What are the main causes of yellow-green odorless vaginal discharge. How can you identify and treat this condition. When should you seek medical attention for abnormal discharge.

Understanding Yellow-Green Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a normal bodily function that helps cleanse and protect the vagina. However, when the discharge becomes yellow-green in color, it often indicates an underlying health issue. While many women may experience this symptom without any odor, it’s crucial to understand its potential causes and implications.

Yellow-green discharge, especially when odorless, can be concerning and confusing. Is it a sign of a serious condition? Should you seek immediate medical attention? Let’s delve into the top causes and what they mean for your health.

Top 3 Causes of Yellow-Green Odorless Discharge

1. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, often referred to as “trich,” is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite. It’s known to cause a yellow-green discharge, which may or may not have an odor.

• Affects over 2 million people annually in the U.S.
• Only about 30% of infected individuals show symptoms
• Can cause vaginal itching, burning, and discomfort

Can trichomoniasis be asymptomatic? Yes, in fact, most women with trichomoniasis don’t experience any symptoms. Many only discover they have the infection during routine gynecological exams or Pap smears.

2. Yeast Infection

While yeast infections typically produce a thick, white discharge, in some cases, they can cause a yellow or green-tinged discharge. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans.

• Often causes intense itching and discomfort
• May lead to swelling of the external genitalia
• Can result in a burning sensation during urination or intercourse

Does a yeast infection always have a distinct odor? Not necessarily. While some yeast infections may produce a mild, bread-like smell, many are odorless, especially in the early stages.

3. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there’s an imbalance in the natural bacteria in the vagina. While it typically causes a grayish-white discharge with a fishy odor, some women may experience a yellow-green discharge without a noticeable smell.

• Most common vaginal condition in women ages 15-44
• Can increase susceptibility to other STIs
• May cause itching, burning, or discomfort

Is bacterial vaginosis always symptomatic? No, many women with BV don’t experience any symptoms, which is why regular gynecological check-ups are essential.

Identifying Yellow-Green Odorless Discharge

Recognizing yellow-green discharge is relatively straightforward, but determining its cause can be challenging without professional medical assessment. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Consistency: Is the discharge thick and clumpy or thin and watery?
2. Associated symptoms: Are you experiencing itching, burning, or pain?
3. Duration: How long have you noticed this unusual discharge?
4. Recent activities: Have you had unprotected sexual intercourse or changed hygiene products recently?

Should you always be concerned about yellow-green discharge? While it’s not typical of healthy vaginal discharge, it doesn’t always indicate a serious condition. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While not all cases of yellow-green odorless discharge require immediate medical attention, certain situations warrant prompt consultation with a healthcare provider:

• Persistent discharge lasting more than a week
• Accompanying symptoms like fever, pelvic pain, or unusual bleeding
• Recent unprotected sexual activity with a new or untested partner
• Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
• Recurrent episodes of abnormal discharge

Is it necessary to see a doctor if the discharge resolves on its own? While it may be tempting to ignore a resolved issue, it’s still advisable to mention it at your next check-up, as it could indicate an underlying condition that may recur.

Diagnosis and Testing

Accurate diagnosis of the cause behind yellow-green odorless discharge typically involves a combination of physical examination and laboratory tests. Here’s what you might expect during a diagnostic process:

1. Medical history review
2. Physical examination, including a pelvic exam
3. Vaginal pH testing
4. Microscopic examination of discharge samples
5. Cultures or PCR tests for specific pathogens

Are at-home testing kits reliable for diagnosing the cause of abnormal discharge? While some over-the-counter tests can detect certain conditions like yeast infections, they’re not as comprehensive or accurate as professional medical diagnostics. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

Treatment Options for Yellow-Green Odorless Discharge

Treatment for yellow-green odorless discharge depends on its underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

For Trichomoniasis:

• Oral antibiotic medication, typically metronidazole or tinidazole
• Treatment of sexual partners to prevent reinfection
• Follow-up testing to ensure the infection has cleared

For Yeast Infections:

• Over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories
• Prescription oral antifungal medication for severe cases
• Probiotics to help restore vaginal flora balance

For Bacterial Vaginosis:

• Prescription antibiotics, such as metronidazole or clindamycin
• Vaginal pH-balancing gels or suppositories
• Lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence

Can yellow-green discharge be treated with home remedies? While some natural remedies may provide temporary relief from symptoms, they’re not typically effective in treating the underlying cause. It’s crucial to obtain a proper diagnosis and follow prescribed treatments for optimal health outcomes.

