Green Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a natural part of women’s reproductive health. The vagina continuously produces discharge to clean itself and stay healthy. This discharge is usually clear, white, or cream-colored and may have a mild odor. However, discharge that is green in color and has a foul smell can be a sign of an infection or another health problem.

Green discharge is a discharge coming from the vaginal area that has a different color and odor compared to normal vaginal discharge. The green color usually indicates an infection in the vaginal area. These infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites.

The most common causes of green discharge are:

• Trichomonas vaginitis: Caused by the sexually transmitted parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It can cause green or yellow, foamy, and foul-smelling discharge.
• Bacterial vaginosis: An infection resulting from the imbalance of normally present bacteria in the vagina. It can cause gray or white, fishy-smelling discharge.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): An infection affecting the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It can cause green or yellow, foul-smelling discharge.
• Gonorrhea and chlamydia: Sexually transmitted bacterial infections. They can cause green or yellow discharge.
• Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix. It can cause green or yellow discharge.
• Foreign body: A tampon or other foreign object left in the vagina can cause green and foul-smelling discharge.

In addition to green discharge, the following symptoms may also be observed:

• Vaginal itching and burning
• Pain and tenderness in the vaginal area
• Burning sensation during urination
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Foul odor
• Fever

For the diagnosis of green discharge, your doctor may perform the following tests:

• Pelvic examination: Physical inspection of the vaginal area.
• Vaginal discharge test: Sample of the discharge is taken and examined under a microscope, and culture is performed.
• Pap smear test: Cell sample taken from the cervix for examination.
• Colposcopy: Enlarged examination of the cervix.
• Other tests: If necessary, blood tests and urine tests may also be performed.

Treatment of green discharge varies depending on the underlying cause. Treatment options include:

• Antibiotics: Used for bacterial infections.
• Antifungal medications: Used for fungal infections.
• Antiparasitic drugs: Used for parasitic infections.
• Other treatments: In cases such as pelvic inflammatory disease, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotic treatment may be required.

Green discharge may be a sign of sexually transmitted infections such as trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. If left untreated, these infections can lead to infertility and other health problems.

The presence of green discharge during pregnancy can be risky for both the mother and the baby. Infections may lead to miscarriage, premature birth, and other complications. If green discharge occurs during pregnancy, a doctor should be consulted.

The decrease in estrogen hormone after menopause can lead to vaginal dryness and changes in the vaginal flora. This may result in infections and green discharge.

Vaginal hygiene plays an important role in preventing green discharge. You can maintain your vaginal hygiene by following these recommendations:

• Wash the vaginal area once a day with warm water and a mild soap.
• Do not perform vaginal douching.
• Avoid using perfumed soaps, lotions, and sprays.
• Wear cotton underwear.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing.
• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.

A healthy diet can help protect vaginal health and prevent infections. Consuming probiotic-rich foods such as probiotic yogurt may help regulate the vaginal flora.

Stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. Stress management techniques (such as yoga and meditation) may be helpful in preventing green discharge.

Antibiotic use can disrupt the vaginal flora and lead to fungal infections. Fungal infections may also cause green discharge. Therefore, it is important to follow your doctor's recommendations when using antibiotics and to take probiotic supplements if necessary.

Green discharge may be dangerous and require urgent medical attention in the following situations:

• High fever
• Severe abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Fainting
• Bleeding

Green discharge is often accompanied by a foul odor. This smell results from the activity of microorganisms causing the infection. Foul odor may also be a symptom of other vaginal infections in addition to green discharge.

Green discharge and other vaginal infections can negatively affect sexual life. These infections may cause pain and discomfort during intercourse. Moreover, infections can be transmitted to sexual partners. Therefore, individuals experiencing green discharge or symptoms of other vaginal infections should avoid sexual activity and seek treatment.

At A Life Health Group Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of green discharge and other vaginal infections. Our experienced obstetricians and gynecologists work together to provide you with the best care. For more information about green discharge and other women’s health issues or to book an appointment, please contact us.