Better understand your cycle thanks to vaginal discharge

We hide them, we judge them, and we lower our eyes when we discover them in our underwear… Today, we propose to talk about vaginal secretions !

Because these vaginal secretions (or white discharge, or leukorrhea for the more scientifically inclined) are anything but dirty or shameful. They are natural, normal, and above all: they reveal a lot about what's going on inside!

At Puissante, we help women to (re)connect with their bodies and therefore with what they express, whatever form it may take.

You will then realize that he is sending you signs!

In this article, we teach you how to decipher your vaginal secretions according to the phases of the menstrual cycle, how to differentiate between “normal” and “to monitor”, and how discharge can also be a valuable compass when experiencing a severe PMS (premenstrual syndrome) .

So, let's breathe, let's relax, and let's discover together how vaginal discharge can become our best friends, or almost !

What is vaginal secretion?

Vaginal secretions are fluids naturally produced by the vagina and cervix. They are a complex mixture of cervical mucus, dead cells, vaginal flora, and a little water and mucus.

All of this is regulated by hormones, primarily estrogens.

The consistency, appearance, color, quantity, odor, and even texture of vaginal discharge change throughout the cycle . This isn't a glitch; on the contrary, it's a fantastic self-observation tool for tracking your hormones, cycles, and overall bodily function.

While it may change throughout the different phases of your cycle, vaginal discharge is not supposed to have a strong or unpleasant odor. Like semen in men, its smell can vary slightly from woman to woman, but this fluid remains essentially odorless.

A healthy vagina... secretes! This is neither dirty nor a sign of infection.

Our vaginal discharge can be our best allies in understanding our menstrual cycle, hormones, fertile phases, and even our mood, actions, etc. By observing it, it's possible to know if we are in the follicular phase, ovulating, in the luteal phase, or about to begin our period .
A true integrated gynecological GPS!

So, what if we stopped seeing them as enemies and instead recognized their usefulness?

What is the purpose of vaginal discharge?

They have several useful functions:

1. To hydrate and maintain supple and comfortable vaginal mucous membranes.

2. Naturally cleanse the vagina and eliminate dead cells, impurities, bacteria and pathogens through cervical mucus.

3. Maintaining a balanced vaginal flora thanks to lactobacilli.

4. To prepare or support fertility by promoting or preventing fertilization depending on the time of the cycle.

5. And sometimes, to warn that something is not right (hormonal imbalances, infections or gynecological symptoms) detectable through smell, color or texture.

In other words, vaginal discharge is a great intimate /gynecological barometer, when you know how to decipher it!

Vaginal secretion is a marker of intimate health.

When we talk about vaginal secretions, we're not just talking about fluid: we're talking about hormonal health, cervical mucus, and sometimes revealing gynecological symptoms. It's a valuable indicator of your vaginal balance.

If you notice a sudden change in consistency, pelvic pain, itching, or abnormal vaginal discharge, consult your doctor, midwife, or gynecologist to rule out a possible infection, obtain medical advice, and possibly receive treatment.

Why monitor vaginal discharge?

As you've probably guessed, keeping an eye on the bottom of your underwear can have several advantages:

• Knowing how to track your cycles and identify which phase of the cycle you are in.

• Understanding why you have stomach pain, are tired or are extremely emotional etc.

• Anticipate and organize your daily life by taking into account your hormonal fluctuations and therefore your physical and mental states (physical activities, moments of productivity, important decisions, travel, etc.).

• Anticipating PMS and its symptoms ... to better manage them and understand their causes.

• Better understand your fertile periods (useful if you want to get pregnant or avoid it).

• To detect any potential hormonal imbalance or infections that might require treatment.
  
  

A quick reminder: vaginal secretions are not menstruation. They appear throughout the cycle and do not contain blood (except in the case of spotting, which we will discuss later).

Vaginal discharge according to the phases of the cycle

Now that you are convinced: the discharge produced by your vagina is no longer to be viewed with a bad eye but simply with a curious and benevolent eye … let’s move on to the theory!

