Vaginal discharge is a normal physiological response in women. When healthy, it should be clear or slightly milky white with no odor. So what does slightly yellow discharge indicate? Experts note that many gynecological conditions manifest as abnormal discharge in their early stages. Yellowish discharge, for instance, may signal a potential vaginal infection.
Normal discharge is milky white or clear, with a faint fishy odor or none at all. Its volume and consistency are influenced by estrogen and progesterone levels in the body, fluctuating cyclically with menstruation—increasing or decreasing, thinning or thickening. When discharge appears slightly yellow, consider the following potential conditions:
1. Senile vaginitis: Typically presents with yellowish watery or purulent discharge, increased volume with an odor, blood-tinged discharge, lower abdominal and vaginal heaviness, and a burning sensation in the vagina.
2. Trichomoniasis: Yellow or yellow-green discharge, thin to thick consistency, abundant and frothy, accompanied by vulvar itching and a foul odor.
3. Candidal Vaginitis: Symptoms include yellow or white discharge, typically curd-like or cottage cheese-like in texture, accompanied by vulvar itching. The discharge is often thick and sticky, though it may occasionally be thin and slightly malodorous.Primary symptoms include yellowish, increased, and purulent discharge, often odorless.
In summary, yellowish vaginal discharge may conceal various conditions, and its potential harm to women—particularly cervical erosion—should not be overlooked. Early medical examination is recommended for timely treatment.