Green discharge: There are causes

Discharge is usually clear, whitish, and odorless. If it changes, it can indicate a disease. But what does a green color mean? We explain 4 causes of green discharge.

Discharge (fluor vaginalis), which is also called cervical mucus, is something completely natural because it fulfills an important protective function for the female body. The secretion, which is formed by the glands in the cervix, frees the vagina and uterus from old cells or mucus and the lactic acid bacteria it contains protects the sensitive vaginal environment from the ingress of pathogens.

What color is the discharge?

The discharge of a healthy woman is usually whitish clear. However, consistency and color may change slightly over the course of the cycle. The consistency of the secretion can change from viscous or creamy to thin or watery. For example, the color of the discharge turns slightly yellow just before ovulation and takes on a gel-like consistency. Changes of this kind are therefore not a cause for concern. However, if your discharge turns yellow to greenish along with other unusual symptoms, it may indicate a medical condition.

Green discharge: 4 causes

1. Gonorrhea Infection (Tripper)

Genorrhea, also known colloquially as gonorrhea, is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases worldwide. Typically, gonococcal infection causes inflammation of the genitals or urethra. As a result, around half of all those affected experience symptoms such as purulent, greenish and foul-smelling discharge as well as pain or burning when urinating. Rarely, the infection can also manifest itself through general symptoms such as fever or joint pain. If left untreated, the infection can lead to the gonococci getting into the fallopian tubes and blocking them, which in the worst case can lead to infertility.

 2. Vaginal Bacteria

Factors such as sexual intercourse, insufficient or excessive intimate hygiene and the use of aggressive shower gels in the intimate area can change the composition of good and bad bacteria in the vagina. If the sensitive balance of the vaginal flora is upset and the potentially pathogenic bacteria get the upper hand, this is referred to as a bacterial vaginal infection or vaginosis. Around half of all those affected have no symptoms, in the rest the disease is accompanied by symptoms such as redness, burning, itching, painful urination or sexual intercourse and a changed discharge. This can be thin and foamy, take on a greenish color and smell unpleasantly fishy.

Also interesting: Bacterial vaginal infection – causes and symptoms >>

3. Trichomonad infection

The trichomoniasis infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. In many cases, the disease, which mainly affects women, does not show any symptoms, which is why it can spread quickly. The Trichomonas parasite gets into the vagina or urethra through sexual intercourse, for example, and can cause a urethral or uterine infection there. In about 85 percent of cases, the infection remains symptom-free, and in the remaining 15 percent, symptoms such as an unpleasant-smelling, foamy and greenish discharge, severe itching and pain when urinating can occur. In addition to sexual intercourse, certain factors such as estrogen deficiency, non-intact vaginal flora or certain diseases can increase the risk of infection.

Also interesting: 5 STDs are visible on the skin >>

4. Menopause

Likewise, the hormonal changes during menopause can ensure that a green discharge occurs. Due to the falling estrogen level, the vaginal mucosa becomes drier and the sensitive vaginal flora is disturbed. Bacteria and fungi can multiply better and the discharge can turn yellow-greenish as a result of bacterial infections.

Crystal Waston MD

Crystal Waston has a degree in Cross Media Production and Publishing. At vital.de she gives everyday tips and deals with topics related to women's health, sport, and nutrition.

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