Prevention and Maintaining Vaginal Health

Preventing yellow-green odorless discharge often involves maintaining good vaginal health and hygiene practices. Here are some tips to help reduce your risk of developing abnormal discharge:

• Practice safe sex and use condoms consistently
• Avoid douching, which can disrupt the natural vaginal flora
• Wear breathable, cotton underwear
• Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom
• Avoid scented feminine hygiene products
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
• Manage stress levels through relaxation techniques or exercise

How often should you have gynecological check-ups to maintain optimal vaginal health? For most women, an annual check-up is sufficient. However, if you have a history of recurrent infections or other gynecological issues, your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent visits.

The Impact of Yellow-Green Discharge on Sexual Health

Experiencing yellow-green odorless discharge can have significant implications for your sexual health and overall well-being. Here’s how it might affect you:

• Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse
• Increased risk of transmitting infections to sexual partners
• Potential fertility issues if left untreated
• Psychological stress and impact on intimate relationships
• Increased susceptibility to other STIs

Should you abstain from sexual activity when experiencing abnormal discharge? Yes, it’s advisable to avoid sexual intercourse until you’ve been properly diagnosed and treated. This helps prevent potential transmission of infections and allows your body to heal.

Myths and Misconceptions About Vaginal Discharge

There are many myths surrounding vaginal discharge, particularly when it comes to unusual colors or consistencies. Let’s debunk some common misconceptions:

1. Myth: All abnormal discharge indicates an STI.
   Reality: While some STIs can cause unusual discharge, many non-sexually transmitted conditions can as well.
2. Myth: You can diagnose the cause of discharge by its color alone.
   Reality: While color can provide clues, proper diagnosis requires professional medical assessment.
3. Myth: Douching can help clear up abnormal discharge.
   Reality: Douching can actually worsen the problem by disrupting the vagina’s natural balance.
4. Myth: Yellow-green discharge always has a strong odor.
   Reality: As we’ve discussed, it’s possible to have yellow-green discharge without any noticeable smell.
5. Myth: Over-the-counter treatments are always sufficient.
   Reality: While some conditions can be treated with OTC products, many require prescription medications.

Do natural remedies effectively treat yellow-green discharge? While some natural remedies may provide symptomatic relief, they typically don’t address the underlying cause of abnormal discharge. It’s important to seek professional medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Vaginal Health

Your diet and lifestyle choices can significantly impact your vaginal health and potentially influence the occurrence of abnormal discharge. Consider the following factors:

Diet:

• Probiotics: Foods rich in beneficial bacteria, like yogurt, can help maintain a healthy vaginal flora.
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water supports overall body function, including vaginal health.
• Balanced nutrition: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can boost your immune system.

Lifestyle:

• Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve circulation and boost immune function.
• Stress management: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.
• Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system.
• Hygiene practices: Avoid harsh soaps and excessive washing of the vaginal area.

Can certain foods trigger or worsen abnormal discharge? While there’s no direct evidence linking specific foods to abnormal discharge, some women report that consuming excessive sugar or alcohol may exacerbate symptoms of yeast infections. It’s best to maintain a balanced diet and pay attention to how your body responds to different foods.

Understanding the Vaginal Microbiome

The vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health and preventing abnormal discharge. This complex ecosystem of microorganisms helps protect against infections and maintain a healthy pH balance. Here’s what you need to know:

• Dominant bacteria: Lactobacillus species typically dominate a healthy vaginal microbiome.
• pH balance: A healthy vagina usually has a pH between 3.8 and 4.5.
• Hormonal influences: The vaginal microbiome can change throughout the menstrual cycle and during different life stages.
• Disrupting factors: Antibiotics, douching, and certain sexual practices can disrupt the microbiome.

How can you support a healthy vaginal microbiome? Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, using condoms during sexual activity, and considering probiotic supplements can all contribute to a balanced vaginal microbiome.

