Published on: 3/17/2025
White clumpy vaginal discharge is often a sign of a yeast infection, which happens when the balance of germs in the vagina changes.
Many people notice a thick, white, clumpy discharge that looks a bit like cottage cheese when they have a yeast infection, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis. This kind of discharge comes from an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida. In a healthy vagina, good bacteria keep everything balanced, but sometimes things can change. When the fungus grows too much, it creates a thick, clumpy discharge. Often, this discharge does not have a strong odor, which is common with yeast infections. Besides the clumpy discharge, you might also feel itching, burning, or soreness in the vaginal area. It is important to remember that while this is a common reason for white clumpy discharge, other conditions can cause changes as well. If you experience discomfort or other troubling symptoms, it is a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, confirm if it is a yeast infection, and decide on the best treatment to help restore balance and keep you feeling comfortable.
(References)
InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Overview: Vaginal yeast infection (thrush) [Updated 2022 Apr 4]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK543220/
John N, Rahima S, Raji TK, Santhosh P, Kidangazhiathmana A, Sukumarakurup S. Clinicoetiological study on vaginal discharge among sexually active women attending a tertiary center in North Kerala, India. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2023 Jan-Jun;44(1):1-5. doi: 10.4103/ijstd.ijstd_65_21. Epub 2022 Dec 9. PMID: 37457531; PMCID: PMC10343118.
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