Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy

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Discharge During Pregnancy

Most women experience higher levels of vaginal discharge during pregnancy. This is often referred to as leucorrhoea. Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy is odorless or milky in color. It should resemble the discharge you experienced prior to pregnancy. Most women produce more vaginal discharge during pregnancy due to greater blood flow in the genitals and higher hormone production in the body.

Vaginal discharge is usually at its highest in the third trimester, particularly as you approach labor and delivery. In early pregnancy your body forms a mucous plug to protect the cervical canal from foreign predators. Later in pregnancy as your cervix begins to dilate in preparation for labor, the mucous plug releases producing blobs or globs of mucous. No, this doesn't sound attractive, but it is a normal part of pregnancy. Usually you can easily resolve the problem by wearing a light panty liner throughout your pregnancy.

Normal Discharge Vs. Leaking Fluid
Some women have concerns that increasing vaginal discharge may be a sign of leaking amniotic fluid. When in doubt it's always best you ask your doctor. Typically mucous or bloody like discharge that fills a liner repeatedly warrants an examination. If you find blood tinged mucous or experience leaking prior to 37 weeks this may be a sign you are in pre-term labor. You should contact your health care provider immediately.

Some women leak urine during their pregnancy, particularly as their uterus continues to grow and places pressure on their bladder. This is perfectly normal. Again you can usually easily resolve this problem by wearing a panty liner. You should avoid wearing a tampon during pregnancy, as this can introduce foreign bacteria into your vagina or cervix. While you may use scented wipes, its best you don't douche during pregnancy. This can increase vaginal irritation and destroy the normal and healthy balance of vaginal flora in your vagina. You also increase your risk of infection if you douche during pregnancy.

How Can I Tell Normal Discharge From An Infection?
Vaginal infections are quite common during pregnancy. If you experience symptoms other than discharge, including itching, burning or discharge that is tinged yellow, green or gray you may have a vaginal infection. Cottage cheese like discharge is usually a sign of a yeast infection. Foul smelling discharge may also be a sign of an infection. It is important that all vaginal infections during pregnancy are treated promptly. If you are not certain as to the cause of your infection you should seek out the advice of your health care provider immediately. An over-the-counter yeast remedy will not help you out one bit if you are suffering from bacterial vaginosis.

Some bacterial infections may result in premature delivery. A UTI left untreated may result in a kidney infection, which can also cause premature delivery or other pregnancy complications. It is extremely important if you experience any uncomfortable symptoms during pregnancy that you have your doctor or health care provider check you out. Trust us, they've seen it all a million times before. There's no reason to feel embarrassed or concerned. You'll feel much better for taking charge of your health, and your vagina and baby will feel much better if treated sooner rather than later in the case of an infection. Most vaginal infections are easily cleared within a week or two when proper treatment is administered. If you do develop an infection during pregnancy your health care provider is likely to keep a close eye on you during the rest of your pregnancy to make sure you don't re-develop an infection close to the time of delivery.