Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy

September 06, 2008

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Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy

by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
reviewed by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.

Normal vaginal discharge
Many women notice an increase in vaginal discharge when they become pregnant. A thin, sticky, clear or white, mild-smelling discharge is usually normal. The amount of discharge generally increases as you get closer to the end of the pregnancy. To feel fresher, you may find it helpful to wear a panty liner or thin sanitary pad to protect your underwear, and change it frequently.

You should never douche when you are pregnant.

Reasons to consult your practitioner about vaginal discharge

If your discharge is bloody, watery, changes color, has a bad odor, or you are having itching or pain in your perineal area, let your practitioner know. This could be a sign of a vaginal infection.

Sometimes when your water breaks, it comes as a trickle, instead of a big gush, and may not be obvious. If you are leaking watery fluid, and think that your water may have broken, contact your practitioner


RELATED INFORMATION

			True vs. False Labor
			Urinary and Vaginal Symptoms During Pregnancy

Created September 14, 2000
Reviewed April 07, 2003

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