Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy

One of the first of many changes you may experience when you become pregnant is in your vaginal discharge. Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy is leukorrhea a thin, white, milky, and mild smelling discharge. Leukorrhea is a normal discharge that increases as your pregnancy progresses.

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What causes leukorrhea?

The increase in estrogen production during pregnancy causes an increase in blood flow to the pelvic region and stimulates mucous membranes.

What you need to know!

Leukorrhea is heavier than the discharge you have between periods. This milky white discharge protects the birth canal from infection and helps to balance bacteria in the vagina.

What you can do to stay feeling fresh.

Wear pads or panty liners to absorb the discharge and protect your clothing. Make sure to change regularly as yeast loves dark, moist areas.

Keeping the area clean can help prevent unpleasant smells.

What not to do.

Do not use tampons. No douching, this can upset the natural ph balance in your vagina and can lead to infections.

Don’t use washes and wipes specifically meant to keep the vagina clean. This could cause irritation and can alter the pH balance in your vagina.

If you experience discharge that is pinkish or brownish, it could be the result of cervical irritation after sex or a pelvic exam. This is very normal, as long as you’re not bleeding heavily. It is a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider about any changes in your discharge during pregnancy.

What isn’t normal?

If the discharge is thick, green or yellow, with a strong odor, and you are experiencing redness or itching, you could have an infection such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. Your healthcare provider can very easily treat both.

Another reason for abnormal discharge could be an STD. If you think you may have been exposed to an STD it is very important to get screened by your healthcare provider.

If you experience a very watery discharge call your healthcare provider, as it could be amniotic fluid leaking.

Please consult with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing an unusual symptoms during pregnancy.