The Psychological Impact of Recurring Vaginal Issues

Experiencing recurrent episodes of yellow-green odorless discharge or other vaginal health issues can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. It’s important to address these psychological aspects:

• Anxiety and stress about potential health implications
• Impact on self-esteem and body image
• Strain on intimate relationships
• Frustration with recurring symptoms despite treatment
• Embarrassment or reluctance to discuss symptoms with healthcare providers

How can you cope with the emotional impact of recurring vaginal health issues? Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor, joining support groups, practicing self-care, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider and partner. Remember, vaginal health issues are common and nothing to be ashamed of.

Future Developments in Vaginal Health Research

The field of vaginal health is continuously evolving, with new research and developments emerging regularly. Here are some areas of ongoing study that may impact how we understand and treat conditions causing yellow-green odorless discharge:

• Microbiome research: Further understanding of the vaginal microbiome may lead to new preventive and treatment strategies.
• Personalized medicine: Tailoring treatments based on individual microbiome profiles and genetic factors.
• Novel diagnostic tools: Development of more accurate and rapid testing methods for various vaginal conditions.
• Alternative treatments: Exploration of probiotics, bacteriophages, and other non-antibiotic approaches to treating vaginal infections.
• Vaccine development: Ongoing research into vaccines for common STIs that can cause abnormal discharge.

What promising developments are on the horizon for treating recurrent vaginal infections? While research is ongoing, some exciting areas include the use of engineered probiotics to combat specific pathogens and the development of targeted antimicrobial peptides. However, it’s important to note that these approaches are still in the experimental stages and may take years to become available for clinical use.

Top 3 Causes of Green Vaginal Discharge

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Vaginal discharge is normal, but if it’s green, that’s a sign of an infection, such as an STD.

Written by

Jessica B. White-Videa, DO, FACOG.

Ivonne Reynolds DO, LLC

Last updated May 25, 2023

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Most common questions

What does green vaginal discharge mean?

Causes

Next steps

Treatment

Prevention

Table of Contents

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Written by

Jessica B. White-Videa, DO, FACOG.

Ivonne Reynolds DO, LLC

Last updated May 25, 2023

Green vaginal discharge quiz

Take a quiz to find out what’s causing your discharge.

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Green vaginal discharge is often a sign that you have a vaginal infection. Common culprits are a yeast infection or vaginosis, but it is also a common symptom of STDs, like trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia. You will likely have other symptoms like irritation or pain with urinating. Prescription or over-the-counter medications are usually needed to treat it.

3 most common causes

Yeast Infection

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

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Vaginal trichomonas

Green vaginal discharge quiz

Take a quiz to find out what’s causing your discharge.

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Most common questions

Common causes of green vaginal discharge include vaginal infections such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and sexually transmitted infections. You should consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Was this information helpful?

Thank you! Buoy values your feedback. The more we know about what’s working – and what could improve – the better we can make our experience.

Having green vaginal discharge is not necessarily an emergency. However, if there is a fever or severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medications, it may be necessary to go to the emergency room.

Was this information helpful?

Thank you! Buoy values your feedback. The more we know about what’s working – and what could improve – the better we can make our experience.

Green vaginal discharge is often a sign of an infection, so it is recommended to call your doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Was this information helpful?

Thank you! Buoy values your feedback. The more we know about what’s working – and what could improve – the better we can make our experience.

Treatment for green vaginal discharge will depend on the underlying cause, but may involve anti-fungal creams, or antibiotics for possible infections.

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Your response today was provided by ChatGPT trained on the proprietary content of this page. Please note, this tool is for information purposes only and not intended to be used as a substitute for professional advice. You assume responsibility for decisions made with your individual medical situation.

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What does green vaginal discharge mean?

Vaginal discharge is normal. Its consistency changes throughout the month and is a key sign of ovulation. Some women naturally have more discharge than others. However, it is never normal to have green vaginal discharge.

Green vaginal discharge can be a sign of something relatively easy to treat, such as a yeast infection. Or it may be a sign of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). If you have a green vaginal discharge, it is very likely you will also have other symptoms, such as vaginal irritation and discomfort, pain with urination, and pelvic pain.

