What Causes White Discharge During or After Sex?
Some types of discharge support sexual activity. Cervical mucus, for example, cleans and lubricates the vaginal canal. Penile fluid, which flows through the same tube as urine, neutralizes leftover acidity so sperm can safely pass.
Sexual secretions are usually clear or milky white. Changes in vaginal or penile discharge may be a sign of an underlying infection if you're experiencing pain, discomfort, or other symptoms.
Arousal
Sexual excitement is a common cause of clear or milky white vaginal discharge. This fluid cleans, protects, and lubricates the vagina. As long as penetration isn't painful, this type of discharge is typical.
Menstrual cycle
It's natural for your vaginal discharge to change throughout your menstrual cycle.
You might notice thick, white discharge right before your menstrual period starts or just after it ends. During ovulation, vaginal discharge is clear and stretchy, like egg white.
If you have sex during these times, you may notice this type of white discharge. This is expected.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
BV occurs when the natural balance of vaginal bacteria is disrupted. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as penetrative sex with a new partner, trying out a new condom brand, or using a fragranced soap to wash your vulva and vagina.
In addition to white or gray discharge, BV can cause:
fishy or foul vaginal odor
burning during urination
increased vaginal discharge
persistent itching
BV can be cured with oral or topical antibiotics. In some cases, BV can go away without treatment, but it's best to make an appointment with a healthcare professional.
Untreated BV can increase your risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and complications during pregnancy.
Yeast infection
Yeast infections (candidiasis) are caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a naturally occurring fungus found in several areas of the body.
This can happen for a number of reasons, including penetrative sex with a new partner, hormonal fluctuations, or when taking antibiotics.
Yeast infections typically cause thick, white discharge that looks a bit like cottage cheese. It usually doesn't have an odor. Other symptoms include:
itching
painful penetration
swelling around the vaginal opening
burning during urination
You may be able to treat a simple yeast infection with over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medication.
If your symptoms are severe or persist after OTC treatment, make an appointment with a healthcare professional. You may need prescription-strength antifungals to clear the infection.
STI
STIs are often asymptomatic. However, if symptoms do occur, unusual changes in discharge are at the top of the list.
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis can all cause white discharge, spotting, and painful urination. Trichomoniasis can also cause itching and a strong fishy odor.
Arousal
Sexual excitement can cause clear or milky white penile discharge. This fluid, known as pre-come, is typical. Ejaculation, which often occurs alongside climax, is also white. It's made of semen and sperm.
White discharge caused by sexual excitement is the only type of penile discharge that's healthy.
Urinary tract infection (UTI)
UTIs can affect different parts of the urinary tract. A penile UTI usually occurs when bacteria from the anus enters the urethra. This can lead to urethritis, or inflammation of the urethra.
In addition to white discharge, penile UTIs can cause:
bloody or cloudy urine
burning or painful urination
constant urge to urinate
frequently passing small amounts of urine
UTIs are treated with prescription antibiotics, although your doctor may prescribe other medications to help soothe your symptoms.
Yeast infection
Like vaginal yeast infections, penile yeast infections are due to Candida overgrowth. It often happens after having penetrative sex with someone who has a vaginal yeast infection.
In addition to thick, white discharge, penile yeast infections can cause:
burning or itching around the head of the penis
burning or itching under any foreskin
crusty, flaky, or peeling areas of skin
difficulty pulling back any foreskin
shiny sores or blisters
Yeast infections are treated with OTC or prescription antifungal medications.
STI
Although asymptomatic STIs are most common, some people experience unusual discharge.
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis can all cause white discharge and painful urination. Gonorrhea can also cause green or yellow discharge, while trichomoniasis can cause itching and other irritation.
It's important to get tested if there's any chance that you've contracted an STI. If you test positive for one of these three, your healthcare professional will prescribe antibiotics.
The bottom line
White vaginal or penile discharge is common during and after sexual activity. It's usually a result of sexual arousal. As long as it isn't accompanied by other symptoms, it's typically not a cause for concern.
Discharge that's thicker than expected, a color other than white, or foul-smelling could indicate an infection. If you're unsure of the potential cause or have tried OTC medications without success, make an appointment with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms.
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