White discharge is a white fluid that exits the vagina or penis, including after sexual activity.
Some types of discharge are designed to facilitate sexual activity.
For instance, cervical mucus lubricates and cleans the vagina. Penile fluid, which passes through the same canal as pee, neutralises any remaining acidity, allowing sperm to pass safely.
These liquids are typical. They are typically transparent to milky white.
In other instances, white discharge results from an infection. Consider the probable causes of white discharge during or following sexual activity.
White vaginal discharge observed during sexual activity
Typically, vaginal discharge is expected during penile-vaginal intercourse.
Sexual arousal
Sexual arousal is a frequent cause of white discharge. Typically, vaginal discharge is transparent or milky white in colour. The vagina is cleansed, protected, and lubricated by this fluid.
The discharge is more obvious while sexually stimulated since it thickens and intensifies. This form of discharge is common so long as penetration is not unpleasant.
Menstrual cycle changes
Changes in vaginal discharge are normal throughout the menstrual cycle.
It is common to have thick, white discharge at the beginning and conclusion of your period. During ovulation, the vaginal discharge is transparent and elastic, similar to egg white.
If you engage in sexual activity during these times, you may see this white discharge. This is anticipated.
White vaginal discharge following sexual activity
Typically, white vaginal discharge during sexual activity is indicative of an infection.
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an abnormal overgrowth of vaginal bacteria. It occurs when the pH of the vagina is altered by sexual activity, douching, or frequent cleaning.
Although BV typically affects sexually active individuals, it is possible to contract BV without sexual activity.
The colour of BV discharge may be off-white or grey. Additional potential symptoms include:
Stronger-than-usual discharge itching and burning during urinating Fishy odour that intensifies after sexual activity
Occasionally, BV does not cause any symptoms.
The treatment for BV is antibiotics. It may also resolve on its own, although it is recommended to see a doctor if you have it. Untreated BV increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy problems.
Candida infection
Candida, a natural vaginal fungus, causes a yeast infection when it multiplies excessively. Additionally referred to as vaginal candidiasis.
Yeast infections can spread via sexual contact. However, like BV, yeast infections can develop without sexual contact.
Yeast infection discharge is typically thick, white, and resembles cottage cheese. Typically, it does not have a foul odour.
Other signs and symptoms include:
- searing redness of the vagina and vulva, excruciating urination, and excruciating sexual penetration
- Antifungal medications are available over-the-counter or by prescription for treatment.
Infections transmitted sexually
After sexual intercourse, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can cause white vaginal discharge. STIs are transmitted through unprotected oral, vaginal, and anal intercourse.
Among the possible causes and symptoms are:
- Chlamydia, which can result in yellow-white discharge, bleeding between periods, and uncomfortable urination. Occasionally, chlamydia is asymptomatic.
- Trichomoniasis, which results in a fishy discharge that may be white, clear, green, or yellow, is caused by a parasite. Additionally, you may have itching, redness, burning, and discomfort when urinating.
- Gonorrhea, which may be symptomless. If you have symptoms, you may experience white discharge, more discharge than usual, intermenstrual bleeding, and uncomfortable urinating.
- Antibiotics are utilised to treat certain STIs. If you have a sexually transmitted infection, your recent sexual partners should also be treated.
White penile discharge during and following sexual activity
The following factors may account for white discharge from your penis.
Sexual arousal
Sexual stimulation can induce penile discharge ranging from clear to milky white. This usual fluid is known as pre-come.
The discharge during ejaculation is similarly white. It is composed of sperm and sperm.
Only white discharge induced by sexual excitation is considered normal penile discharge.
Urinary tract disease
Infections of the urinary tract (UTIs) can affect various portions of the urinary system. The penile urethra, which connects the bladder to the penis, is included.
Typically, a UTI in the urethra occurs when germs from the anus enter the urethra.
This can result in urethritis, which is an inflammation of the urethra. Urethritis is characterised by penile discharge and a burning sensation during urination.
Additional signs of a UTI include:
Frequent passing of small volumes of pee Constant desire to urinate Urine that is opaque, red or pink (bloody) Urine that has a potent odour
Antibiotics are used to treat UTIs, although your doctor may also prescribe other treatments.
Candida infection
Similar to vaginal yeast infections, penile yeast infections are caused by an excess of Candida. It frequently occurs following penile-vaginal contact with a person who has a vaginal yeast infection.
In addition to a white discharge, yeast infections of the penile can cause:
- White patches caused by inflammation of the penis head (balanitis)
- itchy, fiery red rash
- Balanitis is more prevalent if you are uncircumcised, overweight, or have a compromised immune system.
The treatment consists of antifungal ointments or lotions.
Infections transmitted sexually
An STI can cause penile discharge that is white, painful, and irritated. STIs are transmitted by unprotected penile, anal, and oral intercourse.
The following STIs are associated with white discharge:
Chlamydia.
This STI is characterised by penile discharge and urethritis.
Trichomoniasis.
Trichomoniasis can also produce itching and irritation, in addition to discharge. You may get a burning sensation after ejaculating or urinating.
Gonorrhea.
The colour of discharge can be white, green, or yellow. Additional gonorrhoea symptoms include painful urination and inflammation of the foreskin.
Antibiotics are the initial therapy option for STIs.
How much discharge is average?
Individuals have varying levels of discharge during and after sexual intercourse.
Consider your regular discharge when you don’t have oral, vaginal, or anal sex if you’re uncertain what to expect.
It is likely that you will have more than this amount during sexual contact.
Every day, people with a vagina produce approximately one teaspoon of clear to milky white discharge. In contrast, penis-bearing individuals do not have discharge until they are sexually aroused or ejaculating. The average amount of ejaculate is roughly one teaspoon.
Even so, proper discharge during sexual activity depends on a number of variables, such as:
- your menstrual period
- Sexual stimulation
- hormone alterations
- birth regulation
- your overall health
- sexually transmitted diseases
Sexual activity may exacerbate infection-related symptoms such as discharge and pain. It is best to receive treatment and refrain from oral, anal, and vaginal sex until the infection has cleared up.
When to see a physician
Consult a physician if your discharge has an unusual appearance or odour.
It is cause for concern when a white discharge has a yellow, green, or grey tint.
Additionally, you should seek medical care if you have:
- discomfort during sexual activity
- uncomfortable urination abdominal pain
- pelvic pain stinging rash blisters
If you do not exhibit any of these symptoms, your discharge is likely normal.
Conclusion – Why Does White Discharge Occur During and After Sexual Activity
Expect some white discharge during sexual activity. Typically, it is caused by sexual desire and does not involve pain.
A new white discharge after sexual activity may indicate an infection. STIs and bacterial vaginosis are common causes of vaginitis.
It is a good idea to observe the normal appearance of your discharge. Consult a physician if you notice a strange odour or colour, or if you are experiencing pain.