Yellow discharge with an unpleasant odor. Yellow discharge in women: causes and treatment

Yellow discharge in women has a different nature of origin. The appearance of mucus is influenced by physiological and pathological factors. When assessing your health, you should take into account the intensity of the discharge, its smell, color and impurities. Physiologically normal discharge does not require treatment. They appear at different periods of a woman’s life and are not accompanied by deterioration in well-being. Painful discharge always occurs with the addition of discomfort, pain, discomfort and itching.

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  Yellow discharge within normal range

  Yellow discharge in women is divided into physiologically normal and pathological. Cervical mucus is necessary to moisturize the mucous membranes of the vagina. It performs cleansing functions, protects against infections and helps sperm move along the reproductive tract. The composition of cervical mucus includes epithelium, microflora, leukocytes and secretions of the mucous membranes. The color of the discharge changes depending on the menstrual cycle:

  • The first days after menstruation, a small amount of cervical mucus is produced. It has a thick consistency, which gives it a yellowish tint.
  • Increased mucus a few days before ovulation. It can become cloudy, and the consistency resembles glue. At this time, you may notice white or white-yellow spots on your underwear.
  • The maximum amount of discharge is observed during the period of ovulation. The color is usually clear or cloudy, but becomes yellowish if hygiene is poor.

  Yellow discharge in women during menstruation is considered normal.. The mucus should not contain clots or smell bad.

  General symptoms

  Pathological discharge is always accompanied by unpleasant sensations. The appearance of yellow mucus should be a reason to contact a gynecologist for examination. The development of pathological processes is also indicated by difficulty urinating, pain in the lower abdomen and pain during sexual intercourse.

  Yellow pathological discharge in women is accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • vaginal itching;
  • burning;
  • sour smell;
  • the smell of fish;
  • presence of clots;
  • curd discharge;
  • temperature rise.

  Such secretions differ from physiological ones in color saturation. Painful mucus will have brighter colors. Vaginal candidiasis is characterized by a fishy odor. With candidiasis, the discharge is light in color, but the advanced form is manifested by the presence of yellow mucus.

  

  Bacterial diseases

  The exact reason for the appearance of yellow discharge in a woman cannot be determined solely by color and smell. Diseases can be caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi. Pathological discharge is profuse. They can change their color and shade depending on the severity of the pathology.

  Diseases of the reproductive organs:

  • Vaginitis. The cause is bacteria and fungi of the genus Candida. The provoking factors are mechanical injuries to the mucous membranes of the vagina, diseases of the endocrine system, an allergic reaction or decreased immunity. The disease occurs with itching, pain during urination and sexual intercourse, and the mucus will have an unpleasant odor. In gynecological practice, pathology occurs in women of reproductive age.
  • Adnexitis. An inflammatory disease. Affects the uterine appendages and tubes. Develops due to staphylococcus, streptococcus, E. coli, gonococcus. The provoking factor for the disease is the presence of chronic stress, overwork, and decreased immunity. If left untreated, the integrity of the epithelial lining of the uterus is damaged. With pathology, pain appears in the lower abdomen, disturbances in the menstrual cycle and urination. In severe cases, adnexitis leads to infertility.
  • Salpingitis. Inflammatory disease of the fallopian tubes. Develops in the presence of pathological microflora. Serous fluid accumulates, which eventually turns yellow. Symptoms include pain during menstruation, fever, nausea and vomiting.

  Bacteria are part of the neutral microflora of the vagina. They do not cause harm if you have a healthy immune system. The fallopian tube and appendages are in a sterile state. The presence of even neutral bacteria in these organs leads to the development of diseases.

  

  Sexually transmitted diseases

  If you notice bright yellow mucus after sexual intercourse, then there is a high probability of having an STD. Associated symptoms include pain during sex, vaginal burning and itching, bleeding in the middle of the menstrual cycle, and an unpleasant odor.

  STDs that cause yellow discharge in women:

  • Gonorrhea. The incubation period is 2-10 days. The mucus takes on a yellow or yellowish-green hue. The woman will feel pain during urination, and the discharge itself causes irritation and redness of the external genitalia.
  • Trichomoniasis. It is considered the most common infection of the genitourinary system. A feature of the disease is swelling of the external genitalia and the presence of foamy yellow discharge. There is severe itching and irritation of the mucous membranes. The incubation period is 4-5 days, but the disease can be asymptomatic for a long time.
  • Chlamydia. The disease affects 5 to 15% of people of reproductive age. The female body is more susceptible to chlamydia than the male body. It occurs with the release of purulent mucus.

  Yellow purulent discharge indicates damage to the uterus, appendages or fallopian tubes. The presence of such mucus indicates that organ tissues are in a neglected state. Lack of treatment significantly increases the risk of developing infertility.

