“Why Do Women Have Yellow Stains In Underwear: Understanding Vaginal Discharge and Causes”

SENANDIKA.REPUBLIKA.CO.ID —Often women find liquid or yellow stains in the middle of their underwear. Relax, there’s no reason to panic.

This condition can be due to vaginal discharge, or vaginal discharge that can change color in your underwear. Such vaginal discharge is a normal and healthy occurrence in a woman’s body. This is actually the body’s way of cleaning and protecting the vagina from infections and other harmful organisms.

“However, it is important to understand that vaginal discharge can vary in texture, consistency and color, depending on factors such as the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes and infections,” said Dr Chandrika Anand, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fortis Hospitals, Nagarbhavi, quoted from Indian Express, Thursday (4/5/2023).

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In line, Dr. Amina Khalid, an obstetrician-gynecologist, said that many women may have noticed that their underwear changes color in the groin area. This is most likely seen in dark undergarments such as black or navy.

“But don’t worry. It’s so normal,” he wrote on Instagram.

But why did it happen?

According to Dr Anand, a healthy vagina has a natural pH value between 3.8 and 4.5, which means it is mostly acidic. The vagina has good bacteria called lactobacilli, which keep it healthy by maintaining optimal acidity and keeping bad bacteria from causing infection.

Discharge generally increases when a woman ovulates, as well as during pregnancy. When this liquid is exposed to air, it can cause yellow or orange stains on underwear due to oxidation.

While nothing can be done to prevent it, women can try the following methods to avoid discoloration:

* You can try to choose light-colored underwear on days when vaginal discharge is usually more abundant, so that it is not too visible later.

*You can use a panty liner that absorbs dirt and prevents it from staining your underwear.

*Try to use cotton underwear as much as possible, because it can prevent moisture from being trapped and prevent infection.

*However, if you notice symptoms of abnormal vaginal discharge such as a foul odor or an abnormal color, you should consult a health professional.

Dr Ritu Sethi, Director, Aura Specialist Clinic, Gurgaon and Senior Consultant at Cloud Nine Hospital, Gurgaon, says abnormal vaginal discharge, however, can be a sign of infection or an underlying condition. Discoloration of vaginal discharge can be a cause or a clue to what is causing the problem.

Some signs to watch out for in terms of abnormal discoloration due to vaginal discharge include:

* Yellow or green discharge: This can be a sign of a bacterial infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis.

* Gray discharge: This can also be a sign of bacterial vaginosis.

* Discharge: Thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge can be a sign of a yeast infection.

* Brown or bloody discharge: This can be a sign of spotting or menstrual bleeding, but it can also indicate a more serious problem, such as cervical cancer or an ectopic pregnancy.

* Foamy stools: This can be a sign of trichomoniasis.