The article was professionally consulted by Dr. Nguyen Thi Minh Tuyet - Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, at Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.
Is vaginal discharge during pregnancy normal? This is a common question among women who are experiencing pregnancy for the first time and are still getting accustomed to its various signs. Let's explore the topic further to better understand vaginal discharge during pregnancy.
1. What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a term used to describe the fluid secreted from the vagina in women from puberty. This discharge is primarily influenced by the female hormone estrogen. It typically occurs at various times during the menstrual cycle, especially in the days leading up to menstruation. During sexual intercourse, increased vaginal discharge provides lubrication.
Vaginal discharge is formed by the female hormone Estrogen in a woman's genitals. Normally, vaginal discharge appears clear or white and may have a slight yellow tint. The quantity and consistency of the discharge can vary depending on the stage of the menstrual cycle. This discharge not only helps keep the vagina moist but also aids in the entry of sperm into the uterus when an egg is released. During pregnancy, vaginal discharge is considered normal as long as it has specific characteristics.
Vaginal discharge is mucus-like clear or cloudy white mucus, almost like a paste.
The amount of mucus secreted is not much, it can be released every day but only a little each day.
The amount, condition, and nature of vaginal discharge (a lot or a little, clear or cloudy white) will depend on the effects of hormones in the mother's body.
However, if white vaginal discharge appears during pregnancy, it should not have an abnormal odor or color.
Vaginal discharge is a clear or cloudy nasal discharge-like mucus, almost like a paste. The amount of mucus secreted is not much, it can be out every day, but only a little each day. The amount and condition, the nature of the discharge (more or less, clear white or milky) will depend on the influence of hormones of the mother's body. However, white discharge, if present during pregnancy, should not have an abnormal odor and color.
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2. Causes of increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy
Due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.
In the last weeks of pregnancy, vaginal discharge also includes streaks of mucus mixed with blood. This sign can warn that the mother is about to go into labor.
3. What is the condition of vaginal discharge that pregnant women need to see a gynecologist?
During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes many changes. In which, the sign of increased vaginal discharge is a very normal change when the mother is pregnant. However, if vaginal discharge appears during pregnancy, pregnant women should not ignore it, but should regularly monitor and check to see if the discharge has the following accompanying symptoms:
If the discharge has a foul odor and unusual color, the genital area is painful, red and swollen, this may be a warning sign of a vaginal infection, so you need to see a doctor soon.
In the last weeks of pregnancy, if the discharge contains a lot of mucus, possibly accompanied by pink or dark red streaks, it may be a sign that you are going into labor or due to cervicitis.
If the discharge has a sour odor, is foamy; or has an unusual color such as yellow, green, etc., then you may have a vaginal infection or sexually transmitted diseases, even if the genital area does not show signs of burning, itching or redness.
4. What should pregnant women do when there is a lot of vaginal discharge
Clean the genital area and change underwear twice a day. Limit wearing nylon underwear that is tight on the body.
You should also avoid excessive vaginal douching: this behavior will change the vaginal environment, creating favorable conditions for the invasion of pathogenic bacteria. This can also cause infections and have a negative impact on future fertility.
When bathing or after going to the toilet, you should wipe the genital area from front to back to avoid bacteria from the anus to the vagina.
Do not use scented soaps or feminine hygiene solutions with excessive scents when cleaning the genital area. Use a safe solution to clean the genital area (it is best to learn and discuss this with your doctor first).
Do not use oral medication or vaginal douche medicine without a doctor's prescription. In case of vaginitis during pregnancy, you must take medication as prescribed by your doctor (otherwise it will affect the health of both mother and baby). The doctor will be the only one to decide whether the medication is safe for pregnant women.
We hope the information provided has helped pregnant mothers identify the characteristics of normal and abnormal vaginal discharge during pregnancy. At Vinmec International General Hospital, our team of reputable and experienced doctors is always available to listen, provide advice, and offer the most suitable treatment for mothers.
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
