Why does white vaginal discharge turn yellow?
In general, yellowish vaginal white discharge may be caused by changes in the normal vaginal flora, improper diet, bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas vaginitis, cervicitis, and other factors. If any discomfort occurs, please seek medical advice promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Changes in normal vaginal flora
Various microorganisms exist within the vagina, forming a complex microecological balance. When this balance is slightly disturbed, such as during the menstrual cycle or after sexual intercourse, it may cause slight changes in the discharge color, appearing slightly yellowish. It is important to maintain external genital hygiene and avoid excessive cleaning inside the vagina to prevent disruption of the microecological balance.
2. Improper diet
Certain foods, such as spicy or greasy foods, may affect hormone levels or blood circulation in the body, indirectly causing changes in the color of vaginal discharge. Maintain a balanced diet, increase intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, and reduce consumption of spicy and oily foods.
3. Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is caused by mixed infections of Gardnerella vaginalis and certain anaerobic bacteria. It may cause increased vaginal discharge, appearing gray-white or yellowish, and may also be accompanied by symptoms such as itching and burning sensation in the external genital area. Treatment may include medications such as metronidazole tablets, levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, or ornidazole dispersible tablets, as directed by a physician.
4. Trichomonas vaginitis
Trichomonas vaginitis is caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis. Under the stimulation of inflammation, vaginal discharge may appear frothy and yellow-green, accompanied by odor, pain during sexual intercourse, and other symptoms. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as tinidazole tablets, metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets, or clindamycin phosphate vaginal gel.
5. Cervicitis
Cervicitis is mostly caused by pathogen infections, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis. These pathogens may trigger inflammatory reactions, causing congestion, swelling, and white blood cell infiltration of the cervical mucosa, disrupting the vaginal flora balance and promoting bacterial proliferation, thus causing the aforementioned symptoms. Patients may also experience increased vaginal discharge and postcoital bleeding. Patients may use medications such as Baofukang suppository, cefixime dispersible tablets, or Zhidai Xiaomai suppository under the guidance of a doctor.
In daily life, maintain good personal hygiene, change underwear regularly, and keep the external genital area clean and dry. Additionally, practice proper hygiene before and after sexual intercourse, and use condoms to reduce the risk of infection.