Observing one's losses is like reading a map of female functioning, the main points of which are as follows:

Postmenstrual period: the follicular phase

Secretions:

This phase begins just after menstruation, usually between day 6 and day 9 of the cycle (day 1 being the first day of menstruation).

Your discharge is often almost non-existent . The vagina is a little dry, the endometrium is rebuilding itself.

If present, the secretions are scant, rather dry or slightly sticky.

• Texture: No discharge or very clear and scant secretions

• Tip: Don't confuse the absence of losses with a problem! It's perfectly normal.

Internal changes:

This is a hormonal period of rebuilding and ramping up. The body, after shedding the endometrium through the vagina (menstrual blood), gets back on track to potentially ovulate.

1. Estrogen levels are skyrocketing.

2. The endometrium (the uterine lining) rebuilds itself.

3. The ovarian follicles (future eggs) begin to mature under the influence of FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone).

4. The cervix remains closed and dry at first, then gradually opens.
   
   

In terms of sensations:

Energy returns : we are coming out of the premenstrual hormonal drop, so many women feel more lucid, more fit, like after a big reset.

Mental clarity : the rise in estrogen promotes concentration, memory, and inner calm. It's often a good time for making decisions, organizing, and reflecting.

Less sensitive to pain : estrogens have a slightly analgesic effect → some women are more physically resistant and recover better.

Increased sociability : the mood is lighter, PMS irritability has disappeared, and libido can start to show its face .

Skin and hair often brighter : the natural glow is slowly starting to return (thanks to estrogen).

During this phase, you can:

• Launching projects or planning.

• Start a regular physical activity routine.

• Reconnecting with yourself (journaling, meditation, intentions).

• Get a little ahead at work if possible.

• Make love if you feel like it (you are generally more receptive to stimulation).

Pre-ovulatory period

This period only lasts a few days and usually occurs between day 10 and day 13 of the cycle.

This is the period just before ovulation (or the reproductive peak).

Secretions:

The discharge becomes creamy, opaque, white, or yellowish.

• Texture: white, creamy, slightly sticky

• Sensation: constant dampness, slippery

• Tip: You can do the "finger test" with your cervical mucus = take a little of the discharge between two fingers, then spread them apart. If it's slightly stretchy, you're approaching ovulation.

Internal changes:

This is a bit like prime time in your cycle : your estrogen levels are at their peak, FSH continues to stimulate your ovaries, and an egg is preparing for imminent ovulation. The conditions are fertile (literally and figuratively).

Estrogen peak : “boost” effect throughout the body.

Increase in LH (luteinizing hormone) which triggers ovulation.

The cervix opens, softens, and allows sperm to pass through.

Body temperature is still low (it will rise just after ovulation).

In terms of sensations:

Peak mental and physical energy : you feel strong, productive, magnetic. This is the most sociable and extroverted phase of the cycle.

Libido at its peak : thanks to Mother Nature, the desire to get closer, explore, or connect can be more intense. Many women also report increased sexual pleasure, more fluid, more "obvious." It's also possible to feel all bodily stimulation and sensations more acutely, especially around the vagina.

Increased self-confidence : estrogen also affects neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin). You often feel more radiant, more assertive, and less self-judgmental.

Less pain : the body is supple, ready to receive or produce. It's a good time for demanding sports activities, or to try a new yoga pose, or... for pure enjoyment.

Excellent communication skills : perfect for meetings, important discussions, brainstorming sessions, or flirting. You are clear, quick, and generally more patient.

During this phase, you can:

• Launching a presentation, negotiating, building relationships

• Feeling attractive, reconnecting with your image

• Exploring new pleasures (intimate or otherwise)

• Take advantage of abundant natural lubrication

• Trusting you: in your choices, in your vitality, in your ability to succeed

Ovulation

Ovulation most often occurs between days 14 and 16 of the menstrual cycle. Ovulation is the highlight of the cycle. It's the moment when a mature egg is released from the ovary and begins its journey towards the fallopian tube, potentially awaiting fertilization. It's the star moment, the physiological turning point of the menstrual cycle.

