There are different reasons for white discharge. It can be caused by:
• Normal reproductive system functioning: White discharge before your period is a normal part of the menstrual cycle. Normal discharge at the adolescent stage of the cycle is sometimes called 'egg white mucus'. As its name suggests it is because it is thin, stretchy and slippery in texture. This type of discharge is odorless.
• Birth control: Birth control medication changes your hormone levels; this can lead to increased discharge. It is a normal side-effect of hormonal birth control pills.
• Pregnancy: Discharge before getting your period can be an early sign of pregnancy. Discharge from pregnancy can be hard to tell apart from discharge that is just part of your monthly cycle; it is comparatively thicker and creamier than your monthly cycle discharge.
• Sexually transmitted infection (STI or STD): Chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomonas are the STIs that most likely cause discharge. If you have chlamydia or gonorrhea, the discharge will be yellowish and like pus. However, these STIs are often asymptomatic. Trichomonas more likely leads to yellowish or greenish, fishy-smelling discharge and itching.
• Yeast infection: Yeast infections are common and can occur with no known cause. However, using antibiotics can raise your risk of getting a yeast infection and it most likely appears right before you get your period. Discharge from a yeast infection is usually white and thick; it is often described as looking like cottage cheese. Yeast infections may also cause burning and itching in your vagina and vulva.
• Bacterial vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis is an infection that occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina changes. The cause is unknown, but it’s been linked to douching, smoking and having multiple sexual partners. Discharge from bacterial vaginosis has a fishy smell and a grayish-white color.