What Causes Green Vaginal Discharge?
Sep 25, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yan Ying
Introduction
1. Cervical disorders: Greenish vaginal discharge is often associated with cervical disease. Clinically, the two most common cervical conditions are cervical erosion and cervical inflammation.
2. Bacterial vaginosis: This is a major cause of greenish vaginal discharge.
3. Trichomoniasis: Greenish vaginal discharge may also result from trichomonas vaginitis, which can be treated effectively with topical medications.
Vaginal discharge (leukorrhea) is closely linked to a woman’s overall health. Normal vaginal discharge is typically a thick, milky-white substance. However, bacterial invasion of the genital tract can cause changes in the color or consistency of the discharge. If you notice your discharge turning green, do not ignore it—this may signal an underlying gynecological condition requiring medical attention. So, what causes green vaginal discharge? Below, we address this question.
Causes of Green Vaginal Discharge
1. Cervical Disorders
Green vaginal discharge may indicate cervical disease. Clinically, two common cervical conditions are cervicitis and cervical ectropion (formerly termed “cervical erosion”). Additionally, chronic cervicitis and endometritis may also result in green-tinged discharge. In patients with cervicitis, the primary symptoms include increased volume of discharge, which becomes greenish and purulent—thick and viscous. Therefore, it is essential to wash underwear separately, minimize use of sanitary pads, and avoid frequent use of external vaginal cleansers, as these may disrupt the natural microbial balance of the vulva.
2. Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is a major cause of green vaginal discharge. It results primarily from a mixed infection involving *Gardnerella vaginalis* and various anaerobic bacteria. The presence of these pathogens severely disrupts the vaginal microecological balance. Consequently, vaginal secretions increase in volume; the discharge turns green and emits a characteristic fishy odor, often accompanied by pruritus vulvae (vulvar itching).
3. Trichomoniasis
Green vaginal discharge may also be caused by trichomoniasis—a sexually transmitted infection due to *Trichomonas vaginalis*. This condition can be effectively treated with topical antiparasitic medications. Notably, *Gardnerella*-associated vaginitis is also clinically referred to as Haemophilus vaginalis vaginitis (though modern taxonomy classifies the causative organism as *Gardnerella vaginalis*, not *Haemophilus*). Women with *Gardnerella* vaginitis commonly present with vulvar erythema, swelling, and congestion; the discharge appears greenish, and mild vaginal erythema and edema may be observed, along with a foul, fishy odor emanating from the vaginal secretions.
The above outlines the main causes of green vaginal discharge. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
