Vaginal discharge can also be related to transmissible infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea or trichomoniasis. With new partner exposure and new-onset vaginal discharge, we recommend completing both STI screening and a vaginal self-swab to clarify the cause of the discharge. If you are in a mutually monogamous relationship, usually only a vaginal swab is necessary, unless there are concerns about partner infidelity or you were never screened at the onset of the relationship.