Medically reviewed by Neka Miller, PhD on March 27, 2026. Written by Karen Eisenbraun. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.
*Everlywell works with preferred partners. If you click on links or make a purchase through this page, we may earn a commission.*
Vaginal discharge is a common and healthy part of the body’s natural reproductive process. Throughout the menstrual cycle, the cervix produces fluid that helps keep the vagina clean and protected from harmful bacteria. Because hormone levels shift during the cycle, the amount, texture, and appearance of discharge can change from day to day.
However, certain changes in vaginal discharge—such as a strong odor, unusual color, or thick or clumpy consistency—may signal an underlying infection. Discharge that appears green, yellow, gray, or unusually chunky may be a sign that something isn’t quite right and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Abnormal vaginal discharge can result from certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia and gonorrhea. Check for 6 common STIs from the privacy of home with the Everlywell at-home STD Test for women.
Common causes of abnormal discharge
Abnormal vaginal discharge usually indicates an infection. Vaginal discharge that is caused by an infection may have a strong odor, a yellow or green color, or an abnormal consistency. The following are some common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge:
Yeast infection
Yeast infections are very common in women. Some yeast in the vagina is normal, but if yeast multiplies out of control, it may lead to a yeast infection. Symptoms of a yeast infection include burning and itching in the genital area, along with white discharge with a cottage cheese-like consistency. Yeast infections can be caused by the use of antibiotics, which can upset the body’s natural bacteria levels.
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, is a common infection caused by bacterial overgrowth. BV can cause an increase in vaginal discharge, which may have a foul or fishy odor. Left untreated, it can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy complications. Fortunately, BV is usually easy to treat with medication.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is an infection caused by a single-celled, microscopic parasite. Trichomoniasis typically spreads through sexual contact (specifically, vaginal sex vs. oral or anal sex). Trichomoniasis can cause a green or yellow vaginal discharge, along with pain, inflammation, and itching, although many people who have the parasite have no symptoms.
You can also screen for this infection from home with the Everlywell at-home trichomoniasis test, which allows you to collect a sample privately and send it to a lab for analysis.
Gonorrhea and chlamydia
Gonorrhea and chlamydia are sexually transmitted bacterial infections, both of which can cause abnormal vaginal discharge. Symptoms of gonorrhea are similar to those of a yeast infection and may include a watery, creamy, or slightly green vaginal discharge.
Many people who have chlamydia experience no symptoms, but chlamydia can cause serious health complications if left untreated. Chlamydia can cause a vaginal discharge that may resemble mucus or pus.
With proper treatment and early detection, gonorrhea and chlamydia can usually be completely cured. Both gonorrhea and chlamydia can be detected with our at-home Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Test.
Related health conditions
Uterine cancer
Irregular periods or spotting are often the reason for brown vaginal discharge. However, if brown discharge continues for an extended period, or if it occurs after menopause, it may be a sign of uterine or endometrial cancer. Other symptoms of uterine cancer include abnormal vaginal bleeding and/or pelvic pain.
Vaginal atrophy
Vaginal atrophy refers to the thinning and drying out of the walls of the vagina. Common symptoms include vaginal irritation, dryness, and pain during intercourse. Symptoms can also include burning during urination, itching, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Vaginal atrophy most often occurs during menopause, but it can result from anything that causes a loss of estrogen.
Seeking medical care for abnormal vaginal discharge
If you have abnormal vaginal discharge along with other symptoms, a good step to take is seeing your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Other symptoms to watch for include:
- Fever
- Increased urination
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
If you’re experiencing symptoms and aren’t sure what’s causing them, speaking with a licensed healthcare provider can help you determine the next steps. You can explore online sexual health care options and, if appropriate, connect with a provider who can review your symptoms and recommend treatment.
Other remedies
Over-the-counter creams can frequently help with a yeast infection—and to prevent yeast infections in the future, ask your healthcare provider about taking a probiotic whenever you use an antibiotic.
To prevent bacterial overgrowth in the vagina, wear breathable cotton underwear and practice good hygiene. Practice safe sex (by using protection, for example) to reduce your risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections that can cause abnormal genital discharges.
Related content
What Do STD Discharges Look Like?
References
1. Vaginal Discharge. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. URL. Accessed February 20, 2020.
2. Vaginal discharge. Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed February 20, 2020.
3. Bacterial vaginosis. Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed February 20, 2020.
4. Trichomoniasis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. URL. Accessed February 20, 2020.
5. Chlamydial Infections. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. URL. Accessed February 20, 2020.
6. Vaginal atrophy. Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed February 20, 2020.
7. Cervical mucus method for natural family planning. Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed February 20, 2020.
Spotlight on
Featured content
Explore Everlywell
