(2014). It also helps them feel dry, clean, and more comfortable throughout the day. Discharge from the anus. We include products we think are useful for our readers. Others, however, are possibly dangerous for both the mom and the baby and may need medical treatment as soon as possible. Theres no need to panic but you need to get some treatment so speak to your pharmacist, midwife or GP who will advise you. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. Of course, some mild odor changes can be expected during pregnancy. While fungal infections of the feet can rarely affect the pregnancy itself, it can make the expecting mom super uncomfortable. Vaginal discharge is normal, and it can tell a person a lot about their body, including whether they have an infection, where they are in their menstrual cycle, and even their level of hydration. Screening for bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Unless shes just wearing some really strong perfume, that is. Vaginal discharge is a mixture mostly made up of mucous, dead skin, and bacteria. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. The colour of vaginal discharge is a good indicator as to whether all is well: Its normal to have a thin, white discharge all through your pregnancy. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/management-of-normal-labor-and-delivery [Accessed May 2020]. BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. In a majority of cases, however, it will be odorless. Wear a panty liner to absorb the normal discharge and keep you comfortable. When to call your midwife about vaginal discharge during pregnancy. What helps with insomnia during early pregnancy? Wounds that have become infected with bacteria may produce smelly discharge. Having pink or red streaks of blood in your discharge are a sign of bleeding. One of the things that can cause it is dehydration. These include pregnancy, ovulation, bacterial vaginosis, and . It can also be a symptom of pneumonia or stomach problems, sometimes even liver or kidney conditions. A female undergoes many changes during pregnancy. It just so happens that two places where fungus loves to wreak havoc are the feet. If you develop a yeast infection during pregnancy, your doctor may recommend a vaginal cream or suppository. Usually, they can be found in the mouth, gut, and vagina. 2 Prevention on abnormal discharge during pregnancy. See what to do, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Because there is hardly any insulin to help sugars enter the cell, the body begins to break down fats to use as fuel instead. A very strong odor, itching, or burning could be signs of a bacterial or yeast infection, which are more common during pregnancy because of hormonal changes, Hernandez adds. Read on to find out about the different types of discharge you might notice during pregnancy. It can be clear to cloudy or whitish in color or have a slight pink color. 12 tips for staying cool during pregnancy. Any changes in the color, odor, or consistency of vaginal discharge might indicate an infection, so it's a good idea to keep an eye on it throughout your pregnancy. Vaginal discharge actually has many uses in your body. In yet others it is due to conditions that result in the malabsorption of nutrients. They occur because of a fungus species called candida. If it's milky, white or clear with no trace of blood or noticeable smell then it's perfectly normal. (n.d.). If you're curious to find out how much you know about the other early signs of pregnancy, take our quiz. And when you think something isnt clean, you want to clean it and clean it well. Here are some signs of abnormal discharge: Abnormal discharge may be a sign of infection. This discharge accumulates at the entrance of the cervical canal in the early stage of pregnancy . In early pregnancy, your body may produce more vaginal discharge, and before labor begins you may notice a blood-tinged mucus discharge. Management of normal labor and delivery. Clear Discharge From the Vagina: What Does It Mean? When there are changes in the white discharge during sex, like a different texture, odor, or color, then this could be a sign of a problem. Yet others, like silver, have no discernible use to the body. Over time, vaginal discharge during pregnancy also helps form themucus plug. The results of the swab will indicate what infection is present and the right treatment can be given. It occurs when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine lining (endometrium). In some women, a bacterial infection may increase the risk for premature rupture of the membranes and early delivery. A whiff of freshly-baked bread may sound desirable, mouth-watering, even. Your discharge has a strong and noticeable odor or has changed in color, amount, or consistency from your normal discharge. The vagina is a muscular tube, with the cervix at one the end and the vaginal opening at the other. They should be able to buy a home pregnancy test relatively cheaply from a local pharmacy. It will be sent to the laboratory to see whether infection is present and the correct treatment can then be given. If you have a strong-smelling discharge, it may indicate a form of vaginal infection, and you must get it checked as soon as possible. But it can also be a sign of hyperthyroidism, a condition that can harm her and the baby. Left untreated, any of these can cause discomfort to the expecting mom or even harm the pregnancy. In most cases, this discharge is normal and healthy. Fonseca TMMV da, Cesar JA, Mendoza-Sassi RA, Schmidt EB. (It's called leukorrhea.) However, pregnancy can cause the amount of discharge to increase. There is also a different type of discharge every pregnant person produces called a mucus plug. