OpenHealth Q&A

Navigating Ongoing Discolored Discharge: Seeking Advice

Hey there, I'm a 20-year-old woman weighing 38 kg (around 84 lbs) and standing at 150 cm (about 4'11 ft). Recently, I've been dealing with an unusual discharge that I'm worried about. Last October 2024 was when it first started—watery, with a hint of green and an unpleasant fishy odor. Being health-conscious, I discussed this with a family member in medical school, training to become an Ob-Gyn. However, they initially brushed off my concerns, attributing it to stress or hygiene due to my virgin status. I hesitated to reveal that I had been sexually active, as we only engaged in fingering, and did not participate in oral or use any toys. As days went by without improvement, they eventually prescribed me oral metronidazole. After completing the course, things seemed to normalize, but three months later, the same suspect discharge returned. This time, wary about hygiene yet maintaining regular shower habits without douching, I sought a second opinion from a different Ob-Gyn. I was completely honest this time and received a prescription for metronidazole in suppository form. I was advised to follow up if the issue persisted. Upon finishing the 7-day treatment, the discharge's texture and odor improved, but the greenish tint remained. Self-consciousness crept in, making me hesitant to resume sexual activity. Busy with school, I managed to see the same Ob-Gyn four months later. Since the symptoms lingered, a pap smear was performed. Unexpectedly, during the wait for my results, the watery discharge and fishy smell reappeared, even after completing my antibiotics. Being out of town for summer, I confided in my relative, who initially prescribed my antibiotics, but still withheld details about my sexual activity. After some persistence, they gave me another round of oral metronidazole at a dosage of 500 mg, three times a day for five days. Although I experienced intense side effects during treatment, I completed the regimen. Meanwhile, my pap smear results came back showing "NEGATIVE FOR INTRAEPITHELIAL LESION OR MALIGNANCY" and indicating "REACTIVE CELLULAR CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH INFLAMMATION (includes typical repair)." At this stage, I suspected I had bacterial vaginosis (BV) during the pap test and believed I was on the right track with the antibiotics. Following the third treatment, I noticed that the discharge occasionally still manifested as green, never fully returning to a clear state. Just this morning, I spotted the light green discharge again, which caused me stress. Both medical professionals suggested that if the discolored discharge persists post-antibiotics, it might simply be normal and indicated that I should work on my weight, as I am underweight. I am aware that I need to gain some weight, but I can't shake the feeling that there may be more to this issue. Should I heed their advice and try to relax, or should I set aside money from my scholarship for yet another doctor’s visit? Finances are tight, so I'm reaching out to gather perspectives before making a decision. Thanks in advance for any insights you can provide! **TL;DR:** Despite three courses of antibiotics, my discharge remains green. Doctors say it’s normal and that I shouldn’t be concerned. Should I trust their judgment or save up for another appointment?

Answers (1)

7/28/2025, 6:02:26 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel concerned and stressed about ongoing symptoms that haven't fully resolved. Your experience with discolored discharge and the varying responses from medical professionals is understandably frustrating. It's important to acknowledge that while you have sought treatment, addressing any lingering symptoms is essential for your peace of mind and overall health.

Main Points:

1. Discolored discharge can be concerning and is often linked to infections or other health issues.
2. Your tests returned negative for serious concerns, but continuing symptoms merit further exploration.
3. It’s important to balance medical advice with your own intuition about what feels right.

Explanation:

Discharges that are green and have an unpleasant odor are often associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) or other infections. It’s positive news that your pap smear results are normal, indicating no severe issues like cancer. However, persistent symptoms like yours suggest that there may still be an imbalance or lingering infection.

Despite receiving several antibiotic treatments, ongoing changes in discharge can sometimes indicate that the underlying cause (like BV) isn't fully resolved, or that there could be another condition at play such as a yeast infection or a sexually transmitted infection (even if you have had limited sexual activity). Stress, hormonal changes, and hygiene practices can also influence discharge, but your concerns are valid and should not be dismissed.

Next Steps:

1. Follow Up: Since your symptoms have persisted, consider scheduling another appointment with a healthcare provider. Given your past experiences, you might want to look for a provider who is open to discussing your concerns and can take a holistic view of your situation, including stress and weight.

2. Symptom Journal: Keep a diary of your symptoms, including the color, odor, and any activities (such as stress levels or sexual activity) leading up to flare-ups. This information can help a healthcare provider gain insight into your condition.

3. Weight Management: Since both doctors mentioned working on your weight, consider consulting with a nutritionist or a supportive health coach who can help you create a healthy weight gain plan. Being at a healthy weight can have beneficial effects on your overall health.

4. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Focus on a balanced diet, hydration, and stress-reducing activities. Mindfulness practices like yoga or meditation can also help alleviate stress, which may improve your symptoms.

5. Trust Your Instincts: If your symptoms continue to make you anxious, it's completely justified to seek another opinion, as your comfort and health are of utmost importance.

While some sources say it’s normal for some women to experience variations in discharge, your specific situation merits attention to ensure there's no underlying condition. It’s okay to trust your feelings and seek further advice if needed. Take care and focus on steps to feel empowered in your health journey.