The vagina is a very clean part of a girl’s body. Each day, the vagina produces some discharge that helps cleanse it by flushing out any harmful dirt or bacteria. In a way, the vagina sort of washes itself out.

Every girl has her own scent and vaginal discharge, which she might notice on her underwear or on toilet paper. On some days, the discharge is white and pasty. On the days of the month when a girl is ovulating, it will be clear and stringy, kind of like egg white. And on a few days each month, there won’t be any discharge at all.

It’s real important to know your “normal” vaginal scent, so you can tell if something is different. If you notice your vaginal odor getting stronger or “fishy,” your discharge is greenish or grayish or you feel itching or soreness, you might have a yeast infection, bacterial infection or other type of problem. See your health care provider. You can find a clinic near you here.