The intimate region and sexual health are still subjects permeated by taboos.
Many women are ashamed to talk or even seek medical attention when it comes to the health of the sexual and reproductive system.
Lack of information can cause confusion regarding intimate care, sexually transmitted diseases and vaginal infections, which in some cases can trigger vaginal discharge.
However, not all discharge is a warning sign.
There is some confusion between the natural secretions in the vagina and discharge. In fact, the whitish or transparent fluid, with little or no odor, is, in general, natural and an indication of good intimate health.
But if there is discomfort in the intimate area, such as pain, burning, itching, color change or odor of the secretion, it is time to see a doctor.
That’s because the vagina naturally contains bacteria that make up the vaginal flora. The production and secretion of mucus helps to humidify, lubricate and clean the vaginal canal, preventing or hindering the proliferation of infections.
Therefore, paying attention to the body’s signals is fundamental to good health.
Contents
What is yellow discharge?
Throughout the day, it is common (and natural) for the vaginal region to produce secretions that tend to accumulate in panties or underwear. These released fluids are composed of dead cells, lubrication and cleaning of the intimate canal, that is, the secretions are not signs of diseases or infections.
In general, these fluids are whitish or transparent, slightly viscous or more liquid. However, there are factors that alter the color, quantity and consistency of the discharge, which may indicate pathologies or not.
When the color of the secretion is more yellow, you need to pay attention to the body’s signs, as there are chances of it being caused by infections.
The yellow discharge may have a more greenish or pus yellow hue, increasing the indications of pathologies, such as STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).
In addition, if it is accompanied by a strong or acidic smell (reminiscent of the smell of fish), pain in the region below the navel, burning or itching, it is necessary to have a gynecological consultation.
When there is no pain or irritation, the slightly yellowish discharge may indicate changes in the vaginal bacterial flora or incorrect hygiene habits.
It is also necessary to remember that the use of intimate products, such as soaps and lubricants, can cause changes in the secretion.
The yellowish tones can vary in intensity, being lighter or more greenish.
The associated symptoms (odor, itching and change in consistency) may indicate different causes, the most common being trichomoniasis , bacterial vaginosis, gonorrhea and chlamydia.
In general, the cause of the secretion changes are changes in the vaginal flora, leaving the intimate region more sensitive to bacteria and infections.
However, yellowish discharge is easily treated with the use of specific anti-inflammatories and antifungals, and they tend to improve in a few days.
The discharge can also occur in men, but it is always a pathological indication.
Most of the time, male secretion is caused by an STD (sexually transmitted disease) and, in a few cases, the cause is an allergy (to products or tissues, for example).
The intimate structure
Generally, we use the term vagina to refer to the entire intimate region, without great specifications.
But in reality, the vagina is just a channel about 10cm long that makes the connection between the vulva and the cervix.
The outer region, which is usually generalized as a vagina, is called the vulva and comprises the pubis mount, the labia majora and minora, the clitoris, the bulb of the vestibule and the vestibular glands.
The vaginal tube is flexible, capable of stretching or shrinking when necessary (for example, during penetrative sex or during childbirth).
Internally, the female anatomy is composed of the vagina, uterus, tubes and ovaries.
But the vaginal canal can also be the entry of microorganisms that cause diseases and infections, with the need for constant protection in the region.
To reduce the risk of infections, the vagina region has a more acidic pH (hydrogen potential), between 3.8 to 4.5.
That is, acidity acts as a barrier, preventing harmful agents from infecting the body.
The pH of the vagina
A simple way to understand the action of the vagina flora is to think of it as a balance that needs to be in perfect balance to protect the region.
With one of the highest concentrations of bacteria in the human body, just behind the colon (intestine), the vaginal flora has a very intelligent synchronization between its microorganisms, making the region acidic and inhospitable for the proliferation of bacteria harmful to health.
