Is Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy Normal?

Why do I have vaginal discharge during pregnancy?

Pregnancy brings along with it many changes in your body, and vaginal discharge is one of them.

It is normal to have vaginal discharge during pregnancy. Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy is called leukorrhea. You may notice that there is an increase in vaginal discharge as compared to the time when you were not pregnant. This is because of an increase in estrogen in your body and more blood flowing around your vagina.

This vaginal discharge is made up of secretions from the vagina and the cervix, old cells, and normal vaginal bacteria.

Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy has the following characteristics:

• Thin
• Clear or milky-white
• Odourless or mild-smelling

You may choose to wear an unscented panty liner when you have vaginal discharge. Do not wear tampons when you are pregnant as it can cause an infection in your vagina.

As you approach labour, vaginal discharge typically increases in volume and becomes thicker in consistency. If you experience changes in your vaginal discharge before you reach 37 weeks, you should consult your doctor as it may be a sign of premature rupture of membranes or preterm labour.

Abnormal vaginal discharge during pregnancy

You should notify your doctor immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

• There is spotting or bleeding that is accompanied by cramp or severe pain.
• Vaginal discharge has a strong smell, accompanied by redness or itching. This can be a sign of an infection.
• Your discharge has changed in colour, smell and consistency from your normal discharge.
• There is a lot of thin, clear discharge and you are unsure whether it is amniotic fluid.
• Discharge that smells unpleasant, has a different colour and seems unusual in any way.
• You experience pain during vaginal discharge. 

When you experience a change in vaginal discharge, always consult your doctor. Do not attempt to diagnose and treat yourself.