  Yellow discharge during menopause

  Menopause in women occurs after 50 years. During this phase, the body prepares itself to stop reproduction. A restructuring of the endocrine system occurs, as a result of which hormonal levels are disrupted. Estrogen is responsible for the functioning of a woman’s genital organs. Lack of this hormone leads to the development of endometrial hyperplasia. The mucous membranes become coarser, which increases the concentration of epithelium in the mucus. The yellow color can be caused not only by a high concentration of epithelial tissue, but also by the absence of menstruation.

  The onset of menopause is preceded by a lengthening of the cycle. First it increases to 40 days, then by 2 months. Women do have periods during menopause, but they are scanty. At this time, yellow discharge may be observed, as during normal menstruation. Scanty bleeding can turn them dark.

  During pregnancy

  In early pregnancy, a woman experiences vaginal discharge. Normally they are transparent or slightly yellowish. Mucus is the excess secretion that the cervix produces after conception. A kind of plug is formed to preserve the fetus from negative factors.

  Yellow discharge in women during pregnancy normally occurs in the second trimester. They are caused by active growth of the fetus, as well as changes in hormonal levels. The vaginal mucosa becomes sensitive. External irritants in the form of pads or synthetic underwear can prompt the body to increase secretion.

  Copious yellow discharge appears a week before giving birth. They mean that the mucous plug that protects the entrance to the uterus has come off. Pure, abundant discharge of a transparent color is not a pathology during pregnancy. However, the presence of symptoms in the form of itching, burning and pain indicate the addition of an infection.

  Treatment at home

  Treatment of yellow discharge in women at home involves complex therapy. Traditional medicine and medications are used. Before starting treatment, you should consult your doctor.

  Therapeutic rules:

  Traditional medicine recipes:

  Means	Description
  Pine needle baths	Add 150 g of dry pine to 3 liters of water. It is necessary to use bark, trunk or branches with fresh needles. Cook for 40 minutes over low heat. It turns out a light antibacterial extract for taking baths
  Nettle juice	Take a dessert spoon 3 times a day. Helps reduce pain associated with yellow discharge or menstruation
  Decoction for douching	Add a tablespoon of blueberry leaves to a glass of boiling water. Boil for 15 minutes. Filter and cool before use. Use 1 time per day
  St. John's wort	A tablespoon of dry herb per 1 liter of boiling water. Cook for 30 minutes over low heat. Strain through cheesecloth and use for douching

  Drug therapy:

  Group	Drugs, description	Photo
  Antifungal	Pimafucin, Candide, Kanison, Mycozon. Available in the form of tablets and ointments. For the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, the priority is to use topical agents. The drugs act on fungal cells, inhibiting their development and reproduction
  Antibiotics	Pancef, Amoxicillin, Miramistin, Amosin. Antibacterial drugs suppress the activity of not only pathogenic microflora, but also neutral ones. Dysbacteriosis is one of the reasons for the development of candidiasis, so long-term use of antibiotics should be accompanied by antifungal medications
  Antiviral	Altevir, Arbidol, Valtrex, Ingavirin. All antiviral drugs are prescribed by a doctor after examination and diagnosis. Antivirals should be taken with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, since these medications are highly toxic

Yellow discharge in women

Yellow vaginal discharge in women is an alarming symptom that accompanies a number of serious diseases.

When else can there be yellow secretion?

A girl's yellow discharge on her panties may be due to improper hygiene. The fact is that urine contains coloring pigments, and if a few drops get on your underwear after urinating, a yellow stripe will remain.

If discharge comes from the vagina, consultation with a pediatric gynecologist is necessary. This may be a sign of inflammation (what kind will be clear after the examination) or the result of a foreign object in the vagina.

Bright yellow vaginal discharge may occur after using certain medications, for example, suppositories with sea buckthorn oil.

Yellowish discharge may occur against the background of cervical erosion or after its treatment. If after 3 - 4 weeks the condition after cauterization does not return to normal, a second consultation with a gynecologist is necessary.
What examinations should a woman undergo if she has vaginal discharge:

Physical examination by a gynecologist;
vaginal smear for microflora;
PCR diagnostics for STIs;
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs.
colposcopy, etc.

Additional examinations are possible if indicated.

Treatment

Before starting therapy, it is necessary to establish the cause that led to the pathological process.

STIs are treated with antibacterial drugs taking into account sensitivity. In the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, it is considered important to restore the normal biocenosis of the vagina; local therapy, probiotics and prebiotics, multivitamins, etc. are used. The treatment regimen for cervicitis also depends on the factor that triggered the inflammation.