Acidity is produced by Döderlein’s bacilli, which live on the wall of the vagina and use cell glucose as food, transforming it into lactic acid (ie, lactobacilli).
When something disturbs this organic functioning, there are chances that harmful microorganisms will settle in the intimate region and trigger uncomfortable symptoms.
It is important to remember that good habits of hygiene and intimate care help to avoid these changes, but they are not always enough, as some intimate problems are not related only to the amount of bath.
In fact, the use of intimate soaps or sanitizing products can affect the constitution of the vaginal flora and favor irritation and itching, especially when they are used frequently.
Eating habits, hormonal changes, pregnancy, menstrual cycle, medication use, drop in immunity, diabetes , kidney failure and even stress can trigger changes in the pH (acidity) of the vagina.
Normal vaginal secretions
The vagina has a natural moisture that can be altered by several factors, such as hormonal rates, sexual stimulation and emotional factors.
When the liquid or fluid that accumulates in the panties has little or no odor, whitish or transparent appearance, there is no danger: this discharge is nothing more than a physiological fluid, formed by dead cells, bacteria from the vaginal flora and mucous secretions.
The mucosa will produce natural lubrication when the woman is aroused, in addition to secretions when she is menstruating, in a fertile period or pregnant, and may increase the amount and appearance of the fluid, becoming more liquid or more whitish.
These liquids or substances eliminated by the vagina are mainly composed of water, albumin (which is a protein), white blood cells and mucin (a substance that gives viscosity to the liquid), being very close to the composition of the blood serum.
Unlike what many people still think, when intimate health is adequate, the vagina is one of the cleanest and most free of harmful agents in the woman’s body.
In addition, different factors can interfere with the appearance, quantity and color of the secretions, such as a more stressful day or the beginning of the fertile period.
But if there are strong odors, itching, burning or irritation, it may be a sign that something is wrong.
Is it normal to have yellowish discharge?
In general, the yellow discharge can indicate an infection, but it depends on other factors, such as the presence of symptoms and the intensity of the secretion. Sometimes, immunity drops or the use of medications can affect the color of the secretion and, therefore, do not indicate a serious condition.
It is important to remember that vaginal secretions are normal and necessary for the maintenance of female intimate health. however, changes in color, smell or quantity of discharge should always be evaluated by gynecologists.
So it can be normal, but it can be a sign of some infection or change.
Late menstruation: can yellow discharge be pregnancy?
It can, as long as it is not accompanied by other symptoms or signs, such as pain, burning, itching and intense odor.
Although the secretions related to pregnancy are, in general, white or transparent, in some cases the yellow ones can also be an indication.
What types of yellow discharge?
Although not the only sign to be observed, the shade of the yellow discharge can give clues about the causes. In general, yellowish discharge is related to infections. The frequently observed stains are:
Greenish-yellow discharge
When the secretion is greenish yellow, it can be a sign of trichomoniasis, which is an infection caused by protozoa and sexually transmitted. Generally, the fluid is accompanied by strong odors and burning when peeing.
Grayish yellow
The discharge has a color similar to pus, slightly gray, suggesting chlamydia. Some women may experience discomfort when peeing and bleeding during penetration, but only 30% of infected patients have symptoms.
Yellowish and abundant discharge
When there is a noticeable change in the amount of secretion, which begins to be more intense and more yellow, it may be indicative of gardnerella. The infection may have a strong odor, burning in the region and some cases are accompanied by bleeding.
The thrush , which is a yeast infection, can cause whitish discharge and, in some cases, yellowish, with intense itching and burning, representing most of the gynecological infections.
Pasty yellow discharge
Some color changes may be milder. That is, the discharge is a light yellowish tone, closer to white.
In these cases, it may be that the secretion is not indicative of a problem, but only hormonal changes or use of some medication.
If it is not accompanied by pain, burning and there is not a great flow, in general, the discharge can be normal.
Dark yellow discharge
Sometimes, the color of the discharge is more similar to brown or a very intense yellow.
