Pregnancy is a time of change, both physically and mentally. As a woman’s body prepares itself for nourishing a baby for the next nine months, a few visible physical changes are seen. A common one is the presence of white discharge during early pregnancy.

What is pregnancy discharge and should I be concerned?

Leucorrhoea or  pregnancy discharge as it is commonly called, is an exceptionally common occurrence during pregnancy. This discharge during pregnancy reduces the risk of infections affecting the uterus through the vaginal canal. Thin watery discharge during pregnancy or even thick white discharge during pregnancy,  in the initial stages, is absolutely normal and nothing to be worried about.

However, in certain situations, the discharge might be suggestive of an underlying pathology, especially if it smells bad. Foul-smelling (like rotten fish) yellow discharge during pregnancy is a cause of concern as it may be due to yeast infection. Likewise, if you experience intense vaginal itching, spotting (of blood), further evaluation is recommended. Gaining a doctor’s opinion on this matter is of utmost importance.

Tips while dealing with discharge during pregnancy

If you are experiencing pregnancy discharge, it is important to maintain proper vaginal hygiene. Additionally,

• Do not douche, as it can introduce new germs into the reproductive tract.
• Avoid using tampons or  other feminine hygiene products that tend to come in contact with the vagina, close to the uterus
• Most importantly, do not self-medicate. Consult a gynaecologist and follow their advice.

White discharge while pregnant can be annoying but should not lead to unnecessary worry. In the early stages of pregnancy, it symbolizes the body’s readiness to house the growing baby, while towards the end, it occurs as a signal that the body is preparing for impending labour. But under no circumstances is it a bad sign, as long as it is white!

Talk to your doctor immediately if you see red or pink stained vaginal discharge.

Also read: White Discharge During Pregnancy - Natural Protection Against Infection