Green Discharge: Insights on Fungal Infections in Women

Fungal infection

Since last year, I have been experiencing itching in the pubic area, with a lot of green discharge.
In March of this year, I visited a gynecologist who diagnosed me with a fungal infection and prescribed a suppository.
Later, I went to work in Japan and continued my treatment there.
I visited two gynecologists, both of whom conducted cultures but found no pathogens.
One of them even detected beneficial bacteria, yet my discharge remains green.
The suppository seemed to help at first, but now it feels ineffective.
The doctors have said that everything appears normal, but why is my discharge still green? This issue has been troubling me for a long time, and I kindly request an explanation from the doctor.
Thank you.

aaa, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/04

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the amount of vaginal discharge can vary based on individual constitution and will change throughout the menstrual cycle.
For instance, after menstruation ends, the discharge is typically minimal and gradually increases.
During ovulation, the discharge becomes more abundant, characterized by a clear, stretchy, and viscous consistency with no odor.
After ovulation, the discharge decreases again but becomes thicker.
Just before menstruation, the discharge increases once more, often appearing slightly yellow or blood-tinged and may have a faint fishy odor.
You should consult a physician if you experience any of the following conditions: 1.
An abnormal increase in discharge that feels uncomfortable or necessitates the use of panty liners.
2.
Changes in the color or consistency of the discharge.
3.
An unpleasant odor; normal vaginal discharge is typically odorless, and the presence of an odor usually indicates a disruption in the vaginal environment, potentially allowing pathogens to thrive.
4.
Accompanying symptoms such as itching or burning in the vulva or vagina, lower abdominal pain, which may indicate vaginitis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2017/10/04

More Info

Understanding green discharge can be quite complex, especially when it comes to differentiating between various types of infections and their underlying causes. In your case, the persistent green discharge, along with the itching and previous diagnoses of fungal infections, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that vaginal discharge can vary significantly in color, consistency, and odor depending on a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, menstrual cycle phases, and the presence of infections. Normal vaginal discharge is typically clear to white and may become thicker or more abundant during ovulation. However, when the discharge changes to green or yellow-green, it often indicates an underlying issue that may require medical attention.

In your situation, the green discharge could potentially be linked to several factors. While fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species, are common and can lead to symptoms such as itching and abnormal discharge, they typically produce a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge rather than green. The fact that your discharge is green suggests that there may be another type of infection at play, such as a bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like trichomoniasis, which is known to cause greenish discharge and can be accompanied by a foul odor.

The absence of bacteria in your cultures does not rule out the possibility of an infection, as some infections may not be easily detectable through standard testing. For instance, trichomoniasis is often missed in routine cultures, and it requires specific testing methods to identify. Additionally, the presence of "good" bacteria, or lactobacilli, is a positive sign, indicating that your vaginal flora is somewhat balanced, but it does not eliminate the possibility of an infection.

Given that you have experienced recurrent symptoms and have undergone treatment without significant improvement, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a different healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation, including a detailed history, physical examination, and possibly more specialized testing, could provide further insights into your condition. It’s also important to discuss your symptoms openly, including any discomfort during intercourse, as this could indicate inflammation or irritation that may need to be addressed.

In terms of management, maintaining good vaginal health is crucial. This includes practicing safe sex, avoiding irritants such as scented soaps or douches, wearing breathable cotton underwear, and ensuring proper hygiene. Additionally, if you have any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or immune system disorders, managing these effectively can help reduce the frequency of infections.

In conclusion, while green discharge can be indicative of various infections, it is essential to consider the full clinical picture, including associated symptoms and medical history. Persistent or recurrent symptoms warrant further investigation to ensure appropriate treatment and management. If you continue to experience these issues, I encourage you to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abnormal Discharge: Causes and Concerns in Women's Health

In recent days, the discharge has been yellow-green and has an unpleasant odor, but there is no itching. I usually use panty liners. I had a fungal infection previously but completed the medication as directed by my doctor. I have had sexual intercourse; could I be infected again...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The response indicates that it may not be a fungal infection, but rather a bacterial infection, and the treatment medications differ. Please discuss the possibility of a bacterial infection with your physician and undergo treatment. It is recommended to minimize the use of panty ...

Yellow-Green Discharge: Understanding Causes and When to Seek Help

Recently, I have noticed that my discharge has changed to a yellow-green color, occasionally with some white curd-like substance, but there is no odor. Sometimes it itches. I have had a previous yeast infection and I'm not sure if I have another one. Do I need to see a docto...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Vaginal infections and abnormal discharge are among the most common conditions affecting women. There are many contributing factors, and treatment methods require comprehensive health education. It is recommended to seek evaluation from a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology a...

Understanding Green Vaginal Discharge: Is It a Sign of Infection?

My discharge is green, but there is no itching or odor. Does this indicate an infection?

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss Cake: Your condition may be a vaginal candidiasis infection. However, since you do not have symptoms such as unpleasant odor, itching, or an increase in discharge, theoretically, even if there is a vaginal candidiasis infection, if you are asymptomatic, there is no im...

Understanding Persistent Green Discharge: Causes and Solutions for Women's Health

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing "green discharge" for over a year, and I also have itching in the vulvar area. I have seen a gynecologist, and the doctor has diagnosed me with "fungal infection," but it keeps recurring and seems like it will never go aw...

Dr. Lin Zhaopei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Green discharge is most likely associated with a trichomonas vaginalis infection combined with anaerobic bacterial infection. If the infection persists or is accompanied by other viral infections, it may cause pain even with light touch. It is recommended to consult another obste...