Normal vaginal discharge is a white, odorless fluid. Yellow discharge may indicate an underlying condition. Causes of yellow discharge include:
Cause 1: Yellow, watery discharge often results from necrosis of diseased tissue, commonly seen in submucosal tumors, cervical cancer, or fallopian tube cancer.
Cause 2: One of the most common causes is infection by Candida albicans, frequently seen in pregnant women and diabetic patients. Long-term use of broad-spectrum antibiotics can disrupt the normal vaginal flora, promoting fungal growth and increasing susceptibility to this condition. Individuals taking corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or those with autoimmune diseases are also prone to this condition. Vitamin B6 deficiency and chronic wasting diseases can lead to yellow vaginal discharge.
Young women wearing tight nylon pants may experience increased perineal moisture and temperature, creating a favorable environment for fungal growth. Primary symptoms of fungal infection include vaginal and vulvar itching, often accompanied by a local burning sensation. Typical discharge appears curd-like (cottage cheese-like) or slightly yellow and clumpy, with a faint odor, tightly adhering to the vaginal mucosa.
Cause 3 of yellow vaginal discharge: The most common cause is infection by Trichomonas vaginalis, an anaerobic protozoan parasite. It commonly inhabits the urogenital tract, primarily residing in the vagina in women, though it may also be found in the urethra, paraurethral glands, and bladder. In men, it typically colonizes the urethra and prostate.
Trichomoniasis is transmitted indirectly through shared baths, tubs, towels, swimming pools, toilets, clothing, medical instruments, or dressings. Its primary symptoms include increased discharge volume, vulvar and vaginal itching, burning, or pain. Characteristic discharge appears yellow-green, frothy, thin, and has a fishy odor.When inflammation involves the urethra, symptoms like urinary urgency and frequency may occur.
Cause 4 of Yellow Discharge: Common in elderly women who have been postmenopausal for many years. After menopause, ovarian function declines, leading to a lack of endogenous estrogen. This causes genital atrophy, thinning of the vaginal epithelium, and weakened local resistance, making it easier for pathogens to multiply and cause inflammation.