Vaginal Greenish Discharge?

Overview of Vaginal Greenish Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a normal, everyday occurrence, but irregularities, such as greenish vaginal discharge, may signal a problem. Abnormal vaginal discharge can range from greenish, yellowish, or grayish. In addition to greenish vaginal discharge, many women also experience itching, odor, or pain when experiencing a genital infection.

While these symptoms are irritating and somewhat embarrassing, many times the cause is harmless. Other times, these unwarranted symptoms are caused by pesky sexually transmitted disease (STDs), particularly gonorrhea, which can cause lasting damage.

Possible Causes of Vaginal Greenish Discharge

The following are a variety of conditions can cause greenish vaginal discharge.

• Sexually transmitted diseases
  • Gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia
  • Trichomoniasis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease, a complication of gonorrhea and other STDs
• Yeast infection
• Bacterial vaginosis or vaginitis

Diagnosing Vaginal Greenish Discharge

Greenish vaginal discharge is a common gonorrhea symptom, so STD testing should take place first in the diagnostic process. In addition to gonorrhea testing, Chlamydia and trichomoniasis testing should also be performed since those STDs can produce similar symptoms.

STD testing for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis are available at thousands of local labs and even in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Results of STD and gonorrhea tests will return in few short days providing a quick and accurate diagnosis.

If STD and gonorrhea testing is negative or you are not at risk for STDs, a yeast infection or bacterial infection may be causing symptoms. A doctor may be able to provide additional testing.

Treating Vaginal Greenish Discharge

When greenish vaginal discharge is a symptom of STDs, treatment will vary based on the disease. For example, gonorrhea is usually treated with the antibiotic doxycycline. Be sure to avoid any sexual contact until treatment is fully completed. Also, any partners should be tested and treated for gonorrhea before engaging in sex again.

Yeast infections can be cured with over-the-counter or prescription medication, while a bacterial infection requires antibiotics from a doctor. Regardless the diagnosis, if greenish vaginal discharge and other abnormal symptoms do not subside after a full course of medication, you should see your doctor for additional treatment.