Causes of yellow vaginal discharge
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Common Infectious Causes of Yellow Vaginal Discharge
Yellow vaginal discharge is most often linked to infections caused by bacteria, parasites, or fungi. The most common infectious causes include bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and, less frequently, vulvovaginal candidiasis. These conditions can present with additional symptoms such as odor, itching, burning, and irritation, but the color and consistency of the discharge are key clues for diagnosis 234567910.
Bacterial Vaginosis and Yellow Discharge
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the leading cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age. BV occurs when the normal balance of vaginal bacteria is disrupted, allowing overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Bacteroides, and Mycoplasma hominis. BV often presents with a copious, foul-smelling, yellow or grey discharge, sometimes accompanied by mild symptoms like burning or itching. Up to half of women with BV may not have symptoms, but when present, yellow discharge is a common feature 2357910.
Trichomoniasis and Yellow Vaginal Discharge
Trichomoniasis, caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, is another important cause of yellow vaginal discharge. The discharge is typically heavy, yellow or greenish, and may be frothy. It is often associated with vulvar and vaginal soreness, abnormal odor, and itching. Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection and can be confirmed by laboratory tests such as wet-mount microscopy or nucleic acid amplification testing 167910.
Vulvovaginal Candidiasis
While vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection) most commonly causes a thick, white, "cottage cheese-like" discharge, it can sometimes present with a yellowish-white discharge, especially when mixed with other infections or in certain individuals. This discharge is usually accompanied by itching, burning, and irritation 47910.
Less Common and Non-Infectious Causes
Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis
Desquamative inflammatory vaginitis is a less common, non-infectious cause of yellow, thick vaginal discharge. It is associated with intense vaginal redness and can be easily treated once diagnosed, though it requires microscopic examination for confirmation .
Other Considerations
Noninfectious causes, such as atrophic vaginitis (especially in postmenopausal women), can also lead to abnormal discharge, but yellow discharge is more typically linked to infectious etiologies. Mixed infections or self-treatment without proper diagnosis can complicate the clinical picture, making laboratory confirmation important for effective management 4810.
Conclusion
Yellow vaginal discharge is most commonly caused by bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis, with occasional cases due to vulvovaginal candidiasis or non-infectious conditions like desquamative inflammatory vaginitis. Accurate diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation and laboratory testing to identify the specific cause and guide appropriate treatment, helping to prevent recurrence and complications 12345678+2 MORE.
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