This may be due to the presence of blood, which makes the secretion darker and suggests the presence of some injury (in the cervix, in the vaginal mucous membranes or in the tubes, for example).
But common factors like remnants of menstrual blood can also be the source of the change.
When the discharge is more yellow and intense, it can be a sign of infection, such as trichomoniasis or chlamydia.
Read more: Brown menstruation and little flow: what can it be?
Smelly yellow secretion
The strong odor is indicative of infection, but when the secretion has no smell and is not accompanied by pain, it may just be a physiological discharge.
In other words, it is natural to the organism, but for some reason it has undergone a color change.
Sometimes, the use of medications, changes in diet or immune conditions can be the cause.
Is it normal to have yellow discharge before menstruation?
If the secretion does not have an intense yellow color and is accompanied by other symptoms or odor, it is possible that it is just normal mucus in the body. It is worth noting the regularity with which it occurs and keeping consultations and gynecological exams up to date.
Causes: what can be yellow discharge?
The presence of yellow discharge is usually a sign of infection that occurs, most of the time, by changes in the pH of the vaginal flora.
If the acidity of the vagina is altered, harmful microorganisms are more likely to penetrate the canal and proliferate, causing infections and triggering symptoms.
Among the diseases or factors that can cause yellow discharge, are:
Contraceptive
Contraceptives, despite being an option for those who want to avoid pregnancy, can bring health risks. This is because the drug is formulated based on estrogen, progesterone or a combination of the two, which are hormones capable of interfering in the constitution of the vaginal flora.
In general, it is candidiasis that is most associated with changes due to the use of contraceptives, which may cause white and slightly yellowish discharge.
Every contraceptive method must be agreed between the patient and the gynecologist, seeking to adjust the treatment and reduce the impacts on the body.
If the patient’s choice is to use the pill, it is necessary to test the options. The pharmaceutical market has several brands and types of contraceptives (21 days, 28 days or continuous use, for example).
Some can cause more side effects than others. So it takes patience to find the one that best suits each woman.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis is an infection caused by the Candida fungus, also known as Candida albicans .
It is one of the most common causes of vaginal infection, because the fungus is naturally present in healthy vaginal flora. But if there is a drop in immunity, candida can proliferate in a way that is harmful to the body.
The use of antibiotics , the presence of diabetes (especially when poorly controlled), menstruation, the use of contraceptives, pregnancy and diseases that reduce immunity can facilitate the development of the infection.
In women, the condition affects up to 3 in 4 women, at least once during their lives.
Symptoms involve itching, burning, swelling of the labia majora, mucosal sores, redness and discharge. Although most patients have white secretions, they can acquire a yellowish-white hue.
Less common, candidiasis can occur in men as well and the occurrence is 2 cases for every 10 men.
Infection is not a sexually transmitted disease, but during treatment, the use of condoms is recommended to prevent the transmission of fungi.
Chlamydia
Among the sexually transmitted diseases with the highest occurrence worldwide is chlamydia, which is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis . Contamination can occur in men and women, in addition to being transmitted from the mother to the fetus at the time of delivery.
The infection mainly affects the urethra and genitals, but it can also reach the anal region and the pharynx, triggering lung diseases and even resulting in infertility.
Symptoms are not always manifested in the infection, but when they occur they may involve burning or pain when peeing, pain in the belly, increased bladder functions (increasing the amount of urine) and yellowish secretions.
Prevention is done through the use of condoms and the treatment consists of the use of antibiotics.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a genital infection that can affect men and women, but is more prevalent in females. The disease is caused by the protozoan Trichomonas Vaginalis that is transmitted during sexual intercourse or in intimate contact with the infected person’s secretions.
Sometimes, the disease can take time to show symptoms, taking months for the patient to notice any disorder in the body.
Among the main symptoms that can occur are yellowish or greenish-yellow discharge, itching, irritation of the vaginal mucosa, strong and unpleasant odor, pain and discomfort when peeing.
