Yellow-Green Discharge?

Overview of Yellow-Green Discharge

Clear or white vaginal discharge is normal for women, but yellow-green discharge may indicate an infection “down there.” This could be a sign of a benign (yet very annoying) yeast infection or a sexually transmitted disease such as trichomoniasis.

Yellow-green discharge may be accompanied by other symptoms. For example, when abnormal vaginal discharge is a symptom of trichomoniasis, other symptoms include the following: An unusual odor, an itching or burning sensation, pain during sex, and discomfort during urination.

Promptly diagnosing and treating yellow or green discharge is crucial. When left untreated, trichomoniasis and other STDs can cause permanent reproductive damage. But don’t worry, provided these symptoms are diagnosed and treated early, yellow green discharge will be a thing of the past!

Causes of Yellow-Green Discharge

• Sexually transmitted diseases are transmitted through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
• Trichomoniasis
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Complications of STDs such as pelvic inflammatory disease or cervicitis
• Vaginal yeast infection
• Bacterial vaginosis or vaginitis

Diagnosing Yellow-Green Discharge

The first step towards diagnosing yellow or green discharge is STD testing. A test for trichomoniasis, chlamydia and gonorrhea is strongly recommended. STD testing is available at a local lab or even through an at-home STD testing kit for ultimate privacy and convenience. Results will return in a few short days.

If you STD test comes back negative (or you are not at risk for STDs), a yeast infection or bacterial infection may be to blame. A doctor can conduct further STD testing.

Treating Yellow-Green Discharge

Yellowish green discharge will subside upon treatment. If caused by trichomoniasis, the doctor will prescribe the medication metronidazole. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are each treated with different antibiotics.

Important:  Do not engage in any sexual activity until you have finished treatment. Any partners must test for trichomoniasis and other STDs to avoid passing infections back and forth.

When yellow-green discharge is caused by a vaginal yeast infection, over-the-counter or prescription medication can cure the infection. Bacterial vaginosis and vaginitis are treated with prescription medications.