Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy: Causes and When to Worry

Pregnancy can change your body in many ways; some are expected, and some can be a little surprising! One of the most common changes you may notice during pregnancy is an increase in the amount of vaginal discharge. Although sometimes it may feel strange or even concerning, most of the time this is normal.

This article will help you understand why it happens, how it may change during your pregnancy, and when to consult your doctor about any concerns.

What is vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a clear, white or off-white fluid that comes out from your vagina. The uterus, cervix, and vagina produce this fluid, which is mainly made up of cells and bacteria. This discharge acts as a lubricant and helps to clean off your vagina from bacterial infection.

Having discharge is completely normal, but if its colour, smell, or consistency changes, it can sometimes be a sign of an infection or another health issue.

Is it normal to have vaginal discharge during pregnancy?

Increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy is not only normal but also expected throughout your pregnancy journey. In fact, many women notice changes in their discharge even before they realise they're pregnant, making it one of the earliest indicators of conception.

This pregnancy-related discharge, medically known as leukorrhoea, occurs due to significant hormonal changes in your body.

During pregnancy, your body makes much more of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones cause your body to make more vaginal secretions. This increased production serves several important protective purposes for both you and your developing baby by helping to maintain a healthy bacterial balance and protecting your uterus from harmful infections.

Why does vaginal discharge increase during pregnancy?

Pregnancy brings significant hormonal changes to your body, with oestrogen and progesterone levels rising considerably. Your vagina directly responds to these hormones, producing more discharge than usual.

This increase happens for several reasons. The extra discharge helps keep your vaginal environment healthy by maintaining the right bacterial balance and preventing harmful infections from developing. Your body also increases blood circulation to your pelvic region during pregnancy, which naturally boosts the activity of the glands responsible for producing this discharge.

The discharge also serves another important function – it helps create a thick mucus plug that seals your cervix. This plug acts as a barrier, preventing bacteria from entering your uterus where your baby is developing.

While the increased amount might feel unusual or uncomfortable, it's actually a normal protective mechanism. Your body is simply working to create the safest possible environment during pregnancy. 

How does vaginal discharge change throughout pregnancy?

Vaginal discharge naturally evolves throughout pregnancy as your hormone levels shift and your body prepares for childbirth. Each trimester brings distinct changes in both the amount and characteristics of discharge.

During early pregnancy, you'll experience a noticeable increase in discharge volume. This discharge typically appears thin and milky-white, differing from your usual patterns. The change occurs as rising oestrogen and progesterone levels stimulate increased fluid production to support the developing pregnancy.

As pregnancy progresses into the second trimester, the discharge continues to increase while maintaining its milky-white appearance and thin consistency. Most women find this period relatively stable in terms of discharge characteristics, though the volume may gradually rise.

In the final months of pregnancy, discharge production increases significantly as your body prepares for labour. The volume becomes much more noticeable during this stage. Near your due date, you may observe the "bloody show" – thick mucus containing blood streaks that occurs when the mucus plug releases from the cervix. This typically signals that labour may begin within days or weeks.

These progressive changes represent normal pregnancy developments. Recognising these typical patterns helps you distinguish between expected changes and symptoms that might require medical evaluation.

For more personalised information about vaginal discharge during pregnancy and to discuss your individual circumstances, consider consulting a gynaecologist. You can contact Thomson Medical to arrange a consultation and receive guidance tailored to your needs.

What causes abnormal vaginal discharge during pregnancy?

Although most discharge during pregnancy is completely normal, certain changes can signal an underlying problem that needs attention. Abnormal vaginal discharge typically results from infections or other medical conditions requiring proper treatment.

Vaginal yeast infections represent the most frequent cause of unusual discharge in pregnant women. These infections produce thick, white, lumpy discharge that resembles cottage cheese texture, usually accompanied by itching, burning, or irritation around the vaginal area. The discomfort can be quite noticeable and often worsens without treatment.

Bacterial vaginosis causes different symptoms, creating greyish or yellowish discharge with a distinctive fishy smell. This condition occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina becomes disrupted, allowing harmful bacteria to multiply.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can also trigger abnormal discharge patterns. Infections like chlamydia or trichomoniasis typically produce yellow- or green-coloured discharge. They may also cause pelvic pain, burning during urination, or general discomfort in the lower abdomen.

One particularly serious concern involves excessive watery discharge, which might indicate amniotic fluid leakage. This situation requires immediate medical attention, as it can pose risks to both you and your baby.

Any sudden changes in discharge colour, texture, smell, or accompanying symptoms warrant medical evaluation. Early detection and treatment of these conditions can prevent complications and ensure both maternal and foetal health throughout pregnancy.

How to manage vaginal discharge during pregnancy?

Dealing with increased discharge during pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but there are simple steps you can take to stay comfortable and healthy throughout your journey.

• Keep your intimate area clean:

  • Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom, use warm water for cleaning, and avoid harsh soaps or douches that can disrupt your natural balance.

• Maintain regular bathing habits:

  • Take daily showers or baths using mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water to keep your genital area fresh and prevent bacterial buildup.

• Focus on nutritious food choices:

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and excessive sugar intake to support vaginal health.

Remember that clear or white discharge without strong odour, itching, or burning is completely normal during pregnancy. If something feels different or concerning, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

When should you see a doctor about vaginal discharge?

Although white discharge is usually a normal part of pregnancy, certain changes may require medical attention. You should consult your doctor if your discharge shows any of the following warning signs:

• Colour changes:

  • Yellow, green, gray, or brown discharge

  • Blood-tinged discharge (except for light spotting in early pregnancy)

• Texture changes:

  • Thick, clumpy discharge resembling cottage cheese

  • Frothy or bubbly appearance

  • Excessively watery discharge that could indicate amniotic fluid leakage

• Odour:

  • Strong, unpleasant, or fishy smell

  • Any sudden change from your normal mild odour

• Accompanying symptoms:

  • Itching or burning sensation around the vagina

  • Pain or discomfort during urination

  • Pelvic pain or pressure

  • Irritation or swelling in the vaginal area

  • Severe pain accompanied by discharge

These symptoms often indicate infections or other conditions that require proper medical treatment. Early consultation with your gynaecologist can help address potential complications and ensure both your health and your baby's wellbeing throughout pregnancy.

FAQ

What does pregnancy discharge look like?

Normal discharge in pregnancy is clear, white, or pale yellow in colour. The consistency may vary from thin and watery to slightly thicker, like mucus. It is generally odourless or with a mild odour. The volume of vaginal discharge increases throughout pregnancy.

What are 5 warning signs of a possible problem during pregnancy?

What kind of discharge would I get if I were pregnant?

During pregnancy, you will have more vaginal discharge. It is usually thin and milky white or clear. The discharge is odourless or has a mild odour and should not be accompanied by itching, a burning sensation or irritation.

How soon do pregnancy symptoms start to discharge?

What are good signs of a healthy early pregnancy?

What’s the difference between vaginal discharge and a “show”?

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.