Vaginal Discharge (White Discharge) During Pregnancy
Key Facts:
- Vaginal discharge keeps the vagina moist and helps prevent infection
- It is normal to have more discharge in pregnancy, but it should look like your usual discharge
- Pregnancy can increase the risk of vaginal thrush or bacterial vaginosis, which may cause unusual discharge
- Close to labor, you may notice a sticky discharge known as a “show” that has been sealing your cervix during pregnancy
- Always contact your doctor or midwife if your discharge changes in color, consistency, or smell
What Is Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge(White Discharge) is a natural fluid that keeps the vagina clean and moist. It also helps protect against infections.
Normal discharge changes throughout the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The amount of discharge varies from person to person. It should normally be clear, white, or cream in color and should not have a strong odor.
Healthy bacteria called lactobacilli live in the vagina and keep it balanced. If this balance is disrupted and there is an overgrowth of yeast or harmful bacteria, the discharge can become abnormal. Infections, some medicines, certain health conditions, or using irritating products can all cause abnormal discharge.
Read More: 50 Weird Early Signs Of Pregnancy
Is It Normal to Have Vaginal Discharge in Pregnancy
It is common to notice more discharge while pregnant. This is called leucorrhoea. It usually looks clear or white and does not have a strong smell. The increase happens because of higher levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy.
Does Vaginal Discharge Change During Pregnancy
The amount of discharge usually increases as pregnancy goes on. However, the appearance should still look like your normal discharge.
Your discharge may be abnormal if it:
- Looks green, yellow, brown, or grey
- Has a bad smell
- Contains blood
- Changes in texture such as watery, frothy, or like cottage cheese
- Comes with itching or pain
When Should I See My Doctor
You should contact your doctor or midwife if you notice any vaginal discharge that is unusual for you. This may be a sign of infection.
Your doctor will ask about your discharge and any other symptoms you are experiencing. They may suggest a swab test to check for infection. If an infection is confirmed, treatment will be prescribed. Some genital infections can lead to complications in pregnancy, so it is important to have any changes checked.
During pregnancy, the most common infections linked to abnormal discharge are:
- Vaginal thrush
- Bacterial vaginosis
Vaginal Discharge and a Show
A “show” is a type of vaginal discharge you may notice shortly before labor begins.
Throughout pregnancy, a plug of mucus seals the cervix and helps prevent infections. When your cervix starts to open in preparation for birth, this mucus plug is released. This is known as a show.
The discharge may look watery, sticky, or jelly-like. It may also appear pink or brown and contain some blood.
If you see bright red blood or blood that is not mixed with mucus, contact your doctor or midwife immediately. This bleeding is not a show.
Vaginal Discharge and Waters Breaking
During pregnancy, your baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid inside a protective sac. When the sac breaks, the fluid is released. This is called your waters breaking, or rupture of membranes.
You may feel a trickle or a gush of liquid that you cannot control. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell the difference between vaginal discharge and amniotic fluid.
Waters usually break during labor, but it can also happen earlier, sometimes before full term. If this happens, call your doctor or midwife right away.
