Pregnancy involves big changes in a woman’s body and emotions. Many women first notice vaginal discharge as one of the body’s changes occurring during early onset of pregnancy as well as later days. Even though it’s a private matter, it naturally keeps your vagina healthy which is very important during pregnancy. Even so, different discharge can look different and noticing that difference might make some individuals feel uncertain or concerned.
Knowing what the color of discharge signals while you are pregnant can settle your fears and let you decide if the issue needs a doctor’s visit. This is a kind and straightforward explanation of what the discharge’s color might indicate about your pregnancy.
1. White Or Milky White Discharge (Leukorrhea)
A typical and usually safe type of discharge experienced during pregnancy is milky white or clear-white fluid called leukorrhea. This substance may seem very thin, a little sticky or quite creamy and usually doesn’t have any strong smell or tingling feeling attached to it. Your discharge increases as your pregnancy gets closer to birth because of extra estrogen and more blood supplying the area. It works to keep the birth canal clean and blocks infections from getting to your uterus.
It is generally considered a healthy, normal thing for this discharge to occur, particularly in the early and middle part of pregnancy. The discharge might feel heavier as you near your due date. Having creamy discharge is not an issue as long as you do not feel any unusual smells, itching, burning or odd texture. When you are pregnant, think of your body protecting both you and your baby with extra effort.
2. Yellow Discharge
The color and texture of vaginal discharge matter in deciding whether yellow discharge indicates something normal or not. Having a pale and light yellow discharge that does not have a strong odor could mean your body is just getting rid of old cells or a little bit of discharge. The same can happen if you wear clothing that doesn’t allow your skin to breathe such as tight underwear or garments made of synthetic materials.
Yet, having yellow discharge that is thick, odorous and makes the area feel burned or itchy, with redness, should be taken more seriously. This is a sign that alertness should now be adopted! Both bacterial infections and sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, could show these symptoms. Because they are uncomfortable, infections during pregnancy can raise the chance of preterm labor and of infections in newborns. If any of these troubles appear, seeing a doctor right away is the best idea.
3. Colorless, Green Or Gray Discharge
Having green or gray discharge can be cause for concern and this is why. The color itself sounds a bit mischievous, doesn’t it? If the discharge is grey or greenish and it smells badly, complaining or itching, then it’s likely to be taken as a sign of infection. Infections by trichomoniasis which is a parasitic sexually transmitted disease, are very common. Bacterial changes in the vagina leading to bacterial vaginosis are another problem.
If left untreated, the chance of these problems is higher: premature rupture of the membranes, underweight babies or premature delivery. While regular discharge is thin and has no smell, green or gray discharge usually comes out frothy, is quite thick and leaves an unpleasant odor. The good part is that most of these conditions are controlled safely using drugs that are safe for pregnant women. Catching caution very early and being open with your healthcare provider is very important, both for you and your baby!
4. Brown Or Rusty Discharge
Sometimes, brown or rust-colored blood is your body getting rid of older blood. There can be many reasons this occurs. Sometimes, implantation bleeding happens early in the pregnancy, when the egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. In some cases, it is a small amount of bleeding from the cervix that happens after sex or an internal exam. Because of increased blood flow, the cervix becomes sensitive and can cause minor bleeding in pregnancy.
It doesn’t usually mean you should worry. Nevertheless, if the discharge turns to bright red bleeding or if it leads to intense cramping, back pain or makes you feel dizzy, this could suggest a serious problem like a threatened miscarriage or placental conditions (such as abruption or previa). Excluding any complications by consulting your doctor is wise or it gets worse. Amongst the different discharge colors during pregnancy and their meaning, this one is definitely one to take caution on!
5. Pink Discharge
This light pink color is usually caused when some blood blends with normal vaginal fluids. It’s possible to have this after intercourse, during a pelvic exam or even during an early pregnancy vaginal ultrasound, given the cervix is particularly vulnerable then. It might also happen closer to the end of your pregnancy as you get ready for birth.
Light pink spotting during pregnancy can happen and isn’t usually of concern, but heavy pink discharge in the last two trimesters might suggest cervical dilation and premature labor. Sometimes, pain with discomfort or pressure might be due to an infection or issues in the cervix. When in doubt, definitely consult your healthcare provider about any pink discharge.
6. A Clear Or watery Liquid Discharge
Many women experience watery discharge all the time and it may tend to be stronger as pregnancy continues. Raised estrogen and blood make the cervix create more mucus. You sometimes may think you’ve leaked urine or feel damp under your clothes during the day and this is absolutely normal.
Yet, when the pregnancy is in the third trimester, watery discharge could be amniotic fluid. If there is a sudden large discharge or a steady trickle of fluid that feels different from normal discharge, it might be your water breaking. It is especially serious when it occurs before 37 weeks. In this case, go to the hospital right away or get in touch with your doctor to prevent any infections and secure the health of you and your child.
When To Be Concerned?
Source: Your Doctors Online
Often, pregnant women experience discharge which is nothing to worry about. Your body can usually tell you when there’s an issue that needs attention. Whenever your discharge switches in color, smell, consistency or comes with symptoms of burning, itching, pain or bleeding, you should have it examined without delay.
Surprises are a big part of pregnancy, so trust yourself. If there’s something bothering you, it’s always okay to call your OB-GYN. It’s not overreacting; you’re just trying to protect yourself which is the job of your healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts
Though nobody likes to talk about it, vaginal discharge is a straight-up sign of what is happening inside your body. Clear or milky urine and even shades like pink, yellow or green, each say something, with some colors just showing the changes happening inside and others possibly heralding you might need to see a doctor.
Pay attention to your body and be in regular contact with your doctor. It’s a wonderful experience to make life which is why you need to feel as informed and supported as possible. We are now hopeful that you are clear and undoubtful about different discharge colors during pregnancy and their meaning.