Most causes of green vaginal discharge are treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Causes

1. Vaginal trichomonas

Pro Tip

Trichomoniasis is the most common cause of green discharge. But most women with trichomoniasis are asymptomatic. They only find out they have it during a routine PAP smear. —Dr. Jessica White-Videa

Symptoms

• Vaginal odor
• Vaginal itching or burning
• More than usual vaginal discharge

Vaginal trichomonas, also called trichomoniasis or “trich,” is a common STD caused by a parasite. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it affects over 2 million people per year. Only about 30% have symptoms.

You need a test to make sure you have vaginal trichomonas. If the test is positive, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection.

2. Yeast infection

Symptoms

• Cottage cheese-like discharge
• Yellow or green-tinged discharge
• Vaginal itching and discomfort
• Swelling of the external genitals
• Burning or pain when urinating

A yeast infection is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans.

Yeast infections can happen because you’re taking antibiotics or birth control pills, are pregnant, or have diabetes or a weakened immune system. These conditions can disturb the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina.

Stress, sexual activity, living in a warm climate, and using perfumed soaps and other personal hygiene products can also raise your risk for yeast infection.

Over-the-counter and prescription anti-fungal creams and medications usually treat yeast infections.

3. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Symptoms

• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pelvic pain, including during sexual intercourse

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a general term for a bacterial infection of a woman’s reproductive organs. The major causes are two STDs called gonorrhea and chlamydia. But you can get PID from other bacteria commonly found in the rectal and vaginal area, including the one that causes bacterial vaginosis.

It’s important to talk to your doctor about any symptoms because untreated PID can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and abdominal pain. Treatment includes antibiotics. If the cause is chlamydia or gonorrhea, your partner also needs to get treated.

Other possible causes

A number of conditions may also cause green vaginal discharge, though these are either rare or green vaginal discharge is not usually the defining symptom. They include bacterial vaginosis and a tampon that’s kept in for too long.

When to call the doctor

As soon as you notice green vaginal discharge, call your doctor to determine the cause.

Dr. Rx

Important questions to ask your doctor: What is the underlying cause of this discharge? Should my partner be tested and treated? Should I be screened for other STDs? —Dr. White-Videa

Should I go to the ER for green vaginal discharge?

Your doctor should be able to treat most cases of green vaginal discharge. However, go to the emergency room if you have any of these signs of a more serious problem:

• Fever
• Severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medications
• Severe nausea and vomiting

Treatments

Pro Tip

When talking with your doctor, be very open and honest about your sexual history. —Dr. White-Videa

At-home care

• Use an over-the-counter, anti-fungal creams for suspected yeast infection.
• Use a cold compress, such as an ice pack wrapped in a washcloth, to alleviate discomfort due to itching or swelling

Other treatment options

• Prescription strength anti-fungal pills and creams
• Antibiotics for sexually transmitted infections

Prevention

• Avoid douching and the use of scented soaps to restore the balance of vaginal organisms.
• Use a condom during sexual intercourse to prevent STDs.
• Limit number of sexual partners.
• Replace or remove tampons after 4 to 8 hours, the FDA advises.

Jessica B. White-Videa, DO, FACOG.

Ivonne Reynolds DO, LLC

Dr. White-Videa is a board-certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist. She received her undergraduate degree in 2002, in Psychology from Barnard College in New York City . Dr. White-Videa then attended the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) starting in 2005. During that time, she participated in several medical mission trips and also mentored high school students who wanted to pursue car…

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What Causes Bloody Vaginal Discharge?

While there is an array of color and consistency to vaginal discharge, it’s quite common to have bloody vaginal discharge after your period. Other causes can relate to age, bacterial or yeast infections, or an STD.

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Vaginal Discharge Color Guide: What Is Normal?

Vaginal discharge is usually white or clear, but it can fluctuate throughout the month. Color changes typically aren’t cause for concern unless you’re experiencing other unusual symptoms.

Let’s be real: Many of us have experienced that moment when you pulled down your pants in the bathroom, saw a different color than usual, and asked, “Is that normal?”

This is often followed by questions like, “Is it the time of the month?” “What did I eat this week?” and even “How was the sex last night?”