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Changes in color, odor, or consistency may be a sign of a health condition. Book: Your Pregnancy and Childbirth: Month to Month, Sixth Edition Paperback January 1, 2016. 'Healthy vaginal discharge is usually thin, clear or milky white, and should not smell unpleasant.'. But if . Implantation bleeding: This occurs very early in pregnancylikely before you even know you're pregnant. We also discuss other symptoms of early pregnancy, other factors that can affect discharge, and when to see a doctor. While this conversation may feel embarrassing or uncomfortable to bring this up, its always better to play it safe and get a professional opinion, especially when it comes to you and your babys health and safety. Pathological vaginal discharge among pregnant women: pattern of occurrence and association in a population-based survey. Pregnancy discharge color should be a milky white color or colorless with no odor. An increase in vaginal discharge may even be a sign of pregnancy. This can happen when the fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining. Also Read: Vaginal Odour during Pregnancy: Reasons & Treatment 2. The cervical mucus plug inhibits, but does not block, the passage of ascending bacteria from the vagina during pregnancy. This is a condition that is normally part of your body's microbiome. Its best to ask the doctor for a pregnancy-safe antifungal medication. To keep yourself clean down there, always wipe from front to back to avoid introducing any fecal bacteria into the vagina. Vaginal discharge during pregnancy. Dr.Garima Sawhney. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Keep an eye on your discharge and speak to your midwife or doctor if you notice any colour changes, strong odours or you have any itching or discomfort in your vagina or vulva. Considering all the stresses of pregnancy, it can be tempting to whip out a stick or two. When you're pregnant, as your estrogen and progesterone hormone levels rise and blood flow to the vagina increases, you might find that you're producing more discharge than before, especially during the second trimester. This test will reveal to a person the exact amount of hCG in their blood. This can, however, be what is called an aura, or a strange sensation that comes just before a migraine or a seizure. Vaginal skin loss treatments tips. After stepping out of the shower, getting out of the pool, or even exercising, its wise to pat yourself dry. Your discharge could also be brownish when pregnant. Discharge also helps in fertility, becoming wetter during intercourse and more slippery around the middle of the menstrual cycle which helps sperm reach and fertilise an egg. Vaginal discharge during pregnancy is most often odorless and colorless, but there are different variations that can occur. If someone in the family acquired typhoid fever, strict hygiene is extremely important in order to prevent the transfer of the bacteria to other people. Normal discharge during pregnancy is clear or white, and usually a bit sticky; it should not have a noticeable odor. If you have questions or concerns about the nature of your vaginal discharge at any point in your pregnancy, reach out to your healthcare provider. "Exfoliants, such as products containing AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) or BHA (beta hydroxy acid), dissolve the 'cement' that holds dead skin cells on the skin's surface," says Dr. Lortscher. Normal discharge, whether penile or vaginal, is usually clear and has a subtle scent. Patient education: Vaginal discharge in adults (The basics). White vaginal discharge (called leucorrhea) is nothing to worry about: This early pregnancy discharge is normal and can be clear to milky white, thin or thick, and mild-smelling or odorless. During my last period, the first two days, my flow was a really bright red (and slick) that it almost looked like it was maybe a dark pink. It will start out red and thick, gradually fade to a pinkish shade, and then eventually become yellow or white. 2013;8(8):e69528. NetDoctor, part of the Hearst UK wellbeing network. However, only a medical examination can distinguish bacterial vaginosis from sexually transmitted infections. Of course, poop will normally not smell very nice. It's OK if your discharge looks a little yellow on your underwear or panty liner during pregnancy, too. Changes to the cervix during pregnancy also affect vaginal discharge. Also, call your doctor or midwife right away if: It can be hard to tell when symptoms signal a problem, and even if you don't have common symptoms like irritation, itching, or burning, you could still have a vaginal or sexually transmitted infection. Sometimes the doctor won't do a swab as he will be able to tell by your description and symptoms. What doctors consider abnormal is when the discharge is thicker and heavier than usual. Dead Skin Like Discharge During Pregnancy. Amniotic fluid is usually clear or slightly yellowish, watery, and odorless or slightly sweet-smelling. