How does discharge have to do with a period?

Okay so discharge is actually a super normal thing your body does all the time, and it totally changes as you get closer to your period and through your cycle. It's like your body's way of cleaning itself and protecting your vagina from germs. Cool right?

Before your first period even shows up, you'll probably notice discharge. For most girls, white or clear discharge starts about six months to a year before their first period. So it's basically like your body giving you a heads-up that things are getting ready! It's one of those "puberty is happening" things.

What it looks like

Discharge can look different throughout your cycle and that's totally normal. It might be:

• Clear and stretchy, kinda like egg whites, especially around ovulation (when your body releases an egg).
• White or cloudy and a bit sticky or pasty before your period starts.
• Slightly yellowish after it dries on your underwear.

If your discharge changes suddenly, like it becomes really itchy, has a strong smell, or is a weird color like green or grey, that's a good time to tell a trusted grown-up so they can help you figure out what's going on.