Discharge During Pregnancy: What’s Normal and When to Be Concerned
During pregnancy, your body undergoes a myriad of changes to accommodate the growing fetus. One of these changes is an increase in vaginal discharge. This discharge is typically clear or milky white and has a mild odor. It is caused by the increased production of estrogen and progesterone, which stimulate the glands in the cervix and vagina to produce more fluid.
Normal Discharge During Pregnancy
Normal discharge during pregnancy is usually:
- Clear or milky white
- Thin and watery
- Mildly odorous
- May increase in amount as pregnancy progresses
Types of Discharge During Pregnancy
There are different types of discharge that you may experience during pregnancy. Some are normal, while others may indicate an underlying infection or condition.
1. Clear or Milky White Discharge
This is the most common type of discharge during pregnancy and is usually normal. It is caused by the increased production of estrogen and progesterone.
2. Yellow or Green Discharge
Yellow or green discharge may indicate an infection, such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. It may also be accompanied by itching, burning, or pain.
3. Pink or Brown Discharge
Pink or brown discharge can be a sign of implantation bleeding, which occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. It can also be a sign of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
4. Red Discharge
Red discharge during pregnancy is usually a sign of bleeding. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including miscarriage, placental abruption, or preterm labor.
5. Watery Discharge
Watery discharge during pregnancy can be a sign of amniotic fluid leakage. This can be a serious condition, as it can lead to infection or premature birth.
When to Be Concerned
While most discharge during pregnancy is normal, there are some cases where it may be a sign of an underlying infection or condition. You should see your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Discharge that is yellow or green
- Discharge that has a foul odor
- Discharge that is accompanied by itching, burning, or pain
- Discharge that is bloody or red
- Watery discharge
Causes of Abnormal Discharge During Pregnancy
Abnormal discharge during pregnancy can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Yeast infections: Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus. They can cause itching, burning, and a thick, white discharge.
- Bacterial vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis is a bacterial infection of the vagina. It can cause a thin, white or gray discharge with a fishy odor.
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): STIs can cause a variety of symptoms, including discharge, itching, and pain.
- Miscarriage: Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks. It can cause vaginal bleeding and discharge.
- Ectopic pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. It can cause vaginal bleeding and discharge.
- Placental abruption: Placental abruption is a condition in which the placenta separates from the uterine wall. It can cause vaginal bleeding and discharge.
- Preterm labor: Preterm labor is labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. It can cause vaginal bleeding and discharge.
Treatment for Abnormal Discharge During Pregnancy
The treatment for abnormal discharge during pregnancy will depend on the underlying cause.
- Yeast infections: Yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications.
- Bacterial vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics.
- STIs: STIs are treated with antibiotics or antiviral medications.
- Miscarriage: Miscarriage cannot be treated, but the doctor may provide support and counseling.
- Ectopic pregnancy: Ectopic pregnancy is treated with surgery or medication.
- Placental abruption: Placental abruption is treated with bed rest and medication.
- Preterm labor: Preterm labor is treated with bed rest and medication.
Prevention of Abnormal Discharge During Pregnancy
There is no sure way to prevent abnormal discharge during pregnancy, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:
- Practice good hygiene: Keep your genital area clean and dry.
- Wear cotton underwear: Cotton underwear allows your skin to breathe and helps to prevent moisture buildup.
- Avoid douching: Douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and increase your risk of infection.
- Get regular prenatal care: Your doctor can check for signs of infection and provide treatment if necessary.
Conclusion
Discharge during pregnancy is normal and usually nothing to be concerned about. However, if you experience any changes in the color, consistency, or odor of your discharge, it is important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying infections or conditions.