It’s normal for women to experience vaginal discharge, or fluid secretions from the glands of the cervix. And though vaginal discharge often changes throughout a person’s menstrual cycle, some changes may indicate a health problem. Show
For example, yellow malodorous vaginal discharge can be a sign of a bacterial infection or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). If you’re concerned about your vaginal discharge, contact your healthcare provider. In the meantime, read on to learn about yellow vaginal discharge. I’ll start with the causes and explain what normal vaginal discharge is like. Then I’ll share how to prevent yellow discharge and when to see a doctor. Yellow Vaginal Discharge CausesVaginal discharge can have textures and colors. Yellow or green vaginal discharge most commonly occurs with infections, including sexually transmitted infections. Vaginal discharge accompanied by other symptoms may help you or your healthcare provider determine your current diagnosis. Common causes of yellow discharge
More serious concernsBacterial infections, including STIs, are often treatable. However, they can result in serious complications, so seek prompt medical treatment if you think you may have an infection. For example, infections that cause yellow discharge can increase your risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. Left untreated, PID can lead to fertility complications, and in some cases may be life threatening requiring hospitalization and IV antibiotics. If you’re pregnant, if left untreated, bacterial vaginosis or STIs can result in pregnancy complications such as preterm labor. What Is Normal Discharge Like?Vaginal discharge can change consistency throughout the menstrual cycle. Typically, healthy vaginal discharge is clear or white. Close to your period, discharge may have a pink or reddish hue. Normal discharge that appears in your underwear and is exposed to air can also turn yellow, which isn’t necessarily cause for concern. Darker yellow or greenish vaginal discharge, on the other hand, is more likely a sign of an infection that should be addressed by a medical provider. Different Possible Colors and Their MeaningsCertain times or conditions can cause different colored vaginal discharge. Below are some of the most common colors of vaginal discharge and what they may mean.
How to Prevent Yellow DischargeTo prevent sexually transmitted infections associated with yellow vaginal discharge, always use condoms when you have sex of any kind, especially with a new partner. Latex or polyurethane condoms can reduce the risk of infection but not completely prevent it. If possible, limit your number of sex partners to reduce your risk of sexually transmitted infection. Regular STI screening can also help prevent the risk of more serious medical problems. It may not be possible to completely prevent bacterial vaginosis as this is the overgrowth of your natural vaginal flora that sometimes causes symptoms. Some people experience it due to a natural lack of healthy bacteria in their vagina. Douching is associated with a higher risk of bacterial vaginosis, so avoid using scented wipes, washes or products in the vaginal area. When to See a DoctorSee a healthcare provider anytime you’re concerned about the color or texture of your vaginal discharge, particularly if you are pregnant or suspect a vaginal or sexually transmitted infection. Also contact your doctor if you have an infection or suspect an infection and experience:
These could indicate a worsening or spreading infection, which requires immediate medical treatment. Infections that cause yellow vaginal discharge are usually bacterial, so they may be treated with antibiotics. Your doctor can determine the best course of treatment for you, depending on your medical history, symptoms, and diagnosis. How K Health Can HelpDid you know you can get affordable primary care with the K Health app? Download K to check your symptoms, explore conditions and treatments, and if needed text with a doctor in minutes. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat does it mean when you have a yellowish discharge? Yellow discharge is commonly associated with a vaginal infection called bacterial vaginosis. Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, can also cause yellow or green discharge. If you’re concerned about a change in your vaginal discharge, see a medical provider. Is a light yellow discharge normal? Vaginal discharge varies from person to person, and not all changes indicate a medical problem. Clear, white, or even light yellow discharge can be healthy and normal. If you have yellow, green, or gray discharge, consult a healthcare provider. It’s possible you have an infection or another health condition that should be treated. K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Does yellow discharge indicate STD?Yellow discharge may or may not indicate an infection. If the discharge is a pale yellow, odorless, and not accompanied by other symptoms, it may not be a cause for concern. In other instances, yellow discharge can be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a bacterial infection.
What does STD yellow discharge look like?Trichomoniasis and vaginal discharges
If you've recently been infected with trichomoniasis, then your discharge might be yellow-greenish in color—or, perhaps, just yellow. Your discharge could be frothy—or filled with tiny bubbles—and may have a distinct odor as well (which is often described as “fishy”).
What STD makes you have a lot of discharge?Infections such as trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, and Chlamydia (all STDs); and yeast infection can all cause vaginal discharge. Vaginal discharge can be associated with other symptoms such as burning or itching.
Is chlamydia discharge always yellow?Most times, an infected person's vaginal or penile discharge may be yellow in color. They can sometimes have a foul-smelling odor. Chlamydia discharge color can also be gray or whitish. This symptom is usually followed by pain and a burning sensation in the genital area during urination.
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