Leukorrhea during pregnancy
Leukorrhea during pregnancy: is this white, yellow or brown vaginal discharge normal?
Leukorrhea, or vaginal discharge, is more abundant during pregnancy. Although it is called “white discharge,” it is sometimes tinged with brown or yellow. When should you be concerned?
Why do we have white discharge (leukorrhea) during pregnancy?
During the nine months of pregnancy, leukorrhea - that is, vaginal discharge or "white discharge" - is generally more abundant. It is milky or transparent in appearance and can take on white or light yellow hues. It does not have an odor. This vaginal discharge is physiological and due to pregnancy hormones as well as the increased blood flow to the vaginal region. " By coagulating, this vaginal discharge will allow the first trimester to form the mucous plug that will seal the cervix throughout the pregnancy ".
Also, the mucous plug formed by white discharge in the uterus can crumble at the end of pregnancy when the cervix dilates. Thus, vaginal discharge is thicker, and sometimes tinged with blood. Don't panic, this is completely normal! You may be about to give birth, and meet Baby. However, be careful not to confuse this leukorrhea with bleeding. Remember, bleeding during pregnancy is often linked to health problems, or even a miscarriage . In this case, don't delay, and rush to the hospital.
When pregnant, should I be worried about vaginal discharge?
Although white discharge during pregnancy is perfectly benign, you should still be careful because certain signs suggest a genital infection. " Discharge that is even more abundant than since the beginning of pregnancy, an unusual odor, color or consistency, itching or burning in the vulvar region should lead you to consult a doctor. In short, any change should arouse attention". As soon as abnormal secretions appear, go to your doctor. This may be a sign of a minor health problem. When pregnant, you should not take any risks for your baby's health.
Abundant vaginal discharge, with a consistency of "curdled milk", accompanied by itching and redness of the vulva suggest a vaginal mycosis due to the fungus Candida albicans . This fungus, which is normally present in many areas of our body, including the vagina, particularly appreciates acidic environments. However, the hormones secreted by the placenta cause the vagina to become acidic , promoting the proliferation of this microscopic fungus. Mycosis during pregnancy is therefore a common problem, especially in the summer. But other infections can be involved: a gonococcus, the germ Escherichia coli, etc. In short, all the usual genital infections can occur during pregnancy.
How to treat abnormal vaginal discharge when pregnant?
Pregnant, faced with abnormal vaginal discharge, burning or vaginal itching, the gynecologist / midwife prescribes a vaginal swab, in order to determine the possible vaginal infection in question, then establishes the appropriate treatment (ovules and cream in case of candidiasis, for example) " These infections are benign but during pregnancy, any infection of the genital area can trigger contractions and lead to a threat of premature birth of the baby. It is therefore necessary to remain attentive and consult without delay in the event of abnormal white discharge ". To avoid endangering the health of the baby and that of the mother, as soon as abnormal white discharge appears, it is recommended to take a vaginal swab (or a self-sample available in pharmacies). Contact your doctor directly.
How to avoid genital irritation and infections during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, as before and after menstruation, vaginal discharge is often more abundant. And to prevent vaginal secretions from taking an abnormal form, a pregnant woman is led to adopt stricter hygiene measures. To take care of her vaginal flower, Vidal, the medical information book for health professionals, recommends:
- to use a mild, alkaline soap (e.g. glycerin)
- to avoid vaginal douches, deodorants, antiseptic liquids and soaps , or perfumed bubble baths, which are potentially risky for the health of the future baby.
- not to wear panty liners, especially scented ones,
- to opt for a hypoallergenic detergent, especially for underwear,
- to prefer cotton underwear, to be changed every day or more, if necessary.
Be careful, smoking while pregnant , in addition to its dangers to the health of the fetus, contributes to the appearance of genital and urinary infections in pregnant women.
In summary, vaginal discharge during pregnancy is completely normal. It becomes more abundant due to pregnancy hormones, and plays an important role in early pregnancy, when the mucus plug forms in the uterus. To keep this discharge looking and feeling normal, it is important to have healthy vaginal hygiene. If vaginal discharge starts to look different, or is accompanied by bleeding, go to a doctor, or a gynecologist. This may be a sign of a vaginal infection, or another underlying problem.
