Published on: 3/17/2025
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.
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)
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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.
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