About six months to a year before a girl starts menstruating, her body may begin producing a vaginal discharge. This discharge is caused by fluctuating hormones and is the way the vagina keeps itself healthy. After you get your period, the discharge will continue and may vary in texture depending on the time of the month. However, if you are experiencing painful itchiness and a thick, white vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese and smells a bit fishy, then it sounds like you could have a yeast infection. Yes, it sounds icky, but actually yeast infections are very common and totally treatable. These infections are caused by an overproduction of the yeast that's naturally found in the vagina. A ton of things can lead to this overproduction, from taking antibiotics to being on the Pill, but the most likely culprits are tight pants and synthetic undies. They trap heat and moisture close to your vagina, which leads to the infection. As tempting as it may be to throw on your favorite pair of super-skinny jeans every day, your body needs a break — mix it up with a miniskirt or two. And stick to cotton panties, ladies! If you're not willing to purge your underwear drawer completely, at least make sure to switch to cotton when you're working out, which is when you're most likely to get hot and sweaty down there.

Now here's the bad news: You have to go to your doctor to know for sure. You don't mention if you're sexually active, but if you are, there's always a chance that you've got something a little more serious going on. Either way, it's vital that you get yourself checked out. There's no need to be scared of your doctor, but if for some reason you are, then find a new one. Talk to your mom about going to see someone you're more comfortable with. If the problem is that you're terrified your doctor will tell your parents something you'd rather they not know, call your local Planned Parenthood — they can help hook you up with a doctor without getting your mom and dad involved.