Many of these colors are common and not a reflection of illness. But even if you know you’re in the clear, what do these colors actually mean?

Well, wonder no longer. We put together a color guide that’s not only medically accurate, but also fun to look at.

And even though there’s usually nothing to worry about, there’s also information on consulting a professional if you’re concerned.

Vaginal discharge is the medical term for fluid that comes from the vagina, and it’s an amazing thing.

It’s how your body gets rid of dead vaginal skin cells, bacteria, and secretions from your cervix and vagina to help protect your vaginal and urinary tracts from infection. It also keeps your vaginal tissues lubricated and clean.

Your hormones impact the amount and consistency of vaginal discharge, which is why you may have different amounts at certain times, like before menstruation, during pregnancy, or while using hormonal birth control.

Red or brown bloody discharge is common during menstruation. Colors might range from cherry red at the beginning of your period to rusty brown.

Some people have irregular periods and spotting. Others experience spotting due to their birth control method or hormonal changes.

If you see red throughout the month, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition, like an infection.

A variety of white shades of discharge, from eggshell to cream, can be common. Unless your discharge is accompanied by certain textures or smells, don’t fret too much.

White discharge can occur for many of the same reasons as clear discharge. It’s simply natural lubrication, keeping your vaginal tissue healthy and minimizing friction during sexual activity.

Very light yellow discharge is more common than you might think. Sometimes the color is daffodil yellow. Other times it’s more of a greener chartreuse.

This color is usually a sign of an infection, but if you know you’re probably in the clear (as in it’s a one-off occurrence), what you eat could affect the color.

Some people report this color change occurring whenever they take new vitamins or try certain foods.

Pink discharge, ranging from a very light blush to the deep pink of a sunset, is often just a sign of the beginning of your menstrual period.

Some people may periodically experience light bleeding after penetration with fingers, a sex toy, or a penis, which can result in pink discharge.

Clear discharge, which can also be whitish, is usually OK. It may have an egg-white like consistency. It’s also the go-to discharge a healthy body expels to rebalance itself — because the vagina is a self-cleaning organ.

During arousal, blood vessels in that vagina dilate and fluid passes through them, causing an increase in clear, watery discharge.

If it’s around day 14 of your menstrual cycle, you’re probably ovulating and producing cervical mucus.

If you have a reason to suspect pregnancy, this can also cause a change in hormones and increase how much discharge you have.

When white turns to gray, like storm clouds or exhaust, consult a doctor or other healthcare professional. It could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is a common overgrowth of bacteria.

Your clinician will likely prescribe antibacterial ointments or oral antibiotics.

Yup, healthy vaginal discharge has a smell. The smell comes from the combination of cells and organisms in it. Tack on sweat from neighboring groin glands, too.

Just like the amount of vaginal discharge secreted is dependent on hormones, so is the smell. This is why you might notice it smells different throughout the month. Sometimes you might not smell it at all.

Unless the smell is overly strong or unpleasant, it’s usually NBD.

If it bothers you, washing the area with warm water and changing your underwear daily can help keep the smell to a minimum.

If you’re worried about your discharge color, amount, or other symptoms, your body is pretty good at letting you know.

It’ll send some pretty specific cues, like itching, pain, and burning during urination, to tell you to get a downstairs checkup.

Consult a healthcare professional if you’re concerned about sexually transmitted infections or if your discharge is accompanied by these symptoms or signs:

• itching
• pain
• burning sensation during urination
• strong, foul odor
• frothy texture
• thick, cottage cheese texture
• gray color
• bleeding that’s unrelated to menstruation

Sometimes these conditions can be eliminated based on your individual circumstances.

Gonorrhea and chlamydia, for example, can generally be eliminated if you’ve never engaged in partnered sexual contact.

Although the chart below is a starting point, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional if you’re unable to pinpoint a cause, or if you’re unsure of your health status.

Healthy discharge helps keep the vagina clean, ward off infections, and provide lubrication. It changes with your body’s needs.

It’s also important to keep in mind that a range of shades and amounts of vaginal discharge is considered typical and varies from person to person.