Treatment consists of the use of intimate creams and oral medications.
Gonorreia
Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae , and is transmitted through sexual intercourse or from mother to child during childbirth. The proliferation of the bacteria can occur in the mouth, throat, eyes, anus and, mainly, in Organs sexual organs.
The main symptoms involve urethritis (which is inflammation of the urethra ), causing a discharge and burning sensation when you pee.
In women, gonorrhea may not show many symptoms, with approximately half of patients not seeing signs of infection, such as itching, pain during sex or discharge.
In men, the symptoms are quite frequent and manifest in up to 90% of patients. Treatment consists of the administration of antibiotics, usually in a single dose.
Bacterial vaginosis
Although, in the vast majority of cases, the infection causes white discharge , the secretion may take on a more yellowish hue. The picture is accompanied by itching, burning, burning and intense smell in the intimate region.
The infection is not sexually transmitted and is usually caused by changes in immunity and vaginal flora.
As it has very similar signs with candidiasis, infections can be confused. But vaginosis is caused by bacteria, while candidiasis is caused by fungi.
Read more: What can be milky white discharge?
Late menstruation: can yellow discharge be pregnancy?
The yellow discharge can be a sign of pregnancy, as long as it is not accompanied by other symptoms or signs, such as pain, burning, itching and intense odor.
Although the secretions related to pregnancy are, in general, white or transparent, in some cases the yellow ones can also be an indication.
Streaming
The yellow discharge is a symptom or sign, usually, of some infection. When the secretion is caused by diseases such as chlamydia, trichomoniasis and gonorrhea, transmission occurs during sex, with intimate contact.
In candidiasis, there is no transmission, but a drop in the body’s immunity or changes in vaginal pH that favor the proliferation of agents.
It is also important to note that the discharge may take on a slightly yellow color and not necessarily be a pathological change. In this case, therefore, there are no forms of transmission.
Risk factors
Some behaviors or habits can favor changes in intimate health, including:
Having unprotected sex
There are several sexually transmitted diseases that do not always show observable signs or symptoms. That is, it is possible that your partner is infected and also does not know. Therefore, the use of condoms during sex is essential.
Some diseases can be transmitted only by the contact of fluids with the genital region, without necessarily penetration or direct contact with the organ. So using condoms in all types of sex prevents STD transmission and prevents yellow discharge.
Drops in immunity
Low immunity can favor infections and contamination, which can result in candidiasis, for example.
When the immune system is weakened, there are changes in the control and production of agents in the body, resulting in a higher concentration of Candida fungi (which are naturally present in the body) and then triggering the infection.
Diseases or the use of medications that interfere with pH balance, such as contraceptives and antibiotics, alter the fight against harmful agents, causing yellow discharge.
Family history
Some sexually transmitted infections can be acquired during delivery, if the mother is a carrier.
If the person becomes aware that there are cases in the family of STDs, especially in the siblings and in the mother, it is recommended to consult a specialist, as the symptoms may take time to manifest.
Hormonal contraceptives
The use of hormonal contraceptives can change the pH of the intimate region, favoring vaginal infection.
It is necessary to start the treatment under the guidance of a gynecologist, looking for the safest methods for the patient.
What are the symptoms of yellowish discharge?
Yellow discharge does not cause symptoms, as it is itself a sign or symptom. In general, when it is related to an infection or alteration of the body, the yellowish mucus may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as burning, itching, abdominal pain, etc.
However, sometimes it is just a natural fluid, due to hormonal changes, – in this case, it usually has a light yellow color, with no odor and no related symptoms.
When it occurs in men, discharge is always a sign of infection. Generally, the patient does not notice a strong odor, as the amount of discharge is small.
How is the diagnosis made?
The most suitable professional to determine the causes of yellow discharge is the gynecologist , urologist and, in the case of pregnant women, the obstetrician .
