Medically Reviewed By Experts Panel
During pregnancy, you might notice more vaginal discharge than usual, and that’s completely normal! This discharge, called leukorrhea, is usually thin, milky white, and has a mild smell. It’s your body’s natural way of keeping the vagina clean and protecting against infections as your hormones change. As your pregnancy progresses, you are likely see an increase in this discharge, especially in the later months. While it’s usually nothing to worry about, if the discharge changes colour, smells bad, or comes with itching or discomfort, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor.
What type of vaginal discharge indicates pregnancy?
An increase in vaginal discharge can be a sign of early pregnancy. It has the following characteristics:
- Appearance: Typically white or clear, and may appear slightly off-white or milky.
- Consistency: Thin, watery, or slightly creamy, but not overly thick or clumpy.
- Odour: Mild or no odour. A strong or foul odour may indicate an infection, not pregnancy.
- Volume: There is usually an increase in the amount of discharge. Hormonal changes, particularly elevated estrogen, cause more blood flow to the pelvic area, resulting in more discharge.
At what week does pregnancy-related vaginal discharge start?
Pregnancy-related vaginal discharge can start in the first or second week after conception, even before you have missed your period. Many women begin to notice it by the 4th to 6th week of pregnancy. As your pregnancy progresses, this discharge usually becomes more noticeable, and it’s heaviest at the end of your pregnancy.
What is the role of vaginal discharge during pregnancy?
Vaginal discharge during pregnancy serves several important functions.
- It helps keep the vagina clean by flushing out bacteria and dead cells, reducing the risk of infections.
- The discharge also helps keep the vaginal environment healthy, which is crucial for protecting both the mother and baby.
- Additionally, it provides moisture, preventing dryness and discomfort.
- In the later stage of pregnancy, this discharge increases to help form a protective barrier, known as the mucus plug, which seals the cervix. This plug helps keep harmful substances out of the uterus, supporting a safe environment for the developing baby.
How does vaginal discharge change in First Trimester?
During pregnancy, white discharge can vary significantly across each trimester due to hormonal changes. As pregnancy progresses, the discharge will increase and may vary in consistency, thickness, frequency and amount.
First Trimester- white discharge:
- In the early weeks of pregnancy, many women experience an increase in discharge. The increased discharge is a natural response to elevated estrogen levels and increased blood flow to the vaginal area.
- The discharge is usually thin, clear, or milky white, and has a mild odour.
- It serves to keep the vaginal area clean and protect against infections, setting the stage for a healthy pregnancy.
- Redflags: While the discharge is generally normal, it should not be accompanied by a strong odour, itching, or irritation. If the discharge becomes yellow, green, or has a foul smell, it is important to consult your doctor
How does vaginal discharge change in the Second Trimester?
Second Trimester- white discharge:
- In the second trimester, the discharge may become more abundant. In the second trimester of pregnancy, vaginal discharge usually continues to increase. The discharge may become slightly more noticeable as the pregnancy progresses. The increased blood flow to the pelvic area and ongoing hormonal changes contribute to this change.
- It often remains clear or white but can appear slightly thicker. It usually remains similar to what was observed in the first trimester—thin, white, milky vaginal discharge, and mild-smelling.
- Most women find it normal, but it’s important to monitor for any signs of infection, such as unusual colour, odour, or irritation that may need medical attention or treatment.
- The rise in discharge is due to increased estrogen levels and blood flow to the pelvic area, helping to protect the vagina from infections.
- However, if the discharge changes colour, becomes thick, has a strong odour, or is accompanied by itching or irritation, it could indicate an infection, and medical advice should be sought.
- How does vaginal discharge change in Third Trimester?
Third Trimester – white discharge:
- In the final trimester, discharge may further increase as the body prepares for labor.
- In the final trimester, as your pregnancy progresses, vaginal discharge often becomes more noticeable and can sometimes be mistaken for urine. This discharge is usually heaviest in the last weeks of pregnancy and may contain pink mucus, which is typically sticky and jelly-like, indicating that your body is getting ready for labor.
- It can become more pronounced, and women might notice it being more mucous-like as the body produces a mucus plug, a thick, gel-like secretion to protect the cervix.
- While this is typical, any sudden changes—especially if accompanied by itching, burning, or a foul smell—should seek consultation with your ob/gyn to rule out infections or other issues.
Before delivery – discharge: Just before delivery, pregnancy-related vaginal discharge often increases and may become mucous-like. You might notice the mucus plug dislodging, which can appear thicker and possibly tinged with pink or blood, known as ‘bloody show.’ This indicates that the cervix is preparing for labor. A significant increase in mucus-like discharge, especially if tinged with blood, may signal the loss of the mucus plug—a sign that your cervix is beginning to dilate and that labor is approaching
When might vaginal discharge during pregnancy be a sign of an infection?
Vaginal discharge during pregnancy may indicate an infection if you notice the following:
- Colour: Yellow, green, gray, or blood-tinged.
- Odour: Strong, foul, or fishy smell.
- Consistency: Thick, clumpy, or frothy.
- Symptoms: Accompanied by itching, burning, or irritation.
- Pain: Discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse.
- Amount: Sudden increase in discharge, especially if it’s unusual in texture or smell.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to call your doctor or midwife. Avoid using over-the-counter medications or feminine hygiene products, as they can worsen the condition.
What do different colours of discharge mean in pregnancy?
Vaginal discharge during pregnancy can vary in colour and texture, and different colours can indicate different things:
- Clear or milky white: Normal discharge, helps keep the vagina clean.
- Yellow or green: Yellow or green vaginal discharge during pregnancy can be a sign of infection, especially if it’s thick, has a strong odour, or is accompanied by itching or irritation. Infections like bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may be the cause, so it’s important to see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Brown: Brown vaginal discharge during pregnancy typically indicates old blood leaving the body, which can be normal. It might happen after a pelvic exam or minor irritation. While it’s usually not a cause for concern, it’s always best to mention it to your Ob-Gyn to rule out any potential issues.
- Pink: Pink vaginal discharge during pregnancy often indicates slight bleeding, which can happen after sex, a pelvic exam, or due to changes in the cervix. While it’s usually harmless, pink discharge could also signal early labor or other issues, so it’s important to mention it to your doctor for further guidance.
- Red: Red vaginal discharge could mean active bleeding, so it’s important to get in touch with your doctor right away.
Tips to prevent infections related to vaginal discharge during pregnancy
To prevent infection during vaginal discharge in pregnancy, follow these tips:
- Maintain good hygiene: Wash the genital area with mild soap and water daily.
- Wear cotton underwear: Opt for cotton underwear to reduce moisture buildup.
- Avoid tight clothing: Tight-fitting clothes can trap moisture.
- Avoid douching/spraying: Douching removes healthy vaginal bacteria and increases risk of infection.
- Stay dry: Change out of wet clothes, like swimsuits or sweaty outfits, as soon as possible.
- Avoid scented products: Stay away from scented soaps, feminine sprays, or pads that may cause irritation.
- Wipe properly: Always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from spreading.
- Wash hands: Wash and dry hands before touching the vaginal area.
- Limit sugar: Sugar promotes the growth of yeast and increases chances of infection.
- Drink water: Drink plenty of water to clear out your urinary tract.
Consult your doctor: Regular check-ups can help detect and treat infections early.
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