Doctors Note Logo

Back

Published on: 3/17/2025

Is Yellow-Green Vaginal Discharge a Sign of an Infection?

Yellow-green vaginal discharge can be a sign of an infection, which means your body is fighting off germs that are changing the usual clear or white discharge.

answer background

Explanation

When vaginal discharge turns yellow-green, it might mean that your body is reacting to an infection. Normally, your vagina produces clear or white fluid to keep itself clean and healthy. But if germs like bacteria or other microorganisms cause an infection, the discharge can change color. Infections like bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or other infections such as Mycoplasma genitalium can lead to yellow-green discharge. This change in color happens because your body's immune system is fighting off the bacteria, which can lead to extra white cells and fluids mixing with the normal secretions. Sometimes, you may notice other signs of infection like discomfort, itching, or an unusual smell. If you see yellow-green discharge, it's important to check with a healthcare provider. They can perform tests to find out which germ is causing the problem and guide you on the right treatment to help restore your natural balance and health.

(References)

  • Prasad D, Parween S, Kumari K, Singh N. Prevalence, Etiology, and Associated Symptoms of Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy in Women Seen in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bihar. Cureus. 2021 Jan 14;13(1):e12700. doi: 10.7759/cureus.12700. PMID: 33614308; PMCID: PMC7883588.

  • Amrin SS, Lakshmi GJ. Vaginal discharge: The diagnostic enigma. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2021 Jan-Jun;42(1):38-45. doi: 10.4103/ijstd.IJSTD_92_18. Epub 2020 Jul 31. PMID: 34765936; PMCID: PMC8579582.

  • McGowin CL, Anderson-Smits C. Mycoplasma genitalium: an emerging cause of sexually transmitted disease in women. PLoS Pathog. 2011 May;7(5):e1001324. doi: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1001324. Epub 2011 May 26. PMID: 21637847; PMCID: PMC3102684.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Learn more about symptoms

Abnormal vaginal discharge

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom check

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get an free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes, and the provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical practice. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.