Some colors may indicate an infection or problem
Experiencingvaginal dischargeduringpregnancyis normal.
Vaginal discharge can vary in color, texture, volume, and odor throughout pregnancy.
It can also fluctuate during the menstrual cycle.
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An increase in discharge is also one of the earliest signs of pregnancy.
Other colors, likeyellow, green, or gray, can sometimes indicate an infection or other problem.
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Whats Normal for Pregnancy Discharge?
Normal pregnancy discharge, known asleukorrhea, is usually clear or milky white and thin.
It has only a mild odor.
It is expected to experience an increase in this bang out of vaginal discharge during pregnancy.
An increase in discharge is often the first sign of pregnancy.
Discharge that requires treatment may appear yellow, green, or gray.
White and Lumpy
White, lumpy vaginal discharge may mean that you have ayeast infection.
This pop in of discharge usually resembles cottage cheese and has an off-white color.
Yeast infections are the most common fungal infections in the vagina.
They occur when there is an overgrowth of candida yeast in the vagina.
Pregnancy raises the risk of increased yeast and yeast infections.
Trichomoniasis vaginalis is treatable and may lead to poor birth outcomes if left untreated.
Chlamydiais a common STI that can cause yellow or green discharge and painful urination.
Untreated chlamydia can lead to infertility over time.
Chlamydia does not always cause symptoms, so ask a healthcare provider about getting regular screenings, if necessary.
Bacterial vaginosis can cause gray discharge that has a strong fishy smell.
The smell may become stronger after sexual intercourse.
Bacterial vaginosis is treatable.
Brown
Brown vaginal dischargeis usually because of old blood.
Pink
Pink vaginal dischargeusually indicatesspotting, a minimal amount of blood.
Experiencing a few drops of blood from the vagina in early pregnancy can be normal.
This may be a sign of implantation bleeding.
Red
Red vaginal discharge is usually sparked by bleeding and requires immediate treatment.
Possible serious causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy include:
What Causes Changes to Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge is common during pregnancy because of the physical changes inside your body.
During pregnancy, your body produces more discharge to help prevent infections that could harm the baby.
Dealing With Pregnancy Discharge
Treating pregnancy discharge varies based on the underlying cause.
If the increased amount is bothersome, try wearing a panty liner to absorb the discharge.
See a healthcare provider for vaginal discharge that has changed its color, volume, or smell.
This is especially important if you are experiencing additional symptoms like itching or pain.
Many infections that cause a change in vaginal discharge can be treated with medication.
Thoroughly dry your genital area after showering or swimming to avoid a moist environment for yeast growth.
The infections that cause changes to vaginal discharge are usually treatable with prescription medication.
Normal discharge is known as leukorrhea and has a milky white or clear color.
It is thin and has a mild scent.
An increase in normal discharge is often the first sign of pregnancy.
2021;37(5):1302-1308. doi:10.12669/pjms.37.5.4187
Center for Young Women’s Health.What is leukorrhea?.
National Center for Biotechnology Information.Vaginal yeast infection (thrush): Overview.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.STDs & pregnancy.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chlamydia.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Bacterial vaginosis.
MedlinePlus.Vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy.
Office on Womens Health.Vaginal yeast infections.
