Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Normal vaginal discharge is typically white or clear and odorless. However, if the discharge has an unusual color or odor, it may be caused by the following conditions:

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1. Yeast Infection (Candidiasis)

Thick, white or yellowish discharge with a clumpy or curd-like appearance

Musty or yeasty odor

Vaginal itching or burning

Often associated with recent antibiotic use or decreased immune function

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2. Bacterial Vaginosis or Bacterial Infection

Yellowish or greenish discharge

Fishy odor, especially after sexual intercourse

If caused by gonorrhea, discharge may be dark yellow and accompanied by significant irritation or burning

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3. Trichomoniasis (Parasitic Infection)

Sexually transmitted infection

More common after menopause due to thinning of the vaginal lining, which increases susceptibility to infection and inflammation

Sour-smelling discharge with vaginal itching or burning

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4. Atrophic Vaginitis (Vaginal Dryness)

Clear or whitish discharge, which may be streaked with blood

Vaginal dryness, itching, and pain during intercourse

Common in postmenopausal women

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5. Cervical Cancer–Related Discharge

Yellowish-white discharge that may be mixed with blood

Often has a strong, unpleasant odor

May be accompanied by postcoital bleeding (bleeding after intercourse)