As menstruation approaches, many premenstrual symptoms may arise, such as mild lower abdominal discomfort. Does vaginal discharge increase before menstruation? Yes, many women experience increased discharge before their period. This occurs due to estrogen influence and is a normal physiological phenomenon.
After puberty, stimulated by ovarian hormones, vaginal epithelial cells contain abundant starch. Under the action of vaginal lactobacilli, this starch is broken down into lactic acid, maintaining the vagina's acidic environment and preventing the growth of pathogenic bacteria.Before menstruation, pelvic congestion increases blood flow to the cervix and vagina, leading to heavier discharge than usual. As menstruation approaches, the discharge may appear pinkish, gradually turning bloody—this is menstrual flow.
Around mid-cycle when ovulation approaches, cervical glands secrete more mucus, resulting in increased, clear, slightly sticky discharge resembling egg whites.Two to three days after ovulation, vaginal discharge becomes cloudy, thick, sticky, and scant. Around menstruation, pelvic congestion and increased vaginal mucosal secretions often lead to heavier discharge.This occurs because estrogen levels are higher during ovulation. Around menstruation, pelvic congestion and estrogen influence increase vaginal secretions and cervical mucus. These factors collectively lead to increased discharge. During menstruation, the cervical opening gradually dilates, and the columnar epithelial cells within the cervical canal become more active in secretion. The increased mucus mixes with vaginal secretions and flows out.
After menstruation ends, blood flow to the uterus and vagina returns to normal levels, and vaginal discharge decreases. Additionally, some individuals experience increased discharge during periods of fatigue or ovulation, which is also considered normal. However, if discharge turns yellow, becomes pus-like, emits an odor, or is accompanied by vulvar itching, this indicates an abnormality requiring medical examination and treatment.