White Discharge During Pregnancy: What It Means And When To Be Concerned

Pregnancy often brings a mix of emotions, from excitement to confusion, especially when understanding body changes. One of the earliest indicators of pregnancy is an increase in vaginal discharge, which tends to continue throughout the pregnancy. However, it can sometimes be unclear whether the white discharge is a normal part of pregnancy or something to be concerned about.

To clarify this, we spoke with Dr. Seema Jain, Senior Director of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, who explained when this discharge is typical and might signal a problem during pregnancy.

Is White Discharge During Pregnancy Normal?

Dr. Seema reassures that white discharge during pregnancy is completely normal and often becomes thicker as the pregnancy progresses, especially in the later stages. An increase in vaginal discharge can also be an early sign of pregnancy. This discharge, known as leucorrhoea, is typically thin, clear, or milky white, and usually odourless.

However, Dr. Seema advises that if the discharge has a foul odour or is accompanied by itching, burning, or discomfort, it is important to consult your gynaecologist for further evaluation.

Dr Seema told us white discharge occurs for various reasons, including:

• The elevated oestrogen levels that women experience during pregnancy.
• The cervix produces more mucus to safeguard the pregnancy.
• There is increased blood flow to the vaginal walls.

At What Stage Of Pregnancy Is White Discharge Most Common?

Dr Seema explained that white discharge is common throughout pregnancy, but it is often most prominent during the final weeks. In the early stages of pregnancy, the discharge is usually thin and can be clear or milky white, serving as one of the initial signs of pregnancy. As the pregnancy progresses, particularly in the last weeks, the discharge increases and may become more noticeable, often appearing as streaks of sticky, jelly-like pink mucus in the final week. This discharge is a normal aspect of pregnancy and plays a crucial role in protecting against infections by keeping the vaginal area clean.

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When Should White Discharge Be A Cause For Concern During Pregnancy?

Dr Seema noted that white discharge during pregnancy can become concerning if it exhibits unusual characteristics, such as:

• Discharge that is greenish-yellow, excessively thick, or watery.
• Discharge that has an unpleasant odour, causes burning, or itching.
• Discharge accompanied by redness, itching around the vagina, or swelling of the vulva.
• Pain during urination.
• Vaginal discharge that has traces of blood.
• Discharge that occurs with fever or abdominal pain should also be taken seriously.
• A persistent increase in clear discharge that leaks.
• A change in the discharge's consistency, such as becoming thick or jelly-like.

Any of these symptoms should not be overlooked and should be addressed without delay.

Preventative Steps Pregnant Women Can Take To Avoid Infections

Dr Seema recommends several preventative measures that pregnant women can take to reduce the risk of infections that may lead to abnormal discharge, including:

• Maintain good hygiene by frequently washing your hands, which is an effective way to prevent the spread of infections.
• Take regular baths and change undergarments often to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and minimise the risk of infections.
• Wear breathable cotton undergarments that can absorb excess discharge.
• Practise good bathroom hygiene by ensuring the vaginal area is cleaned each time after urination.
• Avoid using cosmetic or cleansing products in the genital area, as they can lead to inflammation.
• Eat a healthy diet, steering clear of products made from unpasteurised milk, and raw or undercooked meat and fish.
• Monitor sugar intake to help control discharge levels.
• Reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections by using condoms.

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