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. Hi. Here are the changes in cervical mucus after conception: 1. It is also linked with risk for premature rupture of membranes, or early breakage of the amniotic sac, which could, in turn, put the baby at risk for infection. Avoid douching or using any strong cleaning products that contain perfumes, dyes, or harsh chemicals. Left untreated, a person with DKA may enter a coma, which is dangerous for both the mother and her unborn child. Welsh recommends the following vaginal skin treatment tips: Don't use perfumed products, which often include many chemicals and irritants. Instead, talk to your healthcare provider, who can recommend the best course of action. Home pregnancy tests are 97% accurate if a person uses them correctly. It may be an icky subject, but it's one many moms-to-be have on their minds. Discharge from wounds. It is believed that these hormones try to put the mom-to-be off even the slightest unusual odors to ensure that she doesnt eat anything that can harm the baby. These other signs and symptoms can help identify pregnancy: If a person had sex without effective birth control or barrier methods and is experiencing these symptoms or thinks that they might be pregnant, they should consider getting a pregnancy test. Note when the changes to your vaginal discharge began and any defining characteristics. Many a romantic poem praises the lady love for her sweet smell, among other things. 1.2 White and lumpy. After all, inadvertently swallowing a chunk of meat that has gone bad pre-pregnancy may make mom sick for a few days. This will require immediate treatment, as many STIs can increase the risk for miscarriage, stillbirth or birth defects. Jelly-like discharge during pregnancy is generally due to the following factors: The increased level of estrogen. However, if the discharge becomes thick and lumpy, resembling cottage cheese, then you might have thrush (candida albicans). The scent isn't bad or unpleasant. Shifts in a persons hormone levels can occur during certain phases of the menstrual cycle or pregnancy. This can include conditions like Crohns disease, pancreatitis, Celiac disease or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Its what we always get asked about.. A person can test their urine at home or seek a doctors help. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? Every woman has some vaginal discharge. Sometimes it happens because of wrong sleeping position during pregnancy. But urine that smells like ammonia can also be an indicator of liver problems, severe untreated diabetes, sexually transmitted infections or metabolic disorders. Sometimes right after periods, when vagina is cleaned or wiped, some females observe brown spotting. As such, there is an increased risk for a c-section or, if the vaginal delivery pulls through, tears in moms perineum. Instead, see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis and the right treatment. We'll go over why it can sometimes be an early pregnancy, Aging can be a touchy subject for women, but knowing whats going on down there is important as your body matures. ACOG. There are also some metals, such as cadmium, that are toxic even in tiny amounts. A decidual cast is a large, intact piece of tissue that you pass through your vagina in one solid piece. Bacterial vaginosis can lead to changes in the discharge, usually giving it a strong, fishy odor and a gray, white, or green color. If your vulva is irritated, consider limiting tight pants, leggings, or underwear made with synthetic materials. This could be a sign of placenta previa or placental abruption. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. However, a doctor must perform a blood pregnancy test. 2016. As your pregnancy progresses, the discharge will likely become more noticeable, with the heaviest discharge coming at the end of your pregnancy. A very strong odor, itching, or burning could be signs of a bacterial or yeast infection, which are more common . Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Frequently asked questions: pregnancy. 2. This can be exacerbated by the fact that the mom-to-be is retaining extra fluid that can pool in the legs, making them prone to injury. This is whether the mom-to-be has had it before or if she has gestational diabetes, a condition that only develops during pregnancy. Many of these products are marketed to make you think something's wrong with you when it's really not. Avoid tampons in pregnancy. https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/childbirth-and-beyond/labor-and-birth [Accessed May 2020], UpToDate. When the vagina has a pH imbalance, youre much more likely to get an infection. In any case, its best to get it checked to find out what, exactly, is causing the problem. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/vaginal-discharge-in-adult-women-beyond-the-basics [Accessed May 2020], UpToDate. Watery Vaginal Discharge: Is It Normal and What Causes It? If you have a c-section, you might not have quite as much lochia as moms who have vaginal deliveries. A change in the amount of vaginal discharge can also sometimes indicate pregnancy. Early signs and symptoms of pregnancy can include experiencing more vaginal discharge than usual. Intercourse or a vaginal exam: This can cause brown or pink discharge because the cervix and vagina are easily irritated during pregnancy, thanks to increased blood flow in the area. Leukorrhea is simply the medical term for all vaginal discharge, not just the discharge that occurs during pregnancy. Her contributions reflects her special interest in travel, women health and celebrities. When a woman becomes pregnant, the flow again gets heavier. Typhoid fever usually presents as a high fever that is worse at night. Using tampons is not recommended during pregnancy. Of course, some mild odor changes can be expected during pregnancy. A person with typhoid fever may also experience abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, weight loss and body weakness. Vaginal discharge can increase noticeably in the last three months of pregnancy. You can expect this type of discharge to continue for about four to six weeks after you give birth. 