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Published on: 3/17/2025

What Could Cause White Foamy Discharge in Females?

White foamy discharge may be caused by an infection, most commonly trichomoniasis, which is caused by a tiny parasite.

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Explanation

Your body normally makes clear or white discharge to help clean and protect the vagina. When the discharge becomes white and foamy (or frothy), it can be a sign of an infection. One common infection that causes this kind of discharge is trichomoniasis. Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. In this infection, the discharge can look frothy and sometimes may have a yellow or green tint, though sometimes it appears white. Along with the foamy discharge, you might also experience itching, irritation, or discomfort in the vaginal area. It is important to note that while trichomoniasis is the most common cause of frothy discharge, other types of vaginitis can sometimes change the consistency of your discharge too. If you notice this kind of change, it is a good idea to see a healthcare provider. They can perform tests to find out the cause of the abnormal discharge and give you the right treatment so you can feel better and keep your body 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/

  • Carr PL, Felsenstein D, Friedman RH. Evaluation and management of vaginitis. J Gen Intern Med. 1998 May;13(5):335-46. doi: 10.1046/j.1525-1497.1998.00101.x. PMID: 9613891; PMCID: PMC1496957.

  • Alenizy HK, AlQahtani MH, Aleban SA, Almuwallad RI, Binsuwaidan LA, Alabdullah DW, Althomali AE. Knowledge and Practice Regarding Abnormal Vaginal Discharge Among Adolescent Females in Riyadh City: An Observational Study. Cureus. 2024 Mar 22;16(3):e56719. doi: 10.7759/cureus.56719. PMID: 38650786; PMCID: PMC11034890.

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