Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy

Leukorrhea is a medical term used to describe vaginal discharge that is thick, white or yellowish, that women experience instead of their period, and is generally harmless. What are the causes of this white discharge, what’s normal and what’s abnormal- we’ll tell you about all this and more!

Video: Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy

What Is Vaginal Discharge?

Almost every woman has to deal with vaginal discharge at some point in her life. The most common cause of this discharge is the change in hormonal levels during the menstrual cycle – the consistency differs from phase to phase.

For example, when a woman is ovulating, the consistency of the discharge is thin and stretchy. When she is not ovulating, the consistency is thick and sticky. The consistency of the discharge helps in the different processes of the menstrual cycle. In most cases, vaginal discharge is nothing to be alarmed about and is considered normal as long as it does not come with irritation, discomfort, a foul odour, and itching.

Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy is referred to as leukorrhea. It comes from your cervix – the neck of the uterus.

Is It Normal to Have White Discharge During Pregnancy?

It is perfectly normal to have more vaginal discharge when pregnant. But what is considered normal is an odourless or mild-smelling, thick, milky white vaginal discharge. However, when it changes colour, it might be a cause for concern.

The vaginal discharge that you might face during pregnancy is very similar to one that you may experience between periods, only heavier. It might not be a pleasant symptom of pregnancy, but it is bound to increase as your pregnancy progresses!

Discharge During Pregnancy

Most women who aren’t pregnant also experience some discharge in the middle of their cycle, but this discharge may increase during pregnancy. This is an important symptom of pregnancy that might begin at around the 13th week, which is approximately the start of your second trimester. As your pregnancy progresses, the discharge is bound to increase. Your vagina is working overtime to keep your cervix healthy and moist, and this is the side-effect of it.

The purpose of this discharge is to protect the birth canal from infections and maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria and flora in the vagina. Sometimes, the discharge may be slightly brown or pink – this is normal as long as you are not bleeding.

Below are the types of vaginal discharge that you are likely to see during the various stages of pregnancy:

1. First Trimester

You will notice normal or minimal vaginal discharge similar to what you are used to. In some cases, there might be no discharge at all.

2. Second Trimester

Vaginal discharge or leukorrhea associated with pregnancy usually starts in the second trimester, around the 13th week of the pregnancy. It might be an increased amount of discharge than what you’re used to and will possibly increase with every week or every day.

3. Third Trimester

The vaginal discharge might become very heavy and uncomfortable, and will probably keep increasing rapidly as you approach labour. In the last few weeks of pregnancy, you may notice thick mucus with streaks of blood – it is called ‘show’ and is an early sign of labour. There’s no need to worry!

Reasons for Vaginal Discharge

Here are some of the common reasons associated with vaginal discharge:

1. Hormonal Changes

A woman’s body undergoes a lot of hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. In the first half of the cycle, the level of estrogen increases and peaks during the time of ovulation. As this hormone is responsible for increased blood supply, it leads to an increase in a colourless and odourless secretion from the cervix which is nothing but the discharge. This discharge is harmless in most cases.

• Symptoms: An increased amount of discharge after ovulation which changes as the cycle progresses.

• Is it normal?: Absolutely normal, as long as the discharge is not coloured or foul-smelling.

• How to deal with it: Keep the area dry, use panty liners, and change your underwear regularly.

2. Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings with it the unpleasant side-effect of vaginal discharge. There is an increase in the level of estrogen because of which the production of mucus increases, resulting in leukorrhea.  It is quite similar to the one you may experience during periods, but its presence may vary. Moreover, it may even be present throughout the duration of pregnancy as it protects the birth canal from any infections and maintains healthy bacteria in the region.

• Symptoms: No increased discharge in the first trimester, but starts increasing from the second trimester and continues till the pregnancy is close to labour.

• Is it normal?: It is normal to experience an increased amount of vaginal discharge when pregnant.

• How to deal with it: Maintain hygiene and keep the vaginal area dry. Speak to your doctor for the best solution, and do not self-medicate.

3. Yeast Infection

A yeast infection can be nasty, but thankfully, it is easy to identify. It is a fungal infection which quite commonly occurs in the vaginal region, indicating the increase of yeast cells in the vagina that disrupts the pH balance and causes discomfort.