When carrying out the consultation, the doctor will make a survey of the patient’s symptoms, especially regarding the duration of the discharge and the presence of associated symptoms, following with the physical evaluation and, when necessary, requesting laboratory tests to identify the causes of the discharge.
Exams
The diagnosis is confirmed by examining the patient with clinical and laboratory methods. Sometimes, laboratory tests may not be necessary, but investigating the patient’s history is critical at all times.
Among the most recurrent exams are:
Clinical examination
The consultation with the gynecologist needs to be frank for the diagnosis to be made correctly. The patient’s history is essential for investigating the origin or the causative agent of the discharge. Therefore, there are some important aspects during the consultation, such as:
Runny nose in children
Generally, the discharge seen in girls in the infant stage can be caused by poor intimate hygiene, which favors the proliferation of bacteria, or foreign bodies in contact with the vagina (which may include small objects or food, for example).
In addition, it is necessary for the doctor to consider sexual abuse as a transmission factor for infections and STDs.
Does the discharge have an odor?
The strong smell of the vagina can be indicative of infectious diseases, such as trichomoniasis. Despite the correct hygiene and intimate care, the odor remains intense. The patient must report if there has been a change in the smell of the vagina.
Is it itchy or burning?
It is necessary for the patient to observe if there are any discomfort during the day, when peeing or having sexual intercourse. Infections can be accompanied by itching and burning, as if the region of the vulva (outside of the vagina) is burning.
The menstrual cycle
During the month, the intimate region shows variations in pH. When a woman is menstruating, the tendency is for the vagina to become less acidic, favoring trichomoniasis infection and bacterial vaginosis.
Candidiasis is facilitated when the region is more acidic, which occurs just before menstruation. During menstrual periods, it is normal for changes in the appearance and quantity of secretions to occur.
Therefore, observing the appearance of the secretion and other symptoms during the month is important to rule out hormonal factors, for example.
Has the patient already started sex life?
Patients who have sex are more susceptible to vaginal infections. However, even virgin women can develop candidiasis, for example.
There are still girls who feel inhibited from informing the doctor about their sex life, even when unprotected sex occurs. This can impair or delay the diagnosis. It is important to remember that the consultation and information between the patient and the professional are private, being legally guaranteed by doctor-patient confidentiality.
Medications and habits
Some drugs can interfere with the flora and pH of the vagina, such as antibiotics and contraceptives. It is necessary to report the medications used, even in single doses ( morning pill , for example).
In addition, hygiene habits can also favor changes in the intimate region. It is worth remembering that it is not only the incorrect hygiene that causes imbalances, but the use of panty protectors, intimate showers and vaginal soaps can also alter and impair the acidity of the region.
Physical exam
The medical professional will assess the genitals by observing the outermost layer (vulva), and vaginal touch and specular examination (which is the evaluation of the vagina tube) may be necessary.
It is noteworthy that touch exams are performed only on patients who have already had sexual intercourse.
When the woman is a virgin, the doctor will only do external observation of the region. Some of the aspects observed are swelling ( edema ) and redness (or irritation) of the external part.
In some cases, candidiasis may have lesions on the mucosa of the vulva, with small sores similar to thrush. There may be a high presence of secretion, with a more liquid or denser consistency (usually adhered to the vaginal wall).
In addition, some infections may have a strong odor, but with little discharge, making the patient not always associate with a health problem.
When yellowish discharge is associated with a strong smell, the patient is more likely to have some bacterial infection.
Complementary exams
Some tests may be requested to assist in the diagnosis, facilitating the professional to determine the origin of the discharge or, even, following the evolution of the treatment. Between them:
Vaginal pH measurement
The exam is quite simple and quick, despite being invasive. To measure the pH of the vagina, a paper tape, which has sensors, is inserted into the wall of the vagina, leaving it for 1 minute. After that time, the tape shows the pH value of the intimate region, indicating changes in balance.
