Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy

Having an increased white discharge during pregnancy is very normal. It occurs due to the increased blood flow to the vagina, and is more likely to happen during the early stages of labor.

This discharge is a composition of the secretions from the cervix and vagina, they are basically old cells discharged from the walls of the vagina, and normal bacterial flora, which are present in the vagina.

However, having white discharge can be dangerous in the following situations.

1)If the discharge gets heavy all of a sudden. This could be dangerous as it could be difficult to identify if it’s mucus or a leaking amniotic fluid.

2) Call the doctor immediately if you notice an increase in discharge if you are not 37 weeks yet. A change in the color of the discharge i.e. it turning pink or brownish indicates preterm labor.

3)If you suspect infection in the vaginal area contact the doctor immediately. This infection may bring about lot of discomfort like itching or burning. In most of the cases it is a sign of yeast infection.

4)If the discharge is having a dirty odor, it denotes a sign of infection. One may not have itching or burning, as this is a different kind of infection. It may also be a sexually transmitted infection.

In all the above cases it is important that you contact the doctor immediately. Do not try to treat yourself by using over the counter medications of your knowledge. This is a delicate issue and it would be best if the doctor treat it.