Endometritis after childbirth requires elimination of the provoking cause (for example, an abandoned piece of the placenta) followed by antibacterial, anti-inflammatory therapy.
Gynecologists often prescribe Terzhinan for vaginal discharge.

This is a drug for local treatment, contains a broad-spectrum antibiotic (neomycin), a hormone (prednisolone) and antimycotic components (nystatin and ternidazole).

Important! When using vaginal tablets as the only remedy without examination, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis and other infections can become latent.

Indications for use:

Bacterial vaginosis;
thrush;
trichomonas infection;
as a preventive measure before medical gynecological interventions;
before childbirth.

During the first trimester of pregnancy, the use of Terzhinan is prohibited.

Release form: tablets for insertion into the vagina.

The frequency and duration are determined individually.

All women have discharge from the genitals. They do not cause any discomfort, are odorless, and appear transparent, white or yellowish-white. If you notice yellow discharge, this will not necessarily be the cause of any disease. We will try to help you figure this out.

Discharge is considered normal if:

• there is no smell;
• color white-yellow;
• a healthy woman usually secretes 3-6 ml per day (but do not forget that the amount of fluid secreted constantly changes throughout the month, this is all related to hormonal changes in the phases of the menstrual cycle);
• their consistency can be either liquid or thick;
• The discharge is not accompanied by burning or itching.

But if you notice that the discharge is bright yellow, swelling of the external genital organs, which causes discomfort in the form of itching, burning, or an unpleasant odor, then this is a reason to urgently consult a gynecologist.

Pathological yellow discharge

Discharge with an unpleasant odor, itching and burning

The causes of pathological discharge may be:

Adnexit

Adnexitis is an inflammatory process that can be asymptomatic in the initial stage. According to its course, adnexitis can be unilateral or bilateral. The causes may be:

• general hypothermia of the body;
• STI infections;
• chronic diseases in the acute stage;
• abortions,

Features of discharge during adnexitis:

The discharge is mucopurulent. In the acute stage, the discharge is bright yellow and has an unpleasant odor.

Salpingitis

This is the same adnexitis. (see above)

Colpitis

Colpitis is an inflammatory process of the vaginal mucosa. Other names for this disease are vaginitis, vaginosis. There are several forms of colpitis: chronic, acute, subacute. The causes of the disease are:

• STI infections;
• improper intimate hygiene;
• chronic diseases;
• damage to the mucous membrane;
• obesity;
• diabetes;
• use of antibiotics;
• stress.

Features of discharge during colpitis:

The discharge may be yellow, liquid or foamy, and may be mixed with pus. Such discharge causes itching and burning.

Cervititis

Cervititis is an inflammatory process of the cervix. This disease mainly occurs in women who are constantly sexually active. Many women may not know about this disease. Since its symptoms can be asymptomatic. The disease is transmitted mainly through sexual contact. For infection, staphylococci, mycoplasmas, etc. are enough, all of them are transmitted through blood and lymph.

Features of discharge with cervititis:

The discharge is mucous, cloudy, and may be mixed with pus.

Bacterial vaginitis

Bacterial vaginitis is a disruption of the normal microflora of the vagina. It mainly occurs against the background of decreased immunity, inflammatory diseases, and the use of an intrauterine device. The main reasons are considered:

• hormonal disbalance,
• taking antibiotics,
• frequent douching or washing,
• after childbirth,
• intestinal dysbiosis.

Features of discharge with bacterial vaginitis:

The discharge is abundant, with a distinct specific odor. (smell of fish). There is itching and burning.

Cervical erosion

Cervical erosion is a violation of the integrity of the cervix. There are two types of erosion: true and false. The cause of erosion is considered to be:

• STI infections (if sexual intercourse began at an early age),
• genital injuries,
• menstrual irregularities.

However, there are no symptoms of this disease. This disease is detected only when examined by a gynecologist on a gynecological chair using a gynecological speculum.

Features of discharge during uterine erosion:

They are not observed in all cases, since local pathological changes in its mucosa may not manifest themselves in any way. In various cases, you may experience: red, pink or brown discharge, white discharge, yellow and green discharge.

STI

There may be diseases such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia, etc.

Features of discharge during STIs:

The discharge is yellowish in color with a sharp, specific odor.

Allergic reactions

Allergies can occur to tampons, pads, condoms, underwear, powder and much more.

Features of discharge during allergic reactions:

The discharge may be yellowish in color.

Yellow discharge without odor

There is yellow discharge that has no odor and does not cause discomfort. They have a mucus-like consistency. There is no need to treat such discharge. The reasons for these discharges are:

• before the arrival of menstruation;
• during pregnancy;
• after childbirth;
• hormonal changes (adulting, aging);
• use of hormonal drugs;
• stress.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman's hormonal background changes dramatically. This is why discharge occurs that the woman usually did not observe.

