What causes itchy vulva with yellow and excessive vaginal discharge?

Generally, yellowish and increased vaginal discharge accompanied by vulvar itching may be caused by ovulation, sexual stimulation, vulvitis, bacterial vaginosis, cervicitis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical advice promptly to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Ovulation

During a woman's ovulation period, estrogen levels temporarily rise, stimulating the cervical and endometrial glands to secrete more mucus. This mucus mixes with vaginal discharge, significantly increasing its volume. The discharge becomes thin, transparent, and egg-white-like; in some women, it may appear slightly yellowish. When this discharge exits the body, it can irritate the skin of the vulva. Combined with the sensitivity of the vulvar area, this may cause mild vulvar itching. This is considered a normal physiological change. As the ovulation period ends, the amount of vaginal discharge gradually decreases, and the itching symptoms will also ease.

2. Sexual Stimulation

During sexual intercourse, friction and stimulation of the genital organs can irritate the vagina and cervix, causing an increase in secretions from these areas, leading to increased vaginal discharge that may appear slightly yellow. Additionally, the friction and secretions may irritate the skin of the vulva, making it more sensitive and potentially causing itching. Usually, after cleaning the vulva and resting for a short time, the vaginal discharge returns to normal, and the vulvar itching subsides or disappears.

3. Vulvitis

The vulvar skin may be directly invaded by external pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses, which can cause vulvitis. Once inflammation occurs on the vulvar skin, symptoms such as itching and redness may appear, often accompanied by increased and yellowish vaginal discharge. Treatment may include medications such as Fugan Kang (compound Sophora flavescens) wash, Nifuratel tablets, or An'aer Fumigation and Washing Liquid, as directed by a physician.

4. Bacterial Vaginosis

Imbalance of the normal vaginal flora, with excessive growth of harmful bacteria such as anaerobes, may lead to bacterial vaginosis. Under the stimulation of inflammation, the characteristics of vaginal discharge change, becoming increased in volume and yellowish in color. These harmful bacteria and their secretions may also irritate the vaginal and vulvar mucous membranes, causing itching. Treatment options may include vaginal suppositories such as Metronidazole vaginal tablets, Nifuratel tablets, or Nifuratel- Nystatin vaginal tablets, as advised by a doctor. Maintaining vaginal hygiene is essential to prevent worsening of the condition.

5. Cervicitis

The cervix may become infected by pathogens such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis, or may develop inflammation due to mechanical injuries from childbirth, miscarriage, or long-term chronic irritation. Inflammation stimulates the cervical mucosa to produce more inflammatory substances, which mix with vaginal discharge, increasing its volume and turning it yellowish. This inflammatory discharge irritates the skin of the vulva, causing itching. Some patients may also experience symptoms such as postcoital bleeding or lower abdominal pain. Treatment options may include medications such as Azithromycin capsules, Ganzheng Capsules (Butea superba), or Minocycline Hydrochloride capsules, as directed by a physician.

It is advisable to avoid alcohol consumption and eating spicy or seafood-based foods in daily life to prevent worsening of vulvar itching symptoms.