It may indicate an infection if it is dark yellow, greenish, or has a foul odor.
In such cases, medical treatment is often needed.
Vaginal discharge naturally varies in color due tohormonal fluctuations.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
In some cases, yellow discharge may simply signal an approaching period or early pregnancy.
While some people with BV have no symptoms, others may notice changes in their vaginal discharge.
It can be triggered by douching, new or multiple sexual partners, and an imbalance invaginal pH.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasisis a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) sparked by a parasite calledTrichomonas vaginalis.
Many people with these infections have no symptoms, which is why routineSTI screeningis important.
Yeast Infection
Yellow vaginal discharge can indicate ayeast infection, a fungal overgrowth caused byCandida albicans.
These include:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics, while viral infections like herpes are managed with antiviral medications such asacyclovir.
The main causes of PID are STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, ormycoplasma genitalium.
Not everyone with PID will experience symptoms.
But those who do may have:
PID is treated with a combination of antibiotics.
This may include an injection of ceftriaxone accompanied by a twice-daily dose of doxycycline for seven days.
Hormonal Changes
Vaginal discharge is normal when it is white, transparent, and odorless.
Its consistency can range from thick to thin, and a light yellowish hue is often harmless.
During the middle of themenstrual cycle, vaginal discharge increases and takes on an egg-white consistency.
Duringpregnancy, the body produces more vaginal discharge to help prevent infections.
This happens because the cervix and vaginal walls become softer as the body prepares for birth.
Thedischargeis usually clear or white but can look yellow after drying in underwear.
If the discharge is light yellow and odorless, its usually not a concern.
If cervicitis is due to an irritant, avoiding triggerssuch as scented products or latex condomsmay help symptoms resolve.
If not treated immediately, an infection like this can increase the risk ofpreterm birthor low birth weight.
Whilecondomsprotect against many STIs, they do not fully prevent the spread of certain STIs like herpes and HPV.
Open communication with your partner can also help reduce STI risk.
This includes:
The more partners you have, the higher your STI risk.
Even bacterial vaginosis, which is not sexually transmitted, is more common in those with multiple partners.
Douchingis unnecessary and can cause harm.
If you notice an odor, it likely comes from the vulva, not the vagina.
Washing with water and mild soap is enough to keep the area clean.
Avoid scented products, as fragrances can irritate and disrupt vaginal health.
However, it may also be a sign of infections, including STIs and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Yellow discharge may also be noted in early pregnancy.
If you are concerned about your discharge or your health, speak with your healthcare provider.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.It’s your future, it’s possible for you to protect it.
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