During pregnancy up to 12 weeks, yellow, thick discharge that is odorless may appear.

At the same time, the woman has neither itching nor burning.

In the second half of pregnancy, the discharge may increase slightly in volume. These discharges also cannot cause any discomfort to the woman.

But if a pregnant woman notices that a sharp unpleasant odor has appeared and the color has turned bright yellow, then this is a reason to urgently contact an obstetrician-gynecologist.

During menopause, hormonal levels change dramatically. Therefore, a woman’s discharge may be different until the body is completely rebuilt.

If a woman observes odorless yellow discharge that does not bother the woman in any way (no itching, burning, irritation), then this is considered normal.

These discharges can occur during the body’s usual onset of menstruation or after it. There may also be yellow discharge in the middle of the cycle.

But if you see yellow-green discharge that has a sharp unpleasant smell (most often of rotten fish), pain, burning, then this is a reason to urgently consult a gynecologist. The causes of such discharge can be both infectious diseases and inflammatory processes.

Yellow discharge after sex

What does yellow discharge after sex indicate? They can say a lot, so you need to pay attention to the exact shade, consistency, volume and, of course, smell. Light shade: more of a natural lubricant that mixes with male and female secretions. Dark yellowish discharge with a foul odor may be a sign of infection. Consistency: viscous and thick, foamy. A yellow secretion may indicate inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system.

When should you contact a gynecologist?

The discharge is yellow in color, not profuse, has no odor, has a uniform consistency and does not cause increased urination, no itching, no burning, discharge that may increase before the onset of menstruation - does not require treatment.

But, if the discharge has become cheesy, has a pungent odor, and if you feel even slight discomfort in the intimate area, then this is a reason to urgently consult a gynecologist.

In order to understand the cause of these discharges and make a correct diagnosis, you need to take a smear.

Diagnosis and treatment

You can diagnose the cause of pathological discharge at an appointment with a gynecologist, who will examine you in a chair and. Based on the results of the smear, the doctor will recognize the cause and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Treatment is divided into topical tablets and general tablets. Antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotics are prescribed. All this depends on the disease. Usually prescribed: Flucostat, Mikomax, Irunin, Pimafucin and others.

Basically, Polygynax is prescribed for fungal or bacterial diseases.

For vaginosis or to restore normal vaginal microflora, Lactagel is prescribed.

Douching or baths are also prescribed in the complex.

Prescribe medications to support and restore immunity.

How to prevent relapse of the disease? The importance of rehabilitation

Any disease is easier to prevent than to treat. Measures to prevent yellow discharge:

• proper intimate hygiene;
• healthy lifestyle;
• protected sexual intercourse;
• When taking antibiotics, it is imperative to prevent vaginal dysbiosis.

During treatment, you should completely abstain from sexual activity. Take all medications prescribed by your doctor and carry out all procedures. Lead a healthy lifestyle and eat a properly balanced diet.

After treatment, you must take a second test (smear). And then, for two weeks, take vitamins and medications to support the immune system.

Both partners need to be treated. If you have a regular sexual partner, then he should contact an andrologist for testing.

All this will help you avoid relapse (recurrence) of the disease.

Treatment at home: traditional methods

Do not forget that treatment at home or traditional medicine gives the effect of additional treatment to the main one prescribed by the doctor.

Proper nutrition

Initially, what is needed is to restore proper balanced nutrition. You should completely exclude from your diet:

• sesame,
• seeds,
• fried,
• spicy,
• salty,
• bold
• conservation.

The diet should include as many fresh fruits, vegetables (carrots, parsley, celery and much more), berries, and juices as possible.

Intimate hygiene

Proper intimate hygiene is the key to healthy genital organs. To do this, it is necessary to properly care for the external genitalia. It is necessary to wash yourself at least twice a day using intimate products.

Baths using pine or pine extract

To do this, you need to take 3 liters of water and add 150 ml of pine or pine needle extract. Boil the resulting solution for 40 minutes, cool. This type of bath is used before bed once a day for a week.

Douching is carried out using:

Blueberry leaves
To prepare, you need 1 tablespoon of leaves per glass of water. Boil all this for 15 minutes, strain and douche before going to bed.

St. John's wort
Preparation: 3 tbsp. St. John's wort, 2 l. water. Boil for 30 minutes, strain and syringe 2-3 times a day.

Eucalyptus
Preparation: 2 tablespoons of leaves per half liter of water. Cook for 15-20 minutes. Douche 2 times a day.

Oak bark
Preparation: 1 tbsp. herbs for 1 liter. water, cook for 20 minutes. Douche 2-3 times a day.

Decoctions

You can also use decoctions for oral administration. Here is one of the recipes.

