Vaginal “smegma?”

Question:

"Is it normal for women to have "smegma" of sorts on their clitoris or the lips sometimes as a form of discharge? or does that mean yeast infection or unbalanced pH?"

Answer:

You made me laugh using the term “vaginal smegma” so good on you! Yes, it is normal for discharge to be visible on the external genitalia. Women secrete 1-4 ml of discharge over 24 hours, and some of that may be sticky and adhere to the genital area. Your vagina is expert at regulating its own pH, so if there is no infection, you don’t need to worry about pH. As long as there isn’t a bad odor, that alone is not an indication of infection. Symptoms of infection include odor, increasing discharge, burning, itching, redness, and pain with sex or urination. A yeast infection presents typically as “cottage cheese-like” discharge, and may include swelling, redness, itching, burning or pan. The best way to know if you have an infection is a visit to the GYN.

DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended to guide individual therapy. Answers should never substitute for consultation with a healthcare provider or counselor who can make decisions based on an individual’s history, desires, and circumstances. Always seek the advice of a clinician for any questions regarding health, medical condition, birth control method or other family planning or social issues. Under no circumstances should an individual use this information in lieu of, or to override, the judgment of a treating clinician. Dr. Zieman, or SageMed LLC, is not responsible, or liable, for errors, omissions, or any damage or loss incurred as a result of use of any birth control method or use or reliance on any material or information provided through this website.