White Discharge After IUI: What Is It, and When Should You Worry?

Have you noticed white discharge in your underwear following an intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure? It might leave you feeling anxious and wondering whether it’s normal, a sign of successful implantation, or even an infection. 

However, before uncertainty takes over, let’s demystify what white discharge after IUI means and when you should seek medical advice.

What is white discharge after IUI?

Most women think that the white discharge is actually the inseminated sperm spilling out from their vagina, but don't let having a white vaginal discharge scare you.

Having vaginal discharge after the insemination process can make you worry if the IUI cycle was a success or failure. However, white vaginal discharge after this phase of fertility treatment is actually a common occurrence.

This discharge can have multiple sources and may differ in texture and quantity. For example, white vaginal discharge might just be your natural cervical mucus or the residual fluids that are expelled after the IUI procedure.

You will only need to worry about vaginal discharge if the discharge is yellow or green in colour with a foul smell.

What causes white discharge after IUI?

Several factors may contribute to white discharge following IUI:

• Residual fluids from the procedure:

  • During IUI, the concentrated sperm will be mixed in a solution when it is being injected into your womb.

  • Some of this mixture, along with naturally occurring cervical mucus, may leak out after the procedure, often appearing as a white vaginal discharge.

• Cervical mucus changes:

  • Your vagina regularly produces cervical mucus throughout your menstrual cycle. The colour and consistency of the mucus change depending on your hormone levels.

  • After IUI, the hormonal changes after the insemination procedure can also cause cervical mucus to be released from your vagina, which can appear like a white discharge.

• Hormonal fluctuations:

  • The surge in oestrogen and progesterone hormones after ovulation, or from fertility drugs, stimulates the mucus glands and changes both the volume and appearance of your vaginal discharge, occasionally making it look creamy and white.

• Vaginal secretions:

  • Your vagina naturally secretes fluids that maintain its pH level to keep itself healthy and defend against infections.

  • The amount and appearance of these secretions can vary depending on your menstrual cycle, stress level, and other factors.

  • After IUI, it's common for vaginal fluids to mix with cervical mucus, which may cause the discharge to appear slightly whitish in colour.

• Irritation or inflammation:

  • IUI is a minimally invasive procedure, but it is possible to get irritated or inflamed due to the IUI catheter and the introduction of sperm. Thus, causing your vagina to release excess cervical mucus.

  • These are usually short-lived and not a cause for concern unless they’re associated with symptoms like pain or an unpleasant odour.

Is white discharge after IUI normal?

Having vaginal discharge is normal after the insemination process. However, there are also instances when vaginal discharge may indicate an infection or other complications.

You should be able to differentiate and identify normal and abnormal vaginal discharge to get medical attention and treat the issue.

Normal vaginal discharge

Most women experience some degree of vaginal discharge throughout their cycle, which may increase or change in texture after procedures like IUI.

A normal vaginal discharge is either a colourless, light yellow, or whitish substance that has a thin or creamy consistency. The discharge is usually odourless, or it only has a slight odour.

This discharge is usually the cervical mucus that is released due to hormone changes. It might also be the residual fluid of the IUI procedure.

Abnormal vaginal discharge

An abnormal vaginal discharge happens when you contract infections or have complications in your reproductive system. The discharge will appear green, yellow-green, or grey in colour with a thick or cottage cheese-like consistency.

It will also have a strong odour. You might also feel a burning sensation in your vagina or vulva. This condition is serious, and you should immediately consult your doctor and get treatment for it.

If you’re experiencing abnormal vaginal discharge, please consult a fertility specialist. Our fertility specialists can help by providing a consultation to discuss your treatment options and offer personalised care tailored to your needs. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical.

When should you consult a doctor?

Having white discharge after IUI is a normal occurrence, and usually, there is no need to worry. They are a natural phenomenon that will reduce after a few days.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Discharge accompanied by a strong or unpleasant odour

• Itching, burning, or soreness sensation in the vagina

• You feel feverish or experience pelvic pain

• You experience yellow, green, or bloody discharge

If you’re unsure about your symptoms or if they worsen, it is best to reach out and consult your fertility clinic or a general practitioner.

FAQ

What can cause white discharge after IUI?

White discharge after IUI is often a normal occurrence and can be attributed to several factors, including hormonal changes and vaginal irritation from the procedure.

Am I pregnant if I have thick white discharge?

Thick white discharge can be influenced by hormonal changes in early pregnancy, but it is not, on its own, a reliable sign of pregnancy.

How long does the white discharge typically last?

White discharge may last for a few days after the procedure or persist intermittently throughout the two-week wait. If it continues longer or changes in appearance, consult your healthcare provider.

Is 6 days after IUI white discharge normal?

Yes, experiencing white discharge six days post-IUI is common and generally not a cause for concern unless accompanied by abnormal symptoms.

Is white discharge after 13 days of IUI a cause for concern?

If the discharge remains white and odourless without irritation, it is still usually normal. Significant changes in colour, smell, or associated symptoms should be discussed with your doctor.

What are the symptoms of a successful IUI?

Symptoms after a successful IUI may include mild cramping, light spotting, breast tenderness, fatigue, increased vaginal discharge, or no symptoms at all. These can also occur for reasons unrelated to pregnancy.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice based on your unique situations, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.