Immortal sandstone flowers. Preparation: 1 tbsp. l. flowers per 200 ml of water, boil everything for 10-15 minutes. Then you need to leave for 30 minutes. Take 50 ml before meals - once a day.

A certain amount of vaginal discharge is necessary to maintain the health of a woman's reproductive system. They moisturize the mucous membrane, contribute to the creation of proper microflora and protect the body from the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms. However, situations may arise when the discharge becomes pathological, which, as a rule, is one of the first signals about the development of a pathological process in the organs of the reproductive system, and sometimes in the whole organism.

Causes of yellow discharge

One of the common deviations from the norm is a change in the color of the secretion secreted by the glandular structures of the vagina. Normal discharge may be clear or whitish, but the appearance of yellowness, as a rule, is not an option for healthy glandular activity. Only in certain cases is this condition physiologically determined. As a rule, the changes are short-lived and are not accompanied by other alarming symptoms.

In other cases, the appearance of yellow discharge is a cause for concern and an immediate visit to the gynecologist. Among the diseases that can manifest as changes in the color of leucorrhoea are the following:

1. First of all, these are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In the case of the presence of one pathogenic microorganism, the risk of a concomitant infection increases significantly. Thus, with trichomoniasis, yellow foamy discharge with a greenish tint may be observed. In this case, it is mandatory to conduct an analysis to identify pathogens such as chlamydia, mycoplasma, ureaplasma and gonococci. In the latter case, the discharge becomes creamy and purulent in nature. Additional symptoms in this case are pain when urinating, severe itching in the external genital area and burning sensation in the vagina.

2. Nonspecific bacterial vaginitis. Inflammatory processes in the vagina can also be caused by opportunistic bacteria that normally live on the vaginal mucosa (for example, gardnerella). But if favorable conditions arise, for example, with a decrease in immunity or while taking antibacterial agents, they cause considerable harm. This situation is characterized by abundant yellow discharge. It should be remembered that the development of bacterial vaginitis can also be facilitated by poor personal hygiene.

3. Another normal inhabitant of the vaginal mucosa is a fungus of the genus Candida. In a healthy woman’s body, it is a component of the natural microflora in small quantities, but if the same conditions arise that promote its active reproduction, a very unpleasant disease can develop, candidiasis or, simply put, thrush. The discharge can be white, with a cheesy consistency, but sometimes it also takes on a yellowish tint. Especially in the case of other infections.

4. Vaginal discharge may also indicate “deeper” pathological processes. So, with erosion of the cervix with the addition of a staphylococcal infection, purulent cervicitis, they acquire a yellow tint. Inflammatory diseases of the uterus and its appendages can also provoke the release of a secretion of a similar color. It should be remembered that inflammation of this localization is dangerous not only due to purulent complications, general weakening of the body and the spread of infection, but also the risk of infertility.

Given the variety of reasons that can cause yellow discharge in women, any suspicion of a change in the color, smell or consistency of vaginal secretions should be examined by a specialist. This should also be done regularly once a year as a preventive measure.

Yellow vaginal discharge: diagnostic procedures

During a visit to a specialist, it may turn out that the observed discharge in a woman is physiologically determined and is not a symptom of any disease. This conclusion can be made only after a thorough history collection, a full examination and additional examinations. A yellow tint of discharge may appear due to the following non-pathological reasons:

• taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills);
• exposure to excessive emotional stress, exposure to prolonged stressful situations;
• stay up to two months after childbirth;
• various hormonal changes;
• the first and last days of menstruation, as well as the period of ovulation;
• the presence of previous sexual intercourse, accompanied by ejaculate entering the vagina.

Among the diagnostic procedures, in addition to examining the reproductive system itself, it is important to take a smear from the vagina to study such important indicators as the concentration of leukocytes, epithelial cells, and determination of flora, including pathogenic ones. In a non-detailed analysis, only the level of possible thrush pathogens can be determined. For special indications, material is collected and vaginal secretions are examined for the presence of STDs and other pathogenic microorganisms.

The following can be used as instrumental studies in gynecological practice:

1. Colposcopy is a research method that allows a detailed assessment of the condition of the mucous membrane of the vulva, vagina and cervix. It is used primarily in cases of suspected dysplasia or cervical cancer, to determine the need for a biopsy.

2. Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs - there are two ways to apply the sensor: transabdominal and transvaginal. The first option is shown to assess the overall picture for girls who are not sexually active. The second is for the purpose of a detailed examination of the cervix and uterine cavity, fallopian tubes, ovaries and surrounding soft tissues.

3. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging may be indicated if other methods are insufficiently informative.

