Differential Diagnosis for Yellow Vaginal Discharge
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This is the most common cause of vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age. The yellow color of the discharge, along with its characteristic fishy odor, especially after sexual intercourse, points towards BV. It's caused by an imbalance of naturally occurring bacterial flora in the vagina.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Trichomoniasis: Caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, this sexually transmitted infection (STI) can lead to a yellow-green, frothy vaginal discharge. It's accompanied by other symptoms like itching, burning, and redness of the genital area.
- Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): Although typically associated with a white, cottage cheese-like discharge, some cases of candidiasis can present with a yellowish tint, especially if there's a secondary bacterial infection. Symptoms include intense itching, redness, and swelling of the vulva.
- Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, gonorrhea can lead to a yellow or greenish vaginal discharge. It's often accompanied by symptoms like painful urination, increased vaginal discharge, and abdominal pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): While PID itself may not directly cause a yellow vaginal discharge, it's a serious condition that can result from untreated STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia. PID can lead to severe consequences, including infertility and chronic pelvic pain, if not promptly treated.
- Chlamydia: Another STI that can cause a yellow discharge, chlamydia often has mild or no symptoms but can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, including PID and infertility.
Rare Diagnoses
- Foreign Body: The presence of a foreign object in the vagina, such as a forgotten tampon, can cause a foul-smelling, yellowish discharge due to the accumulation of bacteria.
- Vaginal Cancer: Although extremely rare, advanced vaginal cancer can cause abnormal vaginal discharge, which may be yellow or blood-tinged. It's more common in older women and those with a history of cervical cancer or human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
- Granuloma Inguinale (Donovanosis): A rare STI caused by Klebsiella granulomatis, it can lead to ulcerative lesions on the genitals and a yellowish discharge. It's more common in tropical and subtropical regions.