When it comes to baby incubating, there are some things you know to expect: say, morning sickness, food cravings and water retention. But there are other symptoms that, for some reason, get less air time. Like, pregnancy discharge.
Yep, while it might feel all a little TMI, know that your discharge does change in the lead-up to labour. And its is one of those underrated natural occurrences that can tell you a lot about how you – and your baby - are physically doing. And who doesn't want to stay on top of that?
Let's dig in.
But first... What exactly is discharge?
Let’s go back to basics.
‘Vaginal discharge is something all women experience to some extent,’ says Dr Brooke Vandermolen, an obstetrics and gynaecology doctor.
‘It is a fluid produced by glands in the vagina and cervix that serves several functions; it keeps the vagina clean by carrying away dead cells and carries white blood cells that kill bacteria. It also keeps the vagina moist to prevent soreness developing and it lubricates it ready for intercourse.’
What happens to discharge in pregnancy?
During pregnancy, it is common for discharge to change – this is due to an increase in oestrogen levels, which causes more blood to flow to the pelvic area.
‘This extra blood flow stimulates the body's mucous membranes, leading to a rise in vaginal discharge in early pregnancy and beyond,’ says Dr Vandermolen. ‘In pregnancy, this increased discharge is needed to protect the foetus, safeguard the birth canal from infection and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina.’
What does discharge in early pregnancy look like?
Compared to outside-of-pregnancy discharge, pregnancy discharge is:
- More copious
- Whiter (although it may also be colourless)
These changes may become more noticeable as your pregnancy progresses.
How much discharge is normal in pregnancy?
Okay, so you may start to notice that your underwear feels wetter than usual; you may not. When it comes to there being a specific amount of discharge that is normal or abnormal in pregnancy, there isn’t one – every woman is different.
‘It is important to be aware of changes in your own pattern so that you can identify problems when they develop,’ Dr Vandermolen says.
Is white discharge a sign of early pregnancy?
So white discharge is associated with changes in your oestrogen levels, and, yep, could be an indicator of early pregnancy. However, it's also common at the time of ovulation – so it's very much not a decent indicator that you're expecting.
When should you worry about discharge in pregnancy?
Essentially, discharge is a window into your health. So, take note of any changes away from your norm – and consult with a medical professional.
Not sure what you’re looking for? Follow Dr Vandermolen’s five-point checklist to assess the wellbeing of your pregnancy discharge. If you're worried, call up your midwife or GP and fill them in on the sitch.
‘If your discharge becomes green, red or brown this may indicate the presence of infection.’
‘Discharge may have a distinctive smell for you. However, if the smell is noticeably different, particularly if it has a fishy or unpleasant odour there may be infection present.’
3/ Itchiness / discomfort
‘New symptoms like this may be a sign of candida (thrush) or other infections affecting the lining of the vagina.’
‘If an infection such as candida is present, the discharge can become thick or like cottage cheese in consistency.’
‘If you suddenly notice a significant increase in the feeling of discharge or wetness, it may be due to a leak in the waters around your baby rather than it coming from vaginal discharge. It is important to urgently seek advice from your medical team in such a situation.’
‘If your midwife or doctor has ruled out infection or a leak in your waters then your excessive discharge may simply be an annoying or uncomfortable symptom of pregnancy,’ says Dr Vandermolen. ‘It can’t be cured but will resolve when the pregnancy is over.’
Can’t wait nine months? Panty liners can provide comfort in the interim – be sure to change them regularly to prevent moisture irritating your vulval skin, recommends Dr Vandermolen.
‘Just be sure to avoid tampons, douches or vaginal washes, or wipes because you don’t want to interfere with your natural balance of bacteria and pH.’
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