4. X-ray examination methods, for example, metrosalpingography, may also be prescribed.

An important component of diagnostic procedures is taking a smear for cytology in order to identify possible changes in mucosal cells. If there are suspicious results, taking into account the conclusion of colposcopy, a biopsy of vaginal and cervical tissue may be prescribed. Other methods of additional research are also used, depending on the prescription of the attending physician.

How is yellow discharge treated in women?

After conducting examinations and making a diagnosis, the doctor prescribes prescriptions, taking into account the individual characteristics of this particular patient. If necessary, the patient can be referred for consultation to other specialists, since problems in the reproductive system often occur not as independent diseases, but as a component of a cause-and-effect chain. So, after suffering a serious illness of any other localization, the body’s condition weakens as a whole, which increases the risk of developing most of the above diseases of the genital organs. In turn, a chronic focus of inflammation in the vagina, uterus or ovaries also has a detrimental effect on the body’s resistance, increasing the possibility, for example, of developing colds.

If a specific pathogen is detected, antibacterial, antiviral or antifungal therapy may be prescribed to get rid of yellow discharge. Drugs can be prescribed either in the form of tablets, intravenously or locally, for example, in the form of vaginal suppositories. Various anti-inflammatory and restorative agents can also be used.

As preventive measures to avoid the recurrence of such a symptom as yellow vaginal discharge, the following recommendations should be indicated:

• lead a healthy lifestyle: give the body regular moderate physical activity and adhere to a balanced diet;
• observe the rules of personal hygiene, while being careful with chemicals;
• do not overcool;
• wear comfortable underwear made from natural fabrics;
• avoid questionable sexual relations;
• be attentive to health: qualitatively treat any ailment at the initial stages;
• if necessary, promptly replenish the deficiency of microelements and vitamins in the body.

Yellow discharge in women is one of the most common complaints when visiting a gynecologist. In most cases, this is how infectious and inflammatory diseases of the genital area manifest themselves. But sometimes, normally, vaginal secretion acquires a yellowish tint. Next, we will tell you what secretions distinguish a healthy state from a pathology.

When is there no reason to worry?

Infections, neoplasms, and inflammatory processes show their existence through a complex of signs, which include not only the color of the discharge. Therefore, in a normal state, a woman does not feel discomfort, pain, itching, or burning. Of the qualitative characteristics of vaginal secretion, the most obvious symptoms of pathology are an unpleasant odor, putrid, rotten, profuse, unusual structure, foamy, granular, as well as inclusions in the form of lumps, veins, inclusions.

The standard for a woman’s healthy discharge:

• Transparent or whitish in modest quantities, odorless, uniform mucous structure and without accompanying manifestations of pathology;
• The yellowish tint of the secretion, if all other conditions are met, is explained by the intake of vitamins, medications, dietary errors, and the individual characteristics of the woman;
• Sometimes the onset of conception is marked;
• Normally, before and after the end of menstruation, the secretion contains a little blood, and therefore has an unusual color;
• At the time of ovulation, hormonal changes slightly alter vaginal discharge. They become more abundant, with a jelly-like consistency, similar to snot with a slight yellow tint.

Attention! If it appears, you should immediately consult a doctor. Infections can penetrate the membranes and infect the baby.

What diseases does the symptom hide?

There can be many reasons for yellow discharge in women, but the doctor will diagnose colpitis. This just confirms the fact of inflammation in the vagina. More precisely - candidiasis, trichomonas, post-traumatic or allergic, one can say when determining the cause of the discharge.

Infections

1. STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, are those that enter the vagina in most cases during sex with a carrier. Among the most common are Trichomonas, gonococci, chlamydia, genital herpes, and mycoplasmas. Their presence always requires treatment, regardless of the number. These microbes definitely cause disease.
2. Opportunistic microorganisms in the course of life enter a woman’s vagina from the outside through everyday use. Through hands, underwear, objects. In the process of washing, douching, installing tampons or suppositories, etc. They are also transmitted during sexual intercourse, but this method of spread is not the most common. A significant difference from STD pathogens is that opportunistic pathogens live in the vaginal flora for years without causing any problems in a woman. Only when immunity decreases for various reasons does their reproduction lead to inflammation and discharge. This group includes Candida fungi, bacteria Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Gardnerella, Ureaplasma, Escherichia coli and others.

Expert opinion

Olga Yurievna Kovalchuk

Doctor, expert

The vaginal secretion reacts to everything foreign. Therefore, after sex with a new partner, women report copious discharge of white, yellow or cream color with mild discomfort. They disappear after a couple of hours. With a systematic change of men, the likelihood of STDs and vaginal dysbiosis is high.

