By Aunty Julie

Aunty Julie,

When I have sex, afterward it’s like the wet stuff from my vagina gathers or dries into tiny crumbs and smells funny. I don’t know what is the cause . My guy doesn’t say anything but it happens every time. It’s so weird and embarrassing. I figure it’s not dirt but it looks so strange.

Tina, Lagos

Dear Tina

I think what you’re describing is pretty normal. Vaginal secretions when they dry out can go a bit crumby, and may have a stronger smell after sex from the semen. If your vagina and vulva feel healthy, that is not sore or itchy, and the smell isn’t unpleasant, then it’s nothing to worry about. Vaginal discharge can change for different reasons – time of the month, use of different types of contraceptive, level of sexual arousal, use of different types of lubricant during sex.

Some infections can cause a vaginal discharge and it’s important at your age to get a check up from time to time. If you feel that the secretions are irritating your skin, or smell fishy, it may be an abnormal bacterial growth which can get treated. If you’re noticing the secretions getting lumpy during sex, it may be because your vagina is getting a bit dry and using a water based lubricant will help.