Unusual STD discharge is certainly one of the most common STD symptoms people think of when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases. And largely for that reason, it’s easy to panic or fear the worst at the first sign of any kind of irregularity around the genital region. However, it’s worth noting that discharge from the penis or vagina is not always a sign that you have contracted an STD. In fact, certain discharges are completely normal and nothing to worry about.
STD discharge
If your discharge is the result of an STD, you do not have to worry. Even the STDs that are known to cause STD discharges can be cured fairly easily and painlessly if caught early enough. So before you get all worked up, you’ll want to know a little more about which STDs (and non-STD conditions) cause vaginal and penile discharge and when you should take action to fix it.
STD discharge color chart
As you can see, there are many different types, colors, and consistencies when it comes to STD discharge and non-STD discharge. Often infections cause similar symptoms in men and women, but that is not always the case. So let’s take a moment to differentiate between vaginal discharge and penile discharge.
Vaginal STD discharge
Certain types of vaginal discharge are completely normal, healthy, and even necessary to keep the vagina clean and protected. It is normal for this type of clear or milky discharge to increase during sexual arousal and ovulation. During pregnancy, it is common for these types of discharges to increase in both frequency and volume. And when estrogen levels drop due to menopause, medications, treatments, or other factors, it is normal for the amount of vaginal discharge to decrease.
A normal, healthy discharge will range in color from clear to milky white and will generally have only a mild odor. If the color is more prominent (for example, yellow or green), it may be a sign of a bacterial infection or a sexually transmitted disease. These types of discharges can also have a stronger, fishy odor. In these cases, you will want to take the necessary steps and get tested for STDs. Because unusually colored or foul-smelling vaginal discharge can be indicative of multiple STDs, we recommend choosing a panel option and getting tested for multiple STDs during one visit.
Although not STD related, you should also look out for brown vaginal discharge which can be caused by irregular menstrual cycles and could be a sign of uterine or cervical cancer. Thick and painful discharge, for example the consistency of cottage cheese, can be a sign of a yeast infection. In either case, you will need to consult your doctor about the best treatment regimen.
STD discharge from the penis
In general, any form of discharge from the penis (that is, anything other than semen, pre-ejaculate, or urine) is worth investigating or discussing with a medical professional. That’s not to say that every sign of penile discharge is an immediate cause for concern, but you will want to get it checked out and seek out the right treatment options.
A white or yellow discharge from the penis could be a sign of a bacterial infection or STD. If this type of discharge is visible, you will often notice a mild or intense burning sensation during urination. If you are affected, you will want to get tested immediately and, if necessary, follow the appropriate treatment regimen. And if you test positive, you’ll want to notify any recent sexual partners so they can get tested as well.
Non-STD causes of penile discharge can include urinary tract infections or prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate). Like an STD, a urinary tract infection often causes pain during urination, itching or tenderness in the genital region, in addition to unusual penile discharge. Prostatitis can cause a person to have difficulty urinating, pain during ejaculation, or blood in the urine stream. Each of these conditions is easily curable with the right medications, but you will need to see your doctor if you first suspect something is wrong. If left untreated, these conditions can worsen.
Which STDs cause discharge
In sexually active men and women who experience unusual vaginal or penile discharge, a sexually transmitted disease could certainly be the cause. Besides a burning sensation or pain during urination, unusual discharge is probably one of the more commonly known symptoms of an STD. But remember, many STDs don’t show any indicators, so it’s always a good idea to practice safe sex and get tested regularly, even if there are no signs.
Below are the most common STDs known to cause unusual discharge:
Trichomoniasis
Both women and men can experience something unusual discharge from the vagina or urethra1. In women, this may be frothy and have a strong, fishy odor. Discharges can be white, yellow, green or gray in color. Normally, a person with trichomoniasis who notices discharge from the genitals will also experience pain during urination or intercourse as well as redness, burning and/or itching around the infected areas. These symptoms are not unique to trichomoniasis, so if you experience one or more of these indications, you may want to get tested for multiple STDs just to be sure. Trichomoniasis is often asymptomatic and women are more likely than men to develop symptoms.
Chlamydia
Although chlamydia is usually asymptomatic, it can also cause lumpy, yellow, or white skin dismissal among men and women2 as well as painful or frequent urination and pain during intercourse. Fortunately, chlamydia is easily curable if detected and treated early. If you experience any of these symptoms, or if you think you have been exposed through an infected partner, you will want to get tested and (if necessary) receive proper treatment.
Gonorrhea
Like the aforementioned, gonorrhea is usually asymptomatic and can be transmitted from one person to another through sexual intercourse. However, if signs are present, they may include this increased vaginal discharge or pus-like discharge from the penis 3 often white or yellow in color. Painful urination, pain during intercourse or even pain during bowel movements can also indicate gonorrhea. As with other STDs, you should get tested if you experience any of these symptoms or if you think you have been exposed by a sexual partner. If caught early enough, gonorrhea is easily curable with the right medications.
If you’re someone who starts frantically searching Google at the first sign of penile or vaginal discharge, don’t. It’s important to take a step back and know that whatever the cause of your discomfort, it is likely treatable and curable. It’s never a bad idea to seek out reputable STD testing centers if you develop symptoms or suspect you’ve been exposed, and it’s also never unwise to consult your doctor, who can make a diagnosis and get you on the road to wellness. Non-STD or STD discharge can be a little uncomfortable or downright embarrassing to discuss, even with your doctor, but doing so can help safeguard your health and that of your loved ones.
Sources
- Trichomoniasis. (2020, April 18). Retrieved on February 12, 2021 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/trichomoniasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378609
- Chlamydia trachomatis. (2020, February 20). Retrieved on February 12, 2021 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chlamydia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355349
- Gonorrhea. (2019, December 6). Retrieved on February 12, 2021 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gonorrhoea/symptoms-causes/syc-20351774