When the pH is more basic (between 5 and 6), there is a greater tendency to be a trichomoniasis infection. The more acidic pH (between 4 and 4.5) predisposes to candidiasis infection.
Microscopy
The examination consists of the evaluation using a microscope of a sample of the discharge. The examination makes it possible to identify infectious agents or the absence of lactobacilli (which are the natural bacteria in the vaginal flora).
During the analysis, the compound KOH 10% can be added, which will destroy some cellular elements and, if there is an intense and foul odor release, the diagnosis points to bacterial vaginosis (which is an infection by bacteria).
Tracking other STDs
It is always necessary to consider the presence of sexually transmitted diseases, especially when the diagnosis of trichomoniasis, genital herpes and cervicitis is confirmed. In this case, blood tests for syphilis , HIV and hepatitis B can be ordered through blood tests.
Is there a cure?
-Yeah . Yellow discharge is a sign usually caused by vaginal infections. The condition can be treated and, in a short time, shows complete improvements.
Treatment: how to eliminate yellow discharge?
The treatment of yellow discharge consists, first, in the correct identification of the cause so that the prescribed drugs are efficient.
In general, treatment involves the use of antibiotics, usually in a single dose and, if necessary, the use of intimate creams, until the total improvement of symptoms (such as itching, burning and the discharge itself).
Treatment for candidiasis is short, for between 1 and 3 days in most cases.
The relief of symptoms is quickly noticed, but one must be aware of recurrent candidiasis, which occurs more than 4 times a year. In this case, it is necessary to investigate the triggering causes and adapt the treatment.
Chlamydia and gonorrhea are treated by administering single-dose antibiotics.
After starting treatment, it is recommended that sexual activities are avoided and that the partner receives the medication as well.
For trichomoniasis, treatment can be with antibiotics for 7 days or a single dose. As some patients may not have symptoms or organic manifestations, it is necessary that the partner or partner of the patient do the treatment together.
Medicines: what is the remedy for yellow discharge?
The medications will depend on the cause of the discharge and the causes. Often, infections can be treated with antifungal or antibacterial drugs. If infection is found, creams and pills can be used.
Among the most suitable drugs for the treatment of candidiasis are:
- Fluconazole 150mg: single dose;
- Itraconazole 200mg: 2 dosages;
- Ketoconazole 200mg: 2 times a day, for 5 days.
In addition, topical treatment (such as vaginal creams) can be combined, including ointments or creams such as:
- Butoconazole for 5 days;
- Fenticonazole for 5 days;
- Isoconazole for 5 days;
- Miconazole between 7 and 10 days;
- Terconazol durante 7 dias;
- Tioconazole for 5 days.
Chlamydia can be treated with the administration of:
- Azithromycin in a single dose;
- Doxycyclin , 2 times a day, for 7 days.
- Erythromycin for 7 days;
- Tetracycline for 7 days.
It is still possible to administer ofloxacin for 7 days, but the drug is contraindicated for pregnant patients, who are breastfeeding or under 18.
The treatment of trichomoniasis consists of the use of metronidazole of 2mg in a single dose or 250mg, 3 times a day, for 7 days, or tinidazole in a single dose.
For gonorrhea, among the drugs that can be administered, are:
- Ciprofloxacin single dose;
- Ofloxacin single dose;
- Single dose ceftriaxone .
If the patient is diagnosed with gonorrhea and chlamydia, the Ministry of Health recommends administering a dose of ciprofloxacin together with a dose of azithromycin, or using doxycycline for 7 days.
Attention!
NEVER self-medicate or stop using a medication without first consulting a doctor. Only he will be able to tell which medication, dosage and duration of treatment is the most suitable for his specific case. The information contained in this website is only intended to inform, not in any way intended to replace the guidance of a specialist or serve as a recommendation for any type of treatment. Always follow the instructions on the package insert and, if symptoms persist, seek medical or pharmaceutical advice.
