Menopause marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles and fertility. The weeks and months leading up to your final period are known as perimenopause. During this transition, fluctuating estrogen levels can cause vaginal and uterine lining changes that result in mucus discharge.
While not generally a cause for concern, paying attention to symptoms provides insights into your health. Monitoring discharge color, consistency, smell and quantity will help determine if a doctor's input is needed.
Common Causes of Discharge After Menopause
- Hormone fluctuations - Declining estrogen causes thinning vaginal tissues. This can lead to increased discharge mixed with dead skin cells and bacteria. Most is clear, white or pale yellow.
- Infection - Insufficient estrogen also raises infection risks from yeast and bacteria. Potential culprits are gonorrhea, chlamydia, bacterial vaginosis (BV) and trichomoniasis (“trich”). Yellow, green or grey discharge with a foul odor indicates infection.
- Vaginal atrophy - Low estrogen dries out vaginal tissues, shrinking the area’s flexibility. Extra vaginal cells can then accumulate and exit as discharge.
- Cervical cancer screenings - An annual Pap test checks for precancerous cell changes on the cervix. The related exam and cervical scraping often increases bloody or brown-tinged discharge afterwards.
When to See Your Healthcare Provider
Consult your gynecologist, primary care physician or visit
Balanced Hormone Clinic if you experience:
- Changes in discharge color, smell, quantity or texture
- An abnormal Pap test result
- Bleeding between periods or after intercourse, douching or a pelvic exam
- Pelvic pain or painful urination
- Sores, bumps, skin changes or swelling around genital region
- Unexplained weight loss or lack of appetite
- Finding your symptoms troublesome physically or emotionally
Managing Mucus Discharge
Home remedies provide relief while monitoring symptoms:
- Stay hydrated and limit irritants like caffeine, alcohol and spicy cuisine
- Use gentle, hypoallergenic soaps and toilet paper
- Wear cotton underwear and avoid overly tight clothes
- Apply topical estrogen creams as directed by your healthcare provider
- Maintain proper blood sugar levels if diabetic
- Engage in stress-reduction techniques like yoga and mindfulness
When to Get Checked
As ovarian function and estrogen production declines in midlife, pay attention to your vaginal health.
Track discharge and related symptoms. Report any bothersome or abnormal changes to your doctor promptly for proper examination and treatment.