Secretions:

This is when the discharge becomes most abundant and typical . It resembles raw egg white: stretchy, elastic, and translucent. This is nature facilitating the meeting of the egg and sperm.

• Texture: very fluid, elastic, transparent

• Quantity: often ++

• Tip: This texture is a strong indicator of fertility. If you're tracking your cycle with a view to trying for a baby, now's the time. If you wish to avoid it, exercise extreme caution.

Internal changes:

A surge of LH (luteinizing hormone) triggers ovulation.

The ovarian follicle releases the egg : this phase only lasts 24 hours (but sperm can survive up to 5 days…).

Estrogen levels are still high, but are starting to slowly decline.

The body begins to produce progesterone (which prepares for the luteal phase).

In terms of sensations:

A feeling of inner power : for many women, this is the phase where they feel aligned, in harmony with themselves. The mind is sharp, the body is available, the desire is there.

Natural charisma ++ : it's hormonal! Pheromones are at their peak, your skin is brighter, your voice slightly higher-pitched, and many women feel (and are perceived) as more seductive.

Libido in fusion : if you feel a stronger, more primal, or more connection-focused sexual desire, it's normal. Biologically, it's the moment when the body is "offering" it.

A slight pain or pinching sensation on one side of the lower abdomen (also called “mittelschmerz” in German) : this can occur at the exact moment of the release of the egg.

Greater tolerance for pain and frustration: it's a good time to do sports, try a new activity, dare to undertake projects.

During this phase, you can:

• To embark on a project or a meeting

• Cultivate your self-image, your sensuality, your confidence

• Explore your pleasure without restraint (libido at its peak)

• Plan the important or challenging things

The luteal phase (after ovulation)

Phase 4 typically runs from day 17 to day 28 , and therefore until the end of the menstrual cycle! Right after ovulation , the body enters a phase of regeneration and transformation. The empty follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which begins to secrete a large amount of progesterone. This hormone's main role is to prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy.

The amount of discharge decreases . It may become thicker, stickier, sometimes yellow, or even disappear a few days before menstruation.

• Texture: pasty, creamy, or almost nonexistent

• Color: white or slightly yellowish

• Tip: It's also often during this phase that PMS is triggered . If you're prone to mood swings, pain, or digestive issues, your secretions can alert you even before symptoms develop.

Internal changes:

Rise in progesterone → calming, sedative hormone, which promotes withdrawal, introspection, cocooning.

Estrogen levels gradually decrease.

Body temperature rises slightly (we often feel warmer).

If fertilization doesn't occur , there's a sudden drop in hormones a few days before menstruation… and that's when PMS (premenstrual syndrome) can kick in. 🎭

And now… we have good news!

This phase is particularly interesting to observe in order to anticipate premenstrual syndrome . This is also where the PMS treatment comes in : a natural supplement designed to relieve hormonal symptoms and bring more comfort to this time of the month. 

In terms of sensations:

The need to slow down : this is often a period of fatigue, even hypersensitivity. The "go, go, go" energy gives way to a desire for rest, sorting, and self-reflection . This is natural, normal, and not a glitch in the system.

Emotional fluctuations : you may feel irritable, anxious, vulnerable. It's also a time when you question yourself a lot. ("Why am I doing this job?", "Do I still love it?", "Why does this friend annoy me so much?").

Decreased libido or more intimate sensuality : less fire, but often more tenderness, a need for slowness, for warmth.

Slower digestion, bloating: due to progesterone, everything slows down. Including bowel movements.

Hyperconnection to the body : some women feel everything, very strongly. An itchy detail, an inappropriate remark, jeans that are too tight… everything becomes more intense.

During this phase, you can:

• Cocooning, slowing down, decluttering (your closets, your relationships, your thoughts)

• Take care of yourself gently (warm bath, reading, cuddles, no screens…)

• Reconnecting with your deepest feelings, your inner truth

• Write, dream, do nothing, have a good cry if necessary

• Anticipating pain or energy dips (hello PMS cure)
  

What is normal… and what is not (normal losses versus abnormal losses)

Because we have been taught too frequently to be ashamed of our losses, we have gotten into the habit of not talking about them, neither among ourselves, nor with family, nor to a healthcare professional.

