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Published on: 3/17/2025

What Are the Potential Causes of Frothy Vaginal Discharge?

Frothy vaginal discharge is most often linked to an infection called trichomoniasis, but a few other factors might also cause it.

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Explanation

Frothy discharge means the fluid looks bubbly or frothy. One common cause is trichomoniasis. This is an infection from a tiny germ called Trichomonas vaginalis, which can make the discharge look frothy and sometimes come with itching or irritation. Besides trichomoniasis, other infections that disturb the normal balance of germs in your vagina might occasionally lead to unusual discharge patterns, including frothy discharge. Your body usually has many good germs that keep everything balanced, but when the balance changes because of an infection, the discharge may look different. Doctors can check by doing tests to see which germ is causing the change. While frothy discharge is most often related to trichomoniasis, if you notice any discomfort, itching, burning, or changes in your discharge, it is a good idea to talk with a healthcare provider. They will help figure out the cause and suggest the right treatment so that you feel better and your body stays healthy.

(References)

  • Bishop GB. Vaginal Discharge. In: Walker HK, Hall WD, Hurst JW, editors. Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd edition. Boston: Butterworths; 1990. Chapter 172. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK281/

  • Venugopal S, Gopalan K, Devi A, Kavitha A. Epidemiology and clinico-investigative study of organisms causing vaginal discharge. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2017 Jan-Jun;38(1):69-75. doi: 10.4103/0253-7184.203433. PMID: 28442807; PMCID: PMC5389219.

  • Sim M, Logan S, Goh LH. Vaginal discharge: evaluation and management in primary care. Singapore Med J. 2020 Jun;61(6):297-301. doi: 10.11622/smedj.2020088. PMID: 32754764; PMCID: PMC7905126.

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