The discharge for each pathogen is slightly different:

• With gonorrhea and trichomoniasis, the secretion becomes purulent with a greenish-yellow tint, a foamy structure, a very unpleasant odor, and often has a fishy character. Bacteria in the process of vital activity quickly affect the tissues of the vagina, resulting in pain in the perineum, lower abdomen, burning of the genitals and severe itching. Pathogens also affect the urethra, which makes it painful for a woman to empty her bladder, she often wants to go to the toilet, and the fluid comes out cloudy, sometimes with blood. A bright clinical picture is more typical for men; women often have only pathological discharge and itching;
• With chlamydia or mycoplasmosis, the secretion changes its characteristics depending on the degree of inflammation of the vagina. At first, there is copious discharge, liquid like water, colorless and odorless; over time, it acquires a dirty white or cloudy yellow hue, but the aroma is not as obvious as with gonorrhea, for example;
• Viruses reveal their presence through a clear, watery, odorless, mucous and liquid secretion. But with the addition of bacteria, the discharge becomes purulent in nature with a yellow color and a corresponding odor;
• With candidiasis or thrush, a woman's secretion is white, thick, granular or creamy. The curdled discharge received this name not only for its appearance, but also for its characteristic sour aroma. When they come out of the vagina they are white, but when they are on underwear they turn yellow from oxidation with air. Sometimes the color of the secretion is explained by a combination with another infection or the presence of blood due to ulceration of the vaginal mucosa by fungi. Associated symptoms are severe itching, especially when sitting for a long time, during sleep, when walking, burning after sex, touching and using the toilet, redness and swelling of the tissues, dryness of the woman’s vagina during intimacy;
• Gardnerellosis is characterized by abundant discharge of green, less often yellow, color, with the smell of rotten fish;
• Other opportunistic bacteria cause a copious secretion of a purulent nature with an unpleasant aroma of gray, white, yellow, green hue;
• After the acute phase of any infection, there is a lull. The disease becomes chronic, discharge is scanty, and accompanying symptoms disappear.

Attention! In life, it is not always possible to see something specific based on the shade of vaginal secretion due to the combination of several infectious agents in a woman, so one can only assume a diagnosis on one’s own.

Organ diseases

Vaginitis (another name for colpitis) is inflammation of the vaginal mucosa not only due to the activity of microbes, but also for other reasons:

• Injuries during childbirth, gynecological manipulations, operations, non-standard sexual contacts;
• Allergic reaction to medications, tampons, pads, synthetics in underwear, soap, etc.

As a result of the rejection of damaged cells and the increased content of white blood cells, vaginal discharge occurs that is more abundant and dense than usual. The color of the secretion is whitish or yellow. Sometimes the injured areas bleed, which turns it yellow-brown or orange. If the situation is not corrected with treatment at this point, a complication will arise in the form of a bacterial infection.

Adnexitis, salpingitis and oophoritis are inflammation localized in the area of ​​the uterine appendages - the tubes and ovaries of a woman. It occurs due to STD pathogens and opportunistic microbes, as well as as a result of injuries, decreased immunity, hypothermia, and endocrine disorders. The clinic manifests itself in pain in the lower back and abdomen on one side (rarely on both sides), problems with emptying the bladder, disruptions in the menstrual cycle, vaginal discharge of white, brown, orange, yellow, gray color with a mild, strongly unpleasant odor.

Carefully! If inflammation of the appendages is not treated, then in the future the woman faces infertility.

Yellow leucorrhoea due to various neoplasms

Polyps of the uterus and cervix, ovarian cysts, fibroids, fibroids lead to changes in vaginal secretion. Blood and pus color the discharge yellow, brown, pink and orange. This is not a symptom of these diseases, but a sign of complications that have developed against their background, including damage and bacterial infection.

Oncological tumors manifest themselves as purulent yellow vaginal discharge with ichor, a very unpleasant odor that does not go away even after washing, and severe pain afterwards. But in some cases, uterine cancer manifests itself as a brown secretion with black clots. A characteristic symptom of cancer is rapid weight loss.

Attention! Today, cervical or uterine cancer is detected by a smear. This analysis of a woman’s discharge is called “tumor markers.” It allows you to catch the tumor in the bud, which significantly increases the chances of recovery.

Cervical erosion

The altered state of the epithelium in this area leads to microbleeding. After examination on the chair, or sexual intercourse, spotting brown or yellow vaginal discharge may appear. The problem is often accompanied by a bacterial infection.

Taking contraceptives

When using hormonal drugs, restructuring occurs. It is reflected primarily in the characteristics of vaginal secretions. Discharge changes structure, quantity and color. Often yellow or white, sometimes brown and even black. Therefore, contraception is used under the supervision of a gynecologist so as not to harm the woman’s health. Sometimes it happens that instead of menstruation, yellow discharge occurs. This is a clear signal of imbalance, which requires discontinuation of the drug and selection of another remedy.

