance of vaginal bacteria leads to grayish-white discharge with a fishy odor.
4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Trichomoniasis or chlamydia may cause abnormal discharge.
5. Poor Hygiene: Using harsh soaps or not changing sanitary pads frequently can disrupt vaginal health.
6. Diet & Stress: High sugar intake and stress can affect vaginal flora.

How to Reduce White Discharge Naturally?

If your discharge is normal but bothersome, or if you want to prevent infections, here are some helpful tips:

1. Maintain Proper Hygiene

  • Wash the vaginal area with plain water or mild, unscented soap.

  • Avoid douching, as it disrupts natural bacteria.

  • Change underwear daily and opt for cotton panties for better airflow.

2. Follow a Balanced Diet

  • Eat probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods to maintain healthy bacteria.

  • Reduce sugar intake, as it can promote yeast growth.

  • Stay hydrated to flush out toxins.

For White Discharge Reduction Consult Top Gyenacologists

Dr. Abhishek Daga, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Abhishek Daga

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

20 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Kolkata

Gynae Care Fertility Centre, Kolkata

recommendation

88%

(150+ Patients)

600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Swati Shah, Surgical Oncologist

Dr. Swati Shah

Surgical Oncologist

15 Years • DNB Surgical Oncology, certified Robotic Cancer Surgeon

Ahmedabad

Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad

recommendation

94%

(25+ Patients)

1500

1600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Swarnakumari C, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Swarnakumari C

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

40 Years • MD., DGO., DA. FACS. FICOG

Chennai

Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai

recommendation

95%

(75+ Patients)

1000

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr Shravya Manohar, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr Shravya Manohar

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

9 Years • MB,MS OBGYN ,MRCOG (Lon),FMAS

Chennai

Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai

recommendation

95%

(25+ Patients)

1000

1500

No Booking Fees

3. Wear Breathable Clothing
Tight synthetic fabrics trap moisture, increasing infection risk. Choose loose, cotton-based clothing.

4. Practice Safe Sex

  • Use protection to prevent STIs that cause abnormal discharge.

  • Urinate after intercourse to flush out bacteria.

5. Manage Stress
High stress weakens immunity, making infections more likely. Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

6. Avoid Irritants
Skip scented pads, tampons, or sprays that can cause irritation.

When to See a Doctor

While mild white discharge is normal, consult a doctor if you notice:

  • Unusual color or foul odor

  • Itching, burning, or swelling

  • Pain during urination or intercourse

  • Sudden increase in discharge

These could be signs of an infection needing medical treatment, such as antifungal creams for yeast infections or antibiotics for BV.

How Apollo 24|7 Can Help

If you're experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms, Apollo 24|7 offers:

  • Online consultations with gynecologists for expert advice.

  • Diagnostic tests to identify infections or hormonal imbalances.

  • Personalized treatment plans to restore vaginal health.

Book an appointment today for a hassle-free consultation from the comfort of your home!

Conclusion

White discharge is usually a normal part of vaginal health, but changes in color, smell, or texture may require attention. By following good hygiene, a balanced diet, and healthy lifestyle habits, you can manage discharge effectively. If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek medical help for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Consult Top Gyenacologists

Dr. Abhishek Daga, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Abhishek Daga

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

20 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Kolkata

Gynae Care Fertility Centre, Kolkata

recommendation

88%

(150+ Patients)

600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Swati Shah, Surgical Oncologist

Dr. Swati Shah

Surgical Oncologist

15 Years • DNB Surgical Oncology, certified Robotic Cancer Surgeon

Ahmedabad

Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad

recommendation

94%

(25+ Patients)

1500

1600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Swarnakumari C, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Swarnakumari C

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

40 Years • MD., DGO., DA. FACS. FICOG

Chennai

Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai

recommendation

95%

(75+ Patients)

1000

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr Shravya Manohar, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr Shravya Manohar

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

9 Years • MB,MS OBGYN ,MRCOG (Lon),FMAS

Chennai

Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai

recommendation

95%

(25+ Patients)

1000

1500

No Booking Fees

For White Discharge Reduction Consult Top Gyenacologists

Dr. Abhishek Daga, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Abhishek Daga

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

20 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Kolkata

Gynae Care Fertility Centre, Kolkata

recommendation

88%

(150+ Patients)

600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Swati Shah, Surgical Oncologist

Dr. Swati Shah

Surgical Oncologist

15 Years • DNB Surgical Oncology, certified Robotic Cancer Surgeon

Ahmedabad

Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad

recommendation

94%

(25+ Patients)

1500

1600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Swarnakumari C, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Swarnakumari C

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

40 Years • MD., DGO., DA. FACS. FICOG

Chennai

Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai

recommendation

95%

(75+ Patients)

1000

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr Shravya Manohar, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr Shravya Manohar

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

9 Years • MB,MS OBGYN ,MRCOG (Lon),FMAS

Chennai

Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai

recommendation

95%

(25+ Patients)

1000

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Mangla Kawade, Infertility Specialist

Dr. Mangla Kawade

Infertility Specialist

30 Years • MBBS, MD (Obs & Gyn)
.Infertility Specialist - Laparoscopic Surgeon (Obs & Gyn),Gynecologist.

Bhopal

Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal

800

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Gyenacologists

Dr. Abhishek Daga, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Abhishek Daga

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

20 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Kolkata

Gynae Care Fertility Centre, Kolkata

recommendation

88%

(150+ Patients)

600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Swati Shah, Surgical Oncologist

Dr. Swati Shah

Surgical Oncologist

15 Years • DNB Surgical Oncology, certified Robotic Cancer Surgeon

Ahmedabad

Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad

recommendation

94%

(25+ Patients)

1500

1600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Swarnakumari C, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Swarnakumari C

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

40 Years • MD., DGO., DA. FACS. FICOG

Chennai

Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai

recommendation

95%

(75+ Patients)

1000

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr Shravya Manohar, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr Shravya Manohar

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

9 Years • MB,MS OBGYN ,MRCOG (Lon),FMAS

Chennai

Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai

recommendation

95%

(25+ Patients)

1000

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Mangla Kawade, Infertility Specialist

Dr. Mangla Kawade

Infertility Specialist

30 Years • MBBS, MD (Obs & Gyn)
.Infertility Specialist - Laparoscopic Surgeon (Obs & Gyn),Gynecologist.

Bhopal

Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal

800

No Booking Fees