• Symptoms: The vaginal discharge is white or yellowish, and might resemble cottage cheese. It might also have a nasty smell and make the area super itchy.

• Is it normal?: It is common, but not normal.

• How to deal with it: Air out your vagina and try to keep it dry. Cut down your sugar intake and speak to your doctor for some medication, either oral or topical.

4. Allergic Reaction 

They’re more common than you think! This could happen due to a fabric or soap allergy.

• Symptoms: The vagina might become itchy, accompanied by a burning sensation. The area might become swollen or red, with a thick discharge and a foul smell.

• Is it normal?: Not normal, but it is important to identify the cause.

• How to deal with it: Identify the cause and keep it away from the vaginal area at all costs. Speak to your doctor for suitable medication.

5. Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Several STDs come with an increased amount of vaginal discharge as a symptom.

• Symptoms: Thick, yellowish vaginal discharge coupled with severe itching, and possibly rashes or boils as well.

• Is it normal?: It is not normal and needs immediate medical attention before it is transmitted further.

• How to deal with it: You will have to trust only your doctor on this one – they might run a few tests to examine and conclude the course of treatment.

6. Medication Side-Effects

Medicines like birth control pills might also mess with the delicate balance down there. Also, the application of ointments and jellies used for contraception can irritate the mucous lining, causing discharge.

• Symptoms: Thick discharge which might be coupled with a foul smell.

• Is it normal?: As long as the discharge is not smelling too much, there’s no reason to worry. It is absolutely normal for it to come as a side-effect of certain medications.

• How to deal with it: Keep the area dry and hygienic. Make sure to use panty liners to soak up the excess discharge.

7. Trichomoniasis

This is caused by a parasite called trichomonas vaginalis and can increase the risk of getting HIV/AIDS.

• Symptoms: Itchy vagina with a thin, foul-smelling discharge. Urination and sex might cause pain or burn.

• Is it normal?: It is not normal and must be treated immediately.

• How to deal with it: Bring it to the attention of your doctor immediately – they might run some tests and diagnose the problem.

Types of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge and Their Symptoms

A thick, cheese-like yellow discharge with a foul smell might be indicative of a vaginal infection. Itchy or white discharge can also indicate something wrong. In such a case, you might require treatment and should bring it to the attention of your doctor.

Here is a quick table to understand what is normal discharge while pregnant and what is abnormal.

Another very important concern is differentiating between increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy and leaking amniotic fluid. If you are not at 37 weeks yet and notice a rapid increase in discharge feel that the discharge has become watery, it may be a sign of pre-term labour and needs to be brought to the attention of your doctor immediately.

How Is Leukorrhea During Pregnancy Treated?

Abnormal vaginal discharge during pregnancy should be identified and treated as soon as possible because some vaginal infections are linked to a higher risk of miscarriage or premature delivery.

Thrush or a yeast infection does not increase the risk during pregnancy but can be extremely uncomfortable.

The treatment that you undergo for abnormal vaginal discharge will depend on the cause of the abnormal discharge. For example, thrush or yeast infections are usually treated with anti-fungal medications, creams or gels. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotic pills or with creams. A drug called metronidazole or tinidazole is usually prescribed to treat trichomoniasis. However, it is very important that you do not ignore an instance of abnormal discharge or self-medicate in case of a suspected vaginal infection, as it could be risky for the foetus.

While some cases of vaginal discharge might indicate something abnormal, there are some steps that you can take to tackle the problem and make yourself more comfortable.

Here’s a guide on handling vaginal discharge during pregnancy and how to get rid of smelly discharge:

• Keep your outer genital area or vulva clean and dry.
• Wear light pads or panty liners to absorb the discharge if the wetness makes you feel uncomfortable. Make sure these are of the non-perfumed variety.
• Wear cotton underwear that allows your skin to breathe.
• Change your underwear at least 2-3 times a day.
• Use unscented soap and water when washing your genital area.
• Wash your hands properly before and after touching your vagina.
• Make sure your vagina is well-lubricated before you have sex.
• Clean your vagina by wiping from front to back, especially after you have had sex.