After gynecological manipulations

Abortion, curettage, polypectomy, cyst removal and uterine amputation. Any interventions lead to changes in vaginal secretion. Therefore, depending on the type and severity of the intervention, bloody, yellow, or brown discharge occurs.

If an unpleasant odor develops, the temperature rises, or acute pain is felt, then you need to quickly call an ambulance. A complication has occurred in the form of infection, which can result in sepsis and death.

Attention! Today, after any intervention in the genital area, women are prescribed vaginal sanitation with antibacterial and antiseptic suppositories, which negates the risk of infection.

How to find out what is the cause of yellow vaginal discharge?

To calm your soul, you can first look for answers on forums, in this or another article on medical websites, or in reviews. But a reliable diagnosis can only be made in a doctor’s office. The gynecologist will conduct an examination and take a sample of the secretion, interview the woman, and prescribe the necessary measures. Next, we just have to wait for the test results.

The secretions are used for bacterial sowing. This is the germination of bacteria to a large colony in order to conduct antibiotic sensitivity experiments. This analysis allows you to choose the most effective drug.

Pathologies of a woman’s internal organs are determined using ultrasound. This way you can detect polycystic ovary syndrome, tumor, uterine polyp and other changes.

The presence of some infections is determined by antibodies in the blood. For example, HIV and hepatitis viruses, syphilis. A general analysis helps identify inflammation in the body. Special tests allow you to evaluate the level of hormones or the qualitative and quantitative composition of the blood.

Hysteroscopy

Sometimes you have to resort to examining the uterus and cervical canal from the inside using a special camera if ultrasound turns out to be insufficiently informative.

Attention! The hysteroscopy procedure requires careful preparation in the form of a number of tests and studies.

Treatment for yellow vaginal discharge

The doctor prescribes therapy individually, taking into account contraindications, the situation and the individual characteristics of the woman. Below we provide a list of standard appointments:

1. If yellow secretion occurs due to chlamydia, ureaplasmosis or mycoplasmosis, antibiotics capable of acting in the cell are needed. Doxycycline and Azithromycin are suitable.
2. Metronidazole and Tinidazole are prescribed for the treatment of trichomoniasis.
3. Ceftriaxone and Doxycycline are used for gonorrhea.
4. Inflammatory diseases of the appendages with purulent discharge require a combination of antibiotics, analgesics, vitamins, anti-inflammatory drugs, antihistamines, immunomodulators, and physiotherapy.
5. When a woman has candidiasis, antifungal antibiotics are prescribed. Drugs Diflucan, Pimafucin, Nystatin, Fluconazole.
6. The formations that caused the appearance of abnormal secretion are in most cases surgically removed.
7. Endocrine disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, require hormonal therapy. They use both complex drugs - Regulon, Novinet, Janine, and with one active ingredient - Provera, Duphaston, Norkolut.
8. For any colpitis, the vagina is sanitized with suppositories and vaginal tablets Hexicon, Terzhinan, Polizhinaks, etc.
9. Before installing a suppository, it is good to douche with an infusion or decoction of herbs, such as calendula or chamomile, to cleanse the vagina of discharge.
10. The infection must be treated in men too!
11. For cancerous formations in the cervix and uterine cavity, women are prescribed drugs that suppress the growth of cancer cells and stimulate the immune system, such as Methotrexate.

At the end of the course, control diagnostics are carried out to ensure the successful outcome of therapy. Otherwise, the treatment is adjusted.

Carefully! Self-prescribing hormonal drugs and antibiotics is very dangerous. Incorrect dosage, medication or duration of therapy will lead to the opposite result.

Common mistakes women make with pathological discharge

How often can you hear from gynecologist patients that they have been treating banal thrush for years. Today medicine copes well with infections and inflammatory diseases. All you need to do is do everything correctly, but women themselves make standard mistakes:

1. Douche before visiting a gynecologist. Once all the secretions are washed away, how can the analysis show a reliable picture? Before the examination, it is enough to wash the external genitalia.
2. Having been treated once by a doctor using the standard method, they continue to use it for any change in the secretion. It may seem to us that the symptoms are similar, but in reality the reason for what is happening is completely different.
3. Only traditional medicine is recognized. It is impossible to destroy gonococcus or trichomonas, treponema with any herbs. As a result of self-medication, the woman’s disease will simply enter the chronic stage.
4. They do not attach importance to therapy for the sexual partner. Even thrush is treated mutually by the couple, otherwise the man will again introduce candida into the vagina.
5. They trust the doctor unconditionally. Yes, sometimes it is better to check your health with another specialist. Therefore, it is so important to understand a little about medical concepts and terms in order to notice the illiteracy and negligence of the doctor, which also happens.