Why are my underwear turning yellow?

Yellowing of worn underwear may be caused by sweat residue, urine residue, oxidation of vaginal secretions, gynecological inflammation, urinary system infection, etc. It can be improved by timely replacement and cleaning, choosing breathable materials, and medical examination.

1. Sweat residue

During strenuous exercise or hot weather, perineal sweat secretion increases. The inorganic salts and proteins in the sweat adhere to the fibers of the underwear and form yellow marks after being oxidized by the air. It is recommended to choose underwear made of moisture-absorbing and quick-drying modal or pure cotton, and wash it by hand with warm water and neutral detergent every day.

2. Urine residue

Incomplete wiping after urination may result in urine stains remaining. The decomposition of urea in urine will produce ammonia, which will turn yellow after chemical reaction with the underwear material. Women should wipe from front to back and rinse the perineum with water after urinating. Elderly groups can choose leak-proof nursing pads.

3. Oxidation of vaginal secretions

Normal leucorrhea contains exfoliated epithelial cells and proteins, which will undergo oxidative discoloration when exposed to air. The increase in secretions during ovulation is more obvious. It is recommended to change the pad every 4-6 hours and avoid using detergents containing bleach. Drying in the shade can prevent fiber aging and yellowing better than exposure to the sun.

4. Gynecological inflammation

Bacterial vaginosis may cause yellow discharge, often with a fishy smell and itching. Trichomonas vaginitis produces yellowish-green foamy leucorrhea. In these two situations, you need to see a doctor for routine leucorrhea examination. You can use metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets or clotrimazole suppositories as directed by your doctor.

5. Urinary system infection

Cystitis or urethritis may cause turbid and yellow urine, and in severe cases, purulent discharge may be seen on underwear. If you have symptoms of frequent urination and painful urination, you need to do a routine urine examination. You can take levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets or Sanjin tablets as directed by your doctor. During the treatment period, underwear should be boiled and disinfected every day.

You should choose light-colored pure cotton underwear for daily use to facilitate observation of changes in secretions. You can add salt to fix the color of newly purchased underwear for the first time. It is recommended to use special underwear during menstruation to avoid adhesive residue on sanitary napkins. If persistent yellowing accompanied by an odor is found, timely gynecological examination and routine urine testing are required. Diabetic patients should be more alert to the risk of urinary system infection. The drawer for storing underwear can contain activated carbon packets to prevent moisture and mildew.