Is it normal to have vaginal discharge in pregnancy?
Almost all women have more vaginal discharge in pregnancy. This is quite normal and happens for a few reasons. To help prevent any infections from rising from the vagina to the womb, the cervix (neck of the womb) and vaginal walls soften and discharge increases during pregnancy. You may also produce more fluid if your progesterone levels are higher.
Pregnancy is common for there to be an increase in discharge, but it’s important to monitor it and let your doctor or midwife know if it changes in any way.
It’s always better to be safe and call your doctor if you’re unsure. Make a note of the beginning of the changes in your vaginal discharge and any distinguishing features. This will enable your doctor to decide whether or not your discharge warrants concern.
Changes to the cervix during pregnancy also affect vaginal discharge. The body produces extra discharge as the cervix and vaginal wall soften to help prevent infections. As your pregnancy draws to a close, your baby’s head may also press against the cervix, which frequently results in an increase in vaginal discharge.
Abnormal discharge may be a sign of infection. Yeast infections are common during pregnancy. Your doctor might suggest a vaginal cream or suppository if you get a yeast infection while pregnant. To avoid a yeast infection:
Another factor that can contribute to abnormal discharge is an STD. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise all expectant women to get tested for STDs. At your initial prenatal visit, your healthcare provider might perform an STD check on you. To lessen the chance of passing an STD to your unborn child, it’s crucial to inform your doctor as soon as possible if you think you may have an STD.
It’s not always simple to distinguish between changes that are normal and those that should raise concern during pregnancy, which can be as confusing as it is exhilarating.
What is leukorrhea or pregnancy discharge?
The thin, milky-white, mildly scented (and occasionally odorless) vaginal discharge that many women first experience in early pregnancy is known medically as leukorrhea.
The amount will likely increase as your pregnancy progresses. Leukorrhea resembles the heavier vaginal discharge you might encounter between periods
An increase in estrogen levels during pregnancy results in increased blood flow to the pelvic region. In early pregnancy and beyond, increased blood flow stimulates the body’s mucous membranes, increasing vaginal discharge.
Additionally, it serves a crucial function: pregnancy discharge clears away dead cells from the vagina, guards against infection in the birth canal, and keeps the vagina’s bacteria in a balanced state.