Living together
Yellow discharge is usually a sign of disorders in the body and therefore needs to be investigated.
During life, it is normal for women to have vaginal secretions, which are triggered by several factors, such as menstrual cycle, changes in immunity, diet and hygiene habits.
But it is also important to remember that secretions can still change color or odor when they come into contact with tissues or the external environment.
That’s right, sometimes vaginal discharge is a whitish or transparent fluid, but it has been exposed to the external environment, tissue or chemical components and, therefore, can have its appearance altered.
If it is found that the discharge has a pathological cause, that is, caused by an infection, the problem needs to be addressed. That is why it is necessary to be attentive to the body’s signals, seeking information from gynecologist professionals.
During the recovery period, it is ideal to avoid sexual intercourse, even with the use of condoms.
Care with food and hydration cannot be overlooked, as they directly impact the body’s response to antibiotics.
If the diet is poor, the immune system may weaken, causing a slower or ineffective response to treatment.
In fact, the correct use of medications is essential to eliminate the infectious agent, but the indiscriminate use of antibiotics can favor the mutation of the agents, making the treatment less and less efficient.
During the treatment days, the patient may need to use intravaginal creams or ointments, causing the sensation of humidity to be accentuated and causing discomfort.
Therefore, it is recommended that the woman use light fabrics that allow the breathing of the intimate region, avoiding moisture due to sweat or excessive heat.
Physical activities should also be reduced or avoided, so that sweat does not accentuate the irritation of the intimate area.
Prognosis
If the diagnosis is made correctly and the treatment follows the medical recommendations, the tendency is that the discharge, along with the causing infection, will be eliminated in a few days.
When there are associated symptoms, they tend to subside quickly as well.
Complications and risks of yellowish discharge
In general, the complications of infections that cause yellow discharge present higher risks for pregnant women.
This is because the chances of having an abortion are higher and the baby may have an affected development, being born with low weight.
It is also possible that sexually transmitted diseases are transmitted to the child during the delivery process.
In patients with trichomoniasis, there may be a delay in the manifestation of symptoms, causing the infection not to be identified.
In some cases, delayed treatment can trigger feverish conditions and severe abdominal pain.
Chlamydia, if left untreated, can trigger inflammatory diseases in the tubes, increasing the risk of infertility.
In women, chlamydia can obstruct the tubes or prevent the egg from reaching the uterus, causing ectopic pregnancy .
There may still be rupture of the tubes due to fertilization in the incorrect region, causing internal bleeding.
In men, the infection causes inflammation in the testicle and causes a reduction in the quantity and quality of sperm.
How to prevent yellow discharge?
Simple habits and attitudes can promote intimate health and prevent the risk of discharge, such as:
Hygiene
To maintain pH balance and prevent infections, some basic precautions are essential. how to shower daily, change underwear daily and bedding weekly.
Bathing is essential after sexual intercourse, even when there is no ejaculation or penetration.
However, even women most attentive to intimate cleansing may be susceptible to pH changes.
A few years ago, when intimate soaps were launched, a good number of women adopted the product as part of their bathing routine.
Despite the indications that it does not harm vaginal pH, frequent use can affect the acidity of the region, facilitate infections and cause allergies, especially when there are more than 2 uses per day.
Care for sexual intercourse
The use of condoms is necessary in sex, whatever it may be. Some people still maintain the idea that only penetration involves health risks, but oral sex and even joint masturbation can favor contact with intimate fluids.
Habits and routines
The intimate region is naturally moist and warm, which favors the proliferation of infectious agents.
To worsen the condition, most of the time, the vulva is muffled by clothes, which do not always have adequate fabrics, allowing a minimum of ventilation.
The ideal is to give the intimate area the opportunity to breathe. Sleeping without panties, wearing underwear with light fabrics, such as cotton, and avoiding wearing wet clothes for a long time reduce the risk of contamination and infection.
