Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy
During pregnancy there are so many changes in your body it can be hard to keep up with them. You feel bloated, your breasts are changing, and you may also have a constant vaginal discharge. Generally, while discharge is normally not dangerous, it can be inconvenient.
So what causes the discharge? As your waistline expands, and your hormones change new blood circulation in the vaginal area causes the increase in discharge known as leukorrhea. It shouldn’t smell, and it is normal. It is your body’s way of flushing out bacteria that could harm you or your baby.
There is something you can do though about the discomfort that this vaginal discharge may cause you. Changing your clothes often and wearing panty liners or maxi pads will help keep the wetness down. Douching will not help get rid of the discharge, and it could also introduce bacteria to your uterus, so you shouldn’t douche at all while pregnant.
During the third trimester, towards the end of your pregnancy, you may notice an increase in the amount and consistency of the discharge. Where it once was thin, it might be getting thicker and may be tinted with blood. This discharge is known as your mucus plug and your body expelling the plug signifies that labor is a few weeks away.
Anytime you have discharge during pregnancy that is colored, heavier or thicker than normal you should see your doctor. In some rare cases it could be a sign of vaginal infection or a problem with your pregnancy. Problems could include a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, or a STD. In most of these cases there are preventative measures that your doctor or midwife can do to solve any problems you may be having.
As always, if you have any fear that your discharge is not normal, or if you have any questions, ask your provider. It is their job to answer your questions and to reassure you that everything is going normally with your pregnancy.
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