Greenish vaginal discharge: what it is, what causes it and how to treat it

Every woman has normal secretions that make the vagina naturally moist. Normally this secretion is clear, fluid and odorless, varying in amount according to the menstrual cycle and the period of arousal that precedes sexual intercourse.

Changes in the color or smell of vaginal discharge can be a sign of a health problem. Discharge is often the body’s defense to fight bacteria and other microorganisms, including sexually transmitted ones.

Greenish stains on panties are not normal when it comes to your intimate health and therefore deserve attention and care.

Something is wrong

Greenish discharge, accompanied by an unpleasant smell and itching in the vaginal area can indicate a disease called trichomoniasis. It is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a protozoan that lives in the uterus and vagina. The disease can also be transmitted by contaminated underwear and bath towels.

Sometimes in some women the infection has no symptoms, says gynecologist Maria Luiza Campos. In other cases, the discharge caused by the infection may have a grayish color, explains Maria Luiza.

diagnosis and treatment

Any type of altered vaginal discharge can be considered a way that the body has to warn that it is not in perfect working order. It is an alert for you to look for your gynecologist and take care of the problem.

Trichomoniasis cases are diagnosed through laboratory tests, such as vaginal fluid analysis or Pap smear. The treatment is done with antibiotics that will be prescribed by the doctor and the partners also need treatment so that there is no new contamination of the disease. The man can be infected and not show symptoms and, therefore, he must always be treated together with the woman, explains the gynecologist Maria Luiza.

Change some habits and protect yourself

Intimate hygiene is an important factor in preventing and even treating vaginal discharge. It is necessary to use products that protect the vagina and do not interfere with the defenses of the genital mucosa. Other simple habit changes can ensure your intimate health and help prevent disease.

• Choose cotton panties;
• Avoid very tight clothing;
• Avoid the use of daily protectors as much as possible, as they further smother the intimate region (creating an inviting environment for microorganisms that cause discharge);
• Whenever possible, sleep without panties or spend periods without panties.

It is worth remembering that a balanced diet has the role of guaranteeing the constant production of vaginal lactobacilli (which are the defense cells of the vagina) and helping to maintain the vaginal pH within the normal range, preventing the proliferation of bacteria foreign to the female body.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.