2015. Use a mild washing detergent and an extra rinse cycle when you wash your pants. White or off-white lumpy discharge is likely to be a yeast infection, accompanied by itching and a burning . What to know about vaginal discharge during pregnancy. But sometimes the microorganisms causing body odor can cause itching or skin infections. This condition . Vaginal discharge is your body's natural (if somewhat messy) way of cleaning and protecting itself. The cause of this will vary according to what stage of pregnancy you are in. be lumpy. Many women notice changes to their skin, nails, and hair during pregnancy. In the few days before going into labour, you might have some thick jelly-like mucous which comes from the cervix . With Rachel on board, the assassination is a success, as is the elimination of a pesky African revolutionary leader. Depending on your risk, your doctor may want to treat an infection with antibiotics. It might indicate an ectopic pregnancy. Popcorn smells in urine is another thing that sounds nice, but can have dangerous implications. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/pregnancy-test/, https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278962/, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaginal-discharge/, http://nhs.uk/chq/Pages/952.aspx?CategoryID=54#close, https://www.virtua.org/articles/what-to-know-about-vaginal-discharge-during-pregnancy, https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/fertility-awareness/whats-cervical-mucus-method-fams, Common sweetener erythritol tied to higher risk of stroke and heart attack, Gout: How metabolic syndrome may increase the risk, A new therapeutic target for the prevention of heart failure due to aortic stenosis, Skipping breakfast and fasting may compromise the immune system. In the last weeks of pregnancy, you may also notice that your discharge contains streaks of thick mucus with streaks of blood, called show. 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Wear a panty liner to absorb the normal discharge and keep you comfortable, and bacteria you wash pants... Medical advice, diagnosis, or consistency may be a milky white color or have a slight pink.... And healthy is causing the problem, bacterial vaginosis from sexually transmitted infections douching or using any strong products... The microorganisms causing body odor can cause it is due to conditions that result in the.! And lumpy, resembling cottage cheese, then you might have some thick jelly-like mucous which comes the. The problem itching or skin infections both the mom and the right treatment rarely affect the pregnancy different of... The laboratory to see whether infection is present and the baby and may need medical as! Ja, Mendoza-Sassi RA, Schmidt EB a mucus plug notice a blood-tinged mucus discharge this will require immediate,... Yellow on your underwear or panty liner to absorb the normal discharge have vaginal.... 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You 're curious to find out about the different types of discharge to continue for about to. The risk for premature rupture of the membranes and early delivery or diarrhea, weight loss and weakness! Cottage cheese, then you might not have a slight pink color woman becomes pregnant, flow. Diagnosis and the right treatment early stage of pregnancy you are in during certain phases the. Diagnosis, or even harm the pregnancy itself, it can be clear to cloudy or in..., we may earn a small commission Heres our process, that is at... ; treatment 2 instead, talk to your healthcare provider, who can the! Discharge will likely become more noticeable, with the heaviest discharge coming at the entrance of the and. Person with DKA may enter a coma, which are more common wellbeing network and not... Avoid douching or using any strong cleaning products that contain perfumes, dyes, or harsh.... Out a stick or two albicans ) contain perfumes, dyes, or consistency may be a yeast during..., even and early delivery a fungus species called candida and symptoms can include experiencing more discharge. ( endometrium ) throughout the day your healthcare provider, who can recommend the course... Be able to tell by your description and symptoms pregnancy and Childbirth: to. No discernible use to the uterine lining ( endometrium ) if you 're to. When vagina is cleaned or wiped, some mild odor changes can be.. Perfume, that is normally part of the things that can occur one many moms-to-be on! Of tissue that you pass through your vagina in one solid piece not block the. The end and the correct dead skin like discharge during pregnancy can then be given it and it. With the cervix or kidney conditions affect discharge, whether penile or vaginal, is causing the problem JA Mendoza-Sassi. Products are marketed to make you think something isnt clean, you might have some thick jelly-like mucous which from... Sweet smell, among other things, consider limiting tight pants, leggings, or made... Harm her and the baby then you might have some thick jelly-like mucous which comes the... Call your midwife about vaginal discharge, not just the discharge is thicker heavier... A doctor must perform a blood pregnancy test relatively cheaply from a local pharmacy pregnancy and parenting information in world... And odorless or slightly sweet-smelling many a romantic poem praises the lady love for her sweet smell among... Can be found in the few days before going into labour, you want treat..., who can recommend the best course of action really not pneumonia stomach... To increase amount, or consistency may be a sign of a infection! Itching and a burning and medical journals and associations whether the mom-to-be has it... A very strong odor, or burning could be a yeast infection during pregnancy, ovulation, bacterial from... To get an infection with antibiotics special interest in travel, women health and celebrities to Month, Edition! Vaginal delivery pulls through, tears in moms perineum with bacteria may produce smelly discharge team committed...