Vaginal discharge is a normal part of being a woman. However, when you’re pregnant, you may notice some changes in the amount, texture, smell and color of your vaginal discharge. This is usually nothing to worry about, but it’s a good idea to be aware of what’s normal for you so you can spot potential problems.
What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge, also known as vaginal fluid or mucus, is a combination of fluids and cells continuously secreted by glands in the cervix and walls of the vagina. It serves several purposes:
- Keeps the vagina clean and lubricated
- Prevents infections by maintaining an acidic pH
- Indicates fertility stages by changing consistency during the menstrual cycle
Normal discharge is usually clear, white or off-white. The texture ranges from thin and sticky to thick and gooey depending on the stage of your menstrual cycle. For example, discharge tends to be thicker and creamier after ovulation to help sperm survive. It’s also perfectly normal for discharge to be tinged yellow, green or brown at the end of your cycle.
How does discharge change in early pregnancy?
You’ll likely notice changes in your vaginal discharge very early on in pregnancy as hormonal fluctuations kick in. Here’s what to expect:
Increased discharge amount
After conception, your body ramps up estrogen production, which stimulates discharge production from the cervix. You may notice a wetter discharge as early as 1-2 weeks after ovulation. The amount continues to increase during the first trimester.
Thicker, stickier texture
Rising estrogen levels also change the consistency of discharge to be thicker and stickier. This helps plug the cervix to protect the developing embryo. The mucus may take on an egg white-like quality.
White, milky appearance
Later in the first trimester, you’ll likely notice a white or off-white, milky discharge. This is called leukorrhea and is perfectly normal. The thin, milky fluid comes from the cervix, vagina and glands around the vaginal opening.
Leukorrhea happens as the body produces more estrogen and blood flow to the vaginal area increases. The discharge helps fight infection and keep the vagina clean during pregnancy. You may need to wear a panty liner to absorb it.
Less odor
Pregnancy discharge often has little or no odor due to the body’s increased ability to fight infection. If you notice a strong or fishy smell, make sure to mention it to your doctor as it could signal an infection.
No itching or irritation
Normal pregnancy discharge should not cause itching or irritation. Tell your doctor if you experience discomfort as it may indicate a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.
When to see a doctor
While most discharge changes in early pregnancy are normal, some could signal an underlying problem. Contact your doctor or midwife if you notice any of the following:
- Brown, pink or red discharge, which may indicate spotting
- Heavy, foul-smelling or cottage cheese-like discharge, which could point to an infection
- Watery discharge along with cramping, which may indicate a miscarriage
- Bright green or yellow discharge, potentially from an STI like chlamydia or gonorrhea
- No discharge at all, as this can make you prone to infection
It’s always better to get checked out if something seems abnormal for you. Tracking your discharge daily in early pregnancy can help you identify any worrying changes.
When does discharge go back to normal?
Your vaginal discharge volume will steadily decrease after the first trimester as estrogen levels decline again. However, leukorrhea can come and go throughout the rest of pregnancy.
Your discharge may turn thick, pink or slightly bloody for a few days as the mucus plug is discharged before labor. This is also normal.
After giving birth, lochia (postpartum vaginal discharge) lasts for 2-6 weeks as your body eliminates the excess tissue and blood from the uterus. Normal discharge patterns typically resume a few months after delivery and breastfeeding ends.
Tips for managing pregnancy discharge
Here are some tips for handling increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy:
- Use panty liners to absorb extra fluid and moisture.
- Change liners and underwear frequently to avoid irritation and infection.
- Choose breathable cotton underwear over synthetics.
- Clean the vaginal area daily with warm water – avoid perfumed soaps.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing and cotton leggings.
- Don’t use vaginal douches as they can cause infection.
- Discuss safe products for odor and moisture with your doctor.
When to call the doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following changes:
- Change in discharge color (bright yellow, green, brown, red, gray)
- Significantly thicker or thinner discharge
- Bad-smelling discharge
- Increase in amount that needs frequent pad change
- Itching, burning or irritation around vagina
- Sores or warts around genital region
- Pain or cramping in abdomen
- Spotting or bleeding from vagina
- Fever over 100°F
- Painful urination
Any sudden or unusual changes to your vaginal discharge during pregnancy should be evaluated right away, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like fever, itching or abdominal pain. It’s better to be safe and get checked out.
When to go to the emergency room
Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding like a period
- Severe cramps or abdominal pain
- Sudden watery vaginal discharge
- Fever with vomiting or flu symptoms
- Foul gray or yellow discharge with pain
- No fetal movement felt after 20 weeks
Heavy bleeding with clots, foul discharge or no fetal movement after 20 weeks may indicate potential pregnancy complications like miscarriage, preterm labor or stillbirth. Sudden severe pain with fever could mean an infection or other serious issue requiring emergency care.
FAQs
Why do I have more discharge in early pregnancy?
Increased estrogen stimulates your cervix and vaginal walls to produce more mucus. Higher discharge helps prevent infections in pregnancy by coating the vagina and keeping it clean and lubricated.
What color discharge is normal?
Normal pregnancy discharge can range from clear and thin to milky white and thick. Slight yellow or green tinges are also common. Dark brown, bright red, gray, green or yellow discharge may indicate an issue.
What does brown discharge mean in early pregnancy?
Brown discharge or spotting in the first trimester often occurs from implantation bleeding or changing hormones. However, it can also signal an impending miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy or infection that should be evaluated urgently.
Is watery discharge normal in early pregnancy?
A small amount of watery discharge can be normal as your mucus thins out. But excessive watery discharge may indicate amniotic fluid leak, infection, or impending miscarriage. Seek medical care if it’s heavy or accompanied by cramps.
When does leukorrhea discharge start and end?
Leukorrhea usually starts around weeks 4-5 of pregnancy and lasts until the end of the first trimester. You may see more around weeks 8-12. Discharge starts decreasing after 13 weeks but can come and go until delivery.
Conclusion
In summary, increased vaginal discharge is very common and expected in early pregnancy due to hormonal shifts. But, it’s a good idea to keep track of your normal discharge color, texture and smell so that you can identify worrying changes and alert your doctor promptly. Most discharge changes are harmless, but reporting abnormalities could prevent complications.