The use of intimate deodorants, absorbents and perfumed daily protectors can cause allergies and irritations.
Although they do not trigger yellow discharge, these products can cause great discomfort to women if they interfere with vaginal balance.
Avoid intimate showers
The vagina can be considered a self-cleaning region, that is, the use of several intimate products and hygiene tactics is not necessary. Often, it is even inadvisable, as in the case of intimate showers.
The procedure is done with the insertion of water or solutions with antiseptic products in the region of the vagina (that is, in the internal part of the vulva).
Although the method has been used for a long time as a hygiene tactic for women, it is now recognized that it can affect the vaginal flora, altering the intimate pH and favoring infections.
Contraceptives and antibiotics
Some medications can alter the vaginal flora, changing the composition and concentrations of bacteria naturally present.
Contraceptives and antibiotic treatments may be responsible for promoting infections and, therefore, discharge.
It is necessary that the use of medicines be monitored by doctors and, if there is discomfort for the patient, it is recommended to change the medicine when possible.
Clothes
In addition to panties, it is important to be attentive to pants and gym clothes. Tissues that compress the area too much can be harmful to the intimate region.
Women who do physical activities should avoid repeating pants and shorts without washing, especially in hot seasons, as sweat can cause irritation of the area.
In addition, the parts must also not remain wet (from water or sweat) for a long time.
Other types of discharge
The discharge may have other colors and consistencies, which indicate other organic or pathological factors. Briefly, they can indicate:
- White: if accompanied by itching and burning, it may indicate candidiasis. But if it looks more liquid and fluid, it may just be a normal secretion from the body.
- Brown or bloody discharge: may indicate gonorrhea;
- In pregnancy: it may be due to normal hormonal changes during pregnancy. But if it presents an intense color it can be indicative of bacterial vaginosis, gonorrhea or candidiasis;
- Transparent: it is normally a normal fluid in the body;
- Pink: may be indicative of pregnancy, usually caused in the period after fertilization.
Common questions
Does every discharge indicate an STD?
No . Even the yellowish discharge can be candidiasis (which is not sexually transmitted) or changes in the body. For example, the use of medications, the premenstrual period and the emotional state can cause changes in vaginal secretions.
Is yellow mucus normal?
Yellow mucus may be just a normal manifestation of the body, as long as it is not intense and accompanied by other symptoms, such as vaginal burning or itching.
However, even without other symptoms, it is important to pay attention to its color and duration. If the secretion remains for many days and has a strong yellow tone, it is necessary to investigate the causes.
Can yellow discharge be pregnancy?
Yellowish secretion can be a sign of fertilization, although this is not the most common – in general, there is a slight pink discharge or bleeding called nidation .
Does every woman have a discharge?
The vagina produces secretions that are noticeable to most women. Depending on the woman’s physiological structure, it may be that the amount of secretion is very small and, therefore, not noticeable.
Despite being frequent, not every woman will have discharge. But they all have natural secretions.
What can be yellow discharge in pregnancy?
It is necessary to consider that the pregnant woman’s body is undergoing intense hormonal changes and, therefore, changes in the color and aspect of the secretion may occur.
However, if the yellow is intense and, above all, accompanied by pain, burning and discomfort in the region of the vulva, there is a greater possibility of being an infection. Regardless of the condition, the patient must consult the obstetrician and inform about the discharge.
What does discharge in man mean?
In men, discharge always suggests an STD or allergy. It usually occurs in less quantity and with a less noticeable odor. It is necessary to consult a doctor to check the causes.
Body care is essential to maintaining good health and functioning of the body.
The changes that occur during life can be natural, but they can be indicative that something is not working properly.
So that the quality of life and well-being are not affected, some daily measures must be adopted, reducing the risks of diseases.
But it is necessary to pay attention to the body’s signs and seek professional guidance.
In Minute Healthy you will find more tips and information to take care of your health.
