The vagina truly is amazing; it’s an organ that has the capacity to clean itself to stay in tip top shape, and even alert you when something doesn’t seem to be right. 

But you might’ve noticed that it has another “superpower” that probably left you mystified at least once in your life: bleaching your underwear.

Many of you may have come across this peculiar situation whenever you wore dark underwear. If you’ve ever spotted discolored patches on your underwear and wondered if something was wrong, it’s actually a positive sign!

Why does it happen?

A healthy vagina is naturally acidic and can generate a lot of discharge. pH levels might change due to factors like hormones, sexual activity, and periods.

Wearing light-colored underwear might not show much, but with black or dark-colored undies, you’ll notice it all!

The vagina has good bacteria called lactobacilli, maintaining a healthy environment by controlling acidity and preventing infections. Discharge increases during ovulation and pregnancy; and when exposed to air, it can turn an underwear yellow or orange due to oxidation.

Keep in mind, the vagina naturally produces 4 mL of discharge daily as part of its self-cleaning process. If you notice an excessive amount, consult your Ob-Gyn.

How can you avoid it?

Now, we’re not saying this because it’s unhealthy to stain your panties. It’s more like you probably don’t want to mess up your pretty lingerie every now and then, just like us!

To steer clear of stains, you can use panty liners to keep the discharge from touching your panties.

Another trick is to rinse your underwear right after wearing it. If you leave it in your laundry basket, it might leave a stain due to oxidation. You can also soak your underwear for a few hours before washing it.

So, ladies, no need to worry because, as we mentioned, you all have a superpower!

Sources:

Cassano, L. (November 11, 2020). Can Your Vagina “Bleach” Your Underwear Daye. https://www.yourdaye.com/vitals/womens-health/can-discharge-bleach-underwear/#:~:text=Can%20vaginal%20discharge%20%E2%80%9Cbleach%E2%80%9D%20your,that%20your%20vagina%20is%20healthy!%E2%80%9D 

Sachdev, G. (December 19, 2023). Is your vaginal discharge bleaching underwear. Healthshots. https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/this-is-why-your-vaginal-discharge-is-discolouring-your-underwear/ 

Kelly, C. (January 19, 2023). Why your vagina leaves bleach stains in your underwear. Insider. https://www.insider.com/why-your-vagina-leaves-bleach-stains-in-your-underwear-2023-1