The human body works like a powerful machine. And for everything to function as expected, every gear is important so that everything happens perfectly in sync. With some changes in its functions, certain signs may occur, indicating that something is out of the ordinary. This is the case with yellow discharge. Not every instance of yellow discharge means a woman is facing a health problem or even an infection1. To reach this conclusion, the yellow discharge must come with other symptoms, which should be carefully analyzed.

What can yellow discharge indicate?

Yellow discharge or yellow mucus is not always a sign that a problem is occurring. In some cases, it can simply be a sign that ovulation is about to happen. It can also be a physiological alteration of vaginal pH or even some hormonal imbalance. This is the case if the yellow discharge is not accompanied by symptoms such as intense itching in the vagina, strong odor, or discomfort during sexual intercourse and urination. These are signs of a possible infection. Usually, the presence of yellow discharge along with the symptoms described above indicates bacterial vaginosis2, which is a bacterial infection, or trichomoniasis, which is an infection caused by a protozoan.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis occurs due to an overgrowth of bacteria in the vaginal canal. This bacterial overgrowth alters the function of the vaginal flora and reduces the amount of local lactobacilli, allowing bacteria to proliferate rapidly. This proliferation causes characteristic symptoms such as yellow discharge with a very strong odor. Even though it causes rather uncomfortable signs, it is easy to control, requiring fast and effective treatment. Bacterial vaginosis is not considered an STI and is very common due to its ease of proliferation. Prevention methods include always having protected sex, avoiding vaginal douching, and limiting the number of sexual partners.

Risks of bacterial vaginosis

Although it is a relatively common and easily treated problem, treating bacterial vaginosis can pose some risks to a woman’s health if not done correctly. It’s not very common to have complications, but if not properly treated, a bacterial infestation can occur in the uterus and fallopian tubes. This can lead to PID (pelvic inflammatory disease).

Treatment for bacterial vaginosis

Treatment for bacterial vaginosis, and to end the yellow discharge for good, is done with antibiotics and some specific care. The gynecologist may recommend an oral medication or a cream. Treatment lasts 7 days and should not be interrupted to ensure proper healing. During treatment, it is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse or to use protection.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is an infection in the vaginal canal caused by a protozoan called trichomonas vaginalis3. Even though it is a vaginal infection, the protozoan can remain in the male urinary tract for long periods without showing symptoms. Because of this, it can be transmitted during sexual intercourse.

IMPORTANT: Trichomoniasis can occur along with other STIs, such as gonorrhea.

Transmission happens from one infected person to another during sexual intercourse. In women, the affected areas are: vagina, vulva, cervix, and urethra. In men, the affected area is the inside of the penis, in the urethra. Trichomoniasis shows very characteristic symptoms in both men and women. They include yellow discharge with a strong odor, vaginal itching, redness in the affected area, and discomfort when urinating or during sex.

Risks of trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is curable if treatment is done properly. But if untreated, it can pose serious health risks to women, including irreversible damage. The inflammation caused by the protozoan increases the chances of a woman contracting HIV if exposed.

Treatment for trichomoniasis

Treatment for trichomoniasis is based on antibiotics, which can be oral or in the form of creams and vaginal ointments. However, the most effective is oral treatment, as it offers faster results. Treatment should be done not only for the infected person but also for their sexual partner. To be safe, during the 7-day treatment period, sexual intercourse should be avoided or only with protection, using a condom. The best way to prevent trichomoniasis is to avoid having multiple sexual partners, always use a condom, and whenever you notice any unusual signs, practice sexual abstinence and see a doctor for evaluation.

Diagnosis of yellow discharge

When yellow discharge is detected, especially if accompanied by other symptoms of a possible infection, the gynecologist should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment. The diagnosis will be made through visual analysis, and other factors will be evaluated, such as the appearance of the vagina and vulva. If the gynecologist has any doubts, they may collect a small sample of the yellow discharge and send it for laboratory analysis. ​

Treatment for yellow discharge

Treatment of yellow discharge depends on the doctor’s diagnosis, since this characteristic is common to more than one cause. Each cause will have a different treatment. In general, treatment for yellow discharge is based on antibiotics or medication in the form of a cream, gel, ointment, or even vaginal tablets. Usually, treatment is recommended not only for the woman with the discharge but also for her sexual partner. This is especially important if the presence of other STIs is confirmed. During treatment, some measures are necessary to minimize discomfort and ensure treatment effectiveness, such as:

  • Use neutral soap for intimate hygiene;
  • Avoid sexual intercourse;
  • Do not use tampons;
  • Take a sitz bath with warm water to relieve burning and itching.

How to prevent yellow discharge?

Some health measures and especially intimate hygiene are essential to ensure vaginal health. Good eating habits guarantee balanced health and a stronger body to fight off infectious bacteria. Do not overuse alcohol and tobacco, avoid wearing very tight clothing, and try not to use public restrooms. If you have to use them, make sure not to have contact with the seat. At bedtime, try sleeping without underwear or choose cotton ones, which allow the vagina to “breathe.” ALWAYS use condoms, do not douche, and avoid using deodorants and perfumes on the vaginal area. And most importantly: visit your gynecologist regularly and whenever you notice anything unusual in your body. Have a Pap smear annually or whenever requested by your gynecologist. Having some simple habits and living a balanced life will ensure you have a healthy body, free from such uncomfortable and dangerous diseases. At the slightest sign of change in your body, see your doctor immediately for evaluation. Check also: Bacterial Vaginosis – What it is, Causes, and Treatments Photo: OpenClipart-Vectors