But your vaginal discharge is also a reflection of your overall health. If discharge occurs unexpectedly or changes significantly in color, consistency, amount, or smell, consult a healthcare professional.

Likewise, if your discharge is accompanied by an itch or pelvic pain, it’s time to consult a clinician.

Read this article in Spanish.

Sarah Aswell is a freelance writer who lives in Missoula, Montana, with her husband and two daughters. Her writing has appeared in publications that include The New Yorker, McSweeney’s, National Lampoon, and Reductress. You can reach out to her on Twitter.

Yellow or green vaginal discharge in women

Yellow or green vaginal discharge, especially if they are abundant and accompanied by an unpleasant odor, is a sign of the development of a pathological process and a serious reason to consult a gynecologist.

Any change in the discharge, which is normally clear to milky white in color and practically odorless, should alert the woman. Discoloration of normal discharge to yellow, yellow-green or green, sometimes frothy, accompanied by an unpleasant (for example, fishy) odor, itching and burning in the vagina and vulva, pain in the pelvic area, dysuria, pain during intercourse – signs of infection or inflammation that requires treatment.

Discoloration, consistency or smell of discharge may be caused by infections, many of which are sexually transmitted (chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis). In some cases, a woman may have several types of such infections.

Bacterial vaginosis

This disease is characterized by signs such as a change in the smell of discharge to fish (especially after intercourse or during menstruation), a change in the color of the discharge to gray, yellow or greenish, itching and burning in the vagina and vulva (rare) . Often, bacterial vaginosis is asymptomatic, so it is very important to undergo regular preventive examinations by a gynecologist. The disease occurs due to a violation of the natural balance of lactobacilli in the vagina, this is the most common cause of pathological discharge in women of reproductive age (before menopause). The risk is higher in women who are sexually active, who have multiple sexual partners (the disease is not sexually transmitted, the risk increases due to a violation of the microflora of the vagina and an increased likelihood of bacterial reproduction), who do not use contraceptives such as condoms, who use douching, and also in pregnant women against the background of hormonal changes. In some cases, bacterial vaginosis resolves without treatment, but more often requires the use of antibiotic therapy. In most cases, a course of antibiotics is sufficient to achieve treatment success, but sometimes a second course of drugs is required. Treatment does not guarantee the absence of the disease in the future, according to statistics, more than 70% of women experience bacterial vaginosis again.

Pregnant women with bacterial vaginosis (whether symptomatic or not) are given drugs that are safe to use during pregnancy. Refusal of treatment can cause complications of pregnancy: premature birth or the birth of a child with a weight below the average.

Timely referral to a gynecologist for diagnosis and treatment of this condition is very important, as BV is associated with negative obstetric and gynecological outcomes, including increased susceptibility to STIs (especially HIV), complications after operations such as hysterectomy. In addition, the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are similar to those of other vaginal infections, so you need to see a doctor for differential diagnosis and treatment.

The disease is not fully understood, so there is no reliable way to avoid BV. Risk reduction is facilitated by: avoiding douching, limiting the number of sexual partners, using condoms, good personal hygiene, wearing cotton underwear.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. You can become infected with it, including during anal or oral sex, the use of common devices to satisfy sexual needs. The risk group includes people under 25 years of age, women with multiple sexual partners, women who previously had chlamydia, pregnant women. Often the infection does not show any symptoms, so people with chlamydia, not knowing that they are infected, do not take action and pass the infection on. The spread of the disease can only be reduced by regular examinations by a gynecologist, which, unfortunately, many women neglect. Meanwhile, in women, the complications of chlamydia are much more severe than in men – inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, pregnancy complications (premature birth, transmission of infection to the newborn), reactive arthritis, increased risk of HIV infection.

Symptoms of chlamydia (if present) are similar to those of cervicitis (inflammation in the cervix) and urinary tract infections: white, yellow or gray vaginal discharge, sometimes with an unpleasant odor, frequent urination, dysuria, pus in the urine, itching and burning in the vagina and vulva, intermenstrual bleeding, painful menstruation, discomfort and pain during intercourse, pain in the lower abdomen. Chlamydia can affect not only the reproductive organs, so along with the above symptoms, you need to pay attention to pain in the anus, mucus secretion, bleeding from the anus, sore throat, conjunctivitis.

