Getting wet: cervical fluid vs. arousal fluid vs. discharge

Arousal fluid is produced during arousal to act as a natural lubricant by:

• Vaginal transudation pushes liquid to the surface of vaginal walls.
• Bartholin's gland (situated near vaginal opening) produces liquid.

The production of arousal fluid can be affected by:

• Fluctuating levels of hormones throughout the menstrual cycle.
• Arousal
• Mental state
• Certain medications, such as birth control pills, etc.

Female ejaculation is still an unclear topic, but research claims that the small amount of milky fluid which can be produced during orgasm might be from Skene's glands, which are located near the urethra.

“Squirting” is different from female ejaculation and does not necessarily happen during orgasn. It is suspected to be a form of dilute urine expelled from the urethra during orgasm.

It’s normal to notice different types of vaginal fluid throughout your cycle.

However, abnormal discharge can be an indication of a problem, such as bacterial/fungal infection or STI.

Indicators of abnormal discharge:

• Color : Grayish, greenish, yellowish, brownish.
• Volume : Significant change in amount, often with other symptoms like itching.
• Consistency : Fluid becomes thinner, thicker and more textured than normal.
• Smell : Unpleasant, fishy, metallic.