Things you should NOT do while handling vaginal discharge during pregnancy in order to avoid infections:

• Do not wear a tampon during pregnancy to absorb the discharge. These are not recommended for pregnant women.
• Do not continue wearing smeared underwear for a long time as the continued wetness can make your vagina a breeding ground for infections.
• Avoid douching (rinsing the vagina from the inside) during pregnancy to get rid of the vaginal discharge. Douching during pregnancy can upset the delicate balance of good bacteria and lead to vaginal infections. It might even force air into the vagina, which can be dangerous when you’re expecting.
• Do not use any vaginal wipes or washes. While they smell good, they could mess the delicate pH of your intimate area and increase your chances of a vaginal infection.
• Do not use perfume or even vaginal deodorants during pregnancy.

How to Diagnose Vaginal Discharge

Depending on the symptoms, your doctor might ask you a series of questions regarding the discharge, the most common ones being:

When did the abnormal discharge begin?

• What is the colour of the discharge?
• How is the smell of the discharge?
• Is there any itching with the discharge?
• Is there a burning sensation with the discharge?
• Your recent sexual history

Based on your answers, your doctor might take a sample of the discharge or run a pap smear test, which involves collecting cells from your cervix for further investigation.

The most common reason for abnormal vaginal discharge, whether during pregnancy or otherwise, is a vaginal infection. Thrush, bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis could be the culprits.

Measures to Increase Immunity Against Vaginal Itching

There are several over-the-counter as well as prescribed medicines to treat leukorrhea, but this can also be dealt with at home with some simple home remedies. However, remember to exercise extra caution when you are pregnant. Make sure to consult your doctor before trying out any home remedies.

1. Fenugreek Seeds

One food that controls and maintains the natural pH of the body and the vagina is fenugreek. It also has an impact on the estrogen levels in the body and boosts immunity. Here’s how to use it:

Soak one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight, and strain the water the next morning. Add half a teaspoon of honey to it and drink it on an empty stomach.

You could also boil two teaspoons of fenugreek seeds in four cups of water for 30 minutes. Strain the water and allow it to cool down. This water can be used as a vaginal wash two to three times a day for a couple of days.

3. Bananas

Bananas not only aid digestion but also help control vaginal discharge. Here’s how to use them:

Eating a couple of small, overripe bananas daily can help control leukorrhea. You can also mix two tablespoons of banana flower juice with two teaspoons of powdered palmyrah candy. Consume this once a day.

4. Cranberries

Cranberries are good for those suffering from urinary tract infection because they are known to have antiseptic and antibiotic properties. Here’s how to use them:

Drinking one glass of unsweetened cranberry juice daily can help keep vaginal discharge at bay.

Cranberry tablets help prevent bacteria from attaching to the vaginal wall and fight the problem of leukorrhea. But make sure to consult your doctor before consuming these tablets.

5. Indian Gooseberry (Amla)

High in vitamin C, amla (Indian gooseberry) is another fruit that is beneficial for vaginal health. Here’s how to use them:

Mix one teaspoon of Indian gooseberry powder with honey to make a thick paste. Consume this daily for about a week.

Combine one cup of water with one teaspoon of dried Indian gooseberry root powder and boil until it reduces to half. Add some sugar and consume this on an empty stomach every morning.

6. Figs

Figs have a powerful laxative effect on the body and help with excess vaginal discharge as well. Here’s how to use them:

Soak a couple of dried figs in one cup of water overnight. Blend the soaked figs and drink the mixture the next morning.

Grind equal amounts of the bark of a fig tree and banyan tree into a fine powder. Mix one tablespoon of this powder in two cups of water and use it as a vaginal wash for a couple of days.

Remember to always seek medical intervention if you suspect an abnormal discharge in the course of your pregnancy, and always refrain from self-diagnosis. It is always better to be sure and avoid further complications from arising. Ensure you practice complete hygiene and keep your vaginal area dry. Remember that it’s a journey of 9 months and a lifetime! You can use all the above requisite information for a happy and healthy pregnancy!

Also Read: Watery Discharge During Pregnancy