Chlamydia is diagnosed using the Nucleic Acid Amplification Technique (NAAT), and a gynecologist may take a vaginal swab, cervical swab, or urine sample to test for Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria in the laboratory. Treatment of chlamydia is carried out with antibiotics (the duration of the course is determined by the doctor), which should never be stopped. During this time, you should abstain from sexual activity, try to tell all sexual partners that you have the infection, and get tested for other STIs, including HIV/AIDS, syphilis, herpes, and gonorrhea.

To reduce your risk of chlamydia, use condoms, have sex with a partner you know you have, and generally practice safer sex.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic disease caused by the vaginal Trichomonas Trichomonas vaginalis, also belongs to STIs, is highly contagious. Like chlamydia, trichomoniasis is often asymptomatic and therefore difficult to detect and treat (unless a woman has regular pelvic exams). Women are more prone to trichomoniasis than men, the risk increases if the rules of safe sex are ignored (refusal to use condoms) and if there are several sexual partners.

Symptoms of trichomoniasis include watery (sometimes frothy), profuse white, yellow or green discharge with an unpleasant odor, irritation and itching of the genitals, pain and burning during urination, pain during intimacy.

Diagnosis of the disease includes an examination by a gynecologist and a laboratory examination of a sample of discharge. Treatment is carried out with drugs with antiprotozoal and antimicrobial action for 5-7 days (infected and his partner / s). At this time, it is necessary to give up alcohol, since the interaction of drugs with it can cause side effects (nausea, vomiting, heart palpitations). After completing the course of treatment, you should refrain from intimacy for a week to avoid re-infection.

In pregnant women, treatment of trichomoniasis is carried out according to the same principle, failure to treat it can lead to complications such as premature birth (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) and low birth weight of the newborn.

Prevention of trichomoniasis includes the use of condoms, regular check-ups for sexually transmitted diseases, adherence to doctor’s recommendations for treating an identified infection, choosing a relationship with one sexual partner.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by gonococci (Neisseria gonorrhoeae). People who often change sexual partners and ignore the rules of safe sex are at high risk of the disease. The disease can be asymptomatic, so those infected do not immediately seek help and continue to infect their partners, unaware that they are sick.

If symptoms of gonorrhea are present, you may notice white or yellow vaginal discharge, pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis, pain and burning when urinating, intermenstrual bleeding, sore throat (if you practice oral sex).

Diagnosis of gonorrhea includes questioning the patient about symptoms, intimacy and sexual preferences, gynecological examination, urinalysis and a sample of secretions from the cervix, bacteriological culture from the throat or anus. Antibacterial therapy is prescribed for treatment (including the partner). After completing the course of treatment, you should refrain from intimacy for a week, as well as be tested for other sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV / AIDS, syphilis, herpes and chlamydia. Prevention of the disease is similar to the prevention of any STD.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Occurs when an infection (including STIs) enters the upper reproductive system (uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries) or the small pelvis (pelvioperitonitis). The risk of PID is higher in women with STIs (gonorrhea or chlamydia), who have had PID before, in sexually active women under 25 years of age, with multiple sexual partners, as well as after an abortion, complicated childbirth, insertion of an intrauterine device, gynecological operations. Without treatment, PID can lead to complications such as chronic pelvic pain syndrome, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.

Symptoms of the disease can be either mild or appear abruptly and suddenly. These include pain in the lower abdomen, yellow or green discharge with an unpleasant odor, nausea or vomiting, fever, pain during intimacy and urination, irregular periods, intermenstrual bleeding.

The diagnosis of PID is established on the basis of anamnesis, gynecological examination, determination of signs of infection and inflammation, and ultrasound results. Antibacterial therapy is prescribed for treatment. The earlier PID is treated, the less likely it is to develop complications.

Prevention of PID: avoid douching to reduce the chances of bacteria from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes from the vagina (the link between douching and PID is not definitively proven, however, it is definitely worth avoiding this method, as douching can provoke infection or yeast growth or bacteria), practice safe sex and use a condom.

Author:

Amelicheva Alena Aleksandrovna
medical editor

Publication date: February 8, 2022

Update date: September 6, 2022

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