It's normal to see cloudy, white discharge a few days before your period, coinciding with the increased levels of progesterone in your body. During these days, your body is trying to prevent any sperm from swimming up your cervix. However, in other phases of your menstrual cycle, when your body has higher levels of estrogen, your vaginal discharge will tend to be clear and watery. After your period, on the other hand, you may experience some creamy pink discharge. This happens when the white discharge is tinged with leftover menstrual blood that has not been expelled during your period. White discharge before period can mean pregnancy. Get tested if you don't get your period when you are due and have only white discharge after having unprotected vaginal sex.

Keep the outer genital area clean and dry to prevent unhealthy bacteria from flourishing and to keep vaginal odors at bay. Consider using a panty liner when you have heavy discharge. Panty liners absorb excess moisture that may irritate. However, when shopping for a panty liner, choose one that is made from a material that does not block air circulation. Synthetics are a no-no. Also, though scented panty liners may seem tempting, bear in mind that they may have irritating chemicals. As a thumb rule, it's best to not let the skin in your vaginal area come in close, prolonged contact with perfumed products.

There are more than 50 types of microbes that thrive in your vagina, and help keep it clean and healthy. Many of these are a bunch of good samaritans called lactobacilli that constantly fight off harmful microbes. When there is an imbalance of lactobacilli, you will experience frequent itching, white discharge, and a gamey odor. Probiotic foods, such as yogurt, kimchi, pickles, and kombucha, can restore a healthy bacterial population and encourage the growth of favorable vaginal flora.