We're telling you today: it's normal to have daily discharge ! Looking at it and talking about it could also prevent so much inconvenience.

Below, you'll find our advice on how to identify what warrants a consultation (and perhaps treatment). Although, as you've probably gathered, at Puissante, we strongly encourage you to speak up if you have any doubts!

Normal secretions:

• Odorless or slightly acidic.

• White, transparent or slightly yellowish.

• Without itching or pain.

• Quantity varies depending on the phases of the cycle.
  
  

Abnormal secretions, to be monitored:

• Strong, fishy or putrid odor.

• Green, grey or brownish colour.

• Foamy or lumpy texture or unusual liquid.

• Itching, burning, pain, heavy or abnormal discharge, or any other signs of infection or unusual discharge

• Presence of blood outside of menstruation.
  
  

These signs may indicate an infection (yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, STI) or a hormonal imbalance (hypo-estrogenism, vaginal dryness related to menopause …).

In these cases, make an appointment with a gynecologist, doctor, or midwife. Do not self-diagnose.

A closer look at vaginal dryness

As you've probably gathered, observing your underwear can give us a lot of clues about how our body is functioning properly (vaginal discharge, menstruation…), but it can also help detect possible vaginal dryness !

Furthermore, just because you notice vaginal discharge doesn't mean you're not experiencing dryness. A vagina can both produce fluid through its glands and still suffer from vaginal dryness.

The signs can sometimes resemble those of an infection (signs of redness or itching, various discomforts during sexual intercourse and/or outside of sexual intercourse…).
In that case, don't hesitate to:

• use an intimate balm as a long-term vulva care product, or even daily if needed.

• Use a water-based lubricant during sexual intercourse to supplement the natural production of vaginal lubrication.

If you have any doubts about the cause of your pain or discomfort, it cannot be stressed enough: you must consult a healthcare professional (gynecologist, doctor, midwife). If it's easier for you, consult a female professional, write down your symptoms, and remain factual: we're talking about health here, not judgment!

Our tips for starting your tracking

Now that you have the theory, what about the practice? The objective: to keep an open eye, observe, note without adding to your “to-do list” and your “mental to-do”.

Here are our tips for ensuring smooth, easy and, above all, pressure-free follow-up:

• Keep a menstrual cycle tracking journal and note down each month the dates of your period, your feelings, symptoms, state of mind and observations (texture, smell or unusual appearance of the fluid).

• Use a specialized application for tracking the female cycle such as Flo , Clue , Glow or My Cycle Period .

• Use the Notes app on your phone to create a dedicated space for your menstrual cycle!

• If needed or in case of doubt: take a photo of the losses so you can ask for advice and keep the date in mind.

Vaginal secretions are a superpower we've too often been taught to ignore. And yet, these discharges reveal a great deal about our health, our fertility, our menstrual cycle, our hormones, and our microbiota.

Knowing how to observe them also means knowing when to consult a doctor, when to act, and above all, when to reassure yourself. It's an act of health !

So, whether you're simply curious, experiencing PMS, postpartum, or going through menopause : reconnect with what your body is telling you. It might be time to trade taboo for knowledge.

And if you need a boost to navigate through your luteal phase, consider the Powerful PMS treatment, designed to help you experience your cycles with more comfort, balance, and power.

So don't forget to observe your vulva, love it and take care of it daily!

Lexicon :

• Vaginal secretions → what the vulva produces continuously

• Cervical mucus → particularly linked to ovulation, mucus secreted by glands in the uterus

• Vaginal flora → collection of protective microorganisms

• Bacterial vaginosis → bacterial imbalance caused by an imbalance of microorganisms in the vagina and a disruption of the flora

• Mycosis → fungal infection

Vaginal lubrication → fluid secreted by the vulva during sexual arousal. Vaginal lubrication is also known as " wetness ".