Can yellow, sour-smelling vaginal discharge without itching heal on its own?

Leukorrhea is a vaginal secretion commonly found in women. Whether yellowish leukorrhea with an acidic odor but no itching can resolve spontaneously depends on the underlying cause. If it results solely from poor hygiene without triggering gynecological inflammation, spontaneous recovery is possible. However, if caused by inflammatory conditions in the vagina, cervix, or other areas, self-resolution is unlikely and medical treatment is typically required. The details are as follows:

If yellowish discharge with an acidic smell is due to poor hygiene habits—such as infrequent changing of underwear or inadequate sexual hygiene—special treatment may not be necessary. In such cases, improving daily habits, including frequent underwear changes, regular bathing, maintaining sexual hygiene, and avoiding sanitary pads, usually leads to gradual symptom relief and eventual resolution. During this period, maintaining a balanced diet is important; spicy and irritating foods should be avoided until symptoms disappear.

If the yellow discharge with an acidic odor is severe, it is often caused by certain gynecological inflammations, such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or cervicitis. These inflammatory conditions tend to be complex and persistent, rarely resolving on their own. Proper medical treatment is needed for gradual recovery—for example, taking medications like metronidazole tablets, tinidazole tablets, or clindamycin capsules as prescribed by a doctor. Personal hygiene must also be maintained during treatment. Delayed or inadequate treatment may worsen the condition and potentially affect fertility.

It is recommended to first visit a hospital for examination to determine the exact cause of abnormal discharge, then follow the doctor's advice to develop an individualized treatment plan. Sexual intercourse should be avoided during treatment to prevent cross-infection.