Understanding White Discharge in Early Pregnancy
White vaginal discharge is not uncommon in women. However, an increased volume of discharge or a change in its color and texture can indicate an issue. Sometimes, an increased amount of white discharge can indicate pregnancy.
If you notice a drastic change in your vaginal discharge and it looks unusual, it’s best to visit a pregnancy hospital in Navi Mumbai to rule out the possibility of an infection or other health issues. Let’s learn more about the causes of white discharge, what it looks like, and how to manage it.
Causes of White Discharge in Early Pregnancy
Pregnancy-related vaginal discharge is called leukorrhea—a thin, white vaginal discharge that’s often seen in your early pregnancy.
During pregnancy, your primary reproductive hormones—estrogen and progesterone—increase rapidly. This leads to increased blood circulation to your pelvic floor, causing an increase in vaginal discharge.
Your pregnancy hormones result in the formation of mucus plug in your cervix, which creates a barrier protecting your uterus from infection. The cervical mucus can also cause excess white discharge. The cervical mucus leaks upon reaching full-term pregnancy.
Characteristics of White Discharge in Early Pregnancy
White discharge during pregnancy looks similar to the vaginal discharge you experience regularly. It can be thin, clear, or milky-white. What’s not common is a change in the texture of this discharge in early pregnancy. If the discharge becomes thicker or it keeps leaking continuously, it might indicate an underlying issue.
Pregnant women can experience white discharge throughout their pregnancy, and that’s completely normal as long as it’s not thick, has a jelly-like texture, or has lumps. Abnormal vaginal discharge also has a strong, unusual, fishy odor.
Vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy or at any stage during pregnancy is never normal. Sometimes, pink, brownish, or red discharge in early pregnancy indicates implantation bleeding. It can also occur later in your pregnancy, especially after a pelvic exam or sexual intercourse. Note that any kind of bleeding should be reported to a gynecologist and obstetrician in Navi Mumbai.
Managing White Discharge in Early Pregnancy
Normal white vaginal discharge in early pregnancy is absolutely normal and can be managed at home. These tips will help:
- Do not use scented products, soaps, or vaginal creams unless prescribed by your gynecologist
- Keep your vagina clean and dry to prevent infection
- You can wear pads to soak white discharge. Avoid tampons.
- Avoid douching during pregnancy.
- Avoid using wet wipes. Your genital area has self-cleansing properties. Using chemical-based wipes can irritate your genital tract and can affect your pH level.
- Always clean your vagina front to back after emptying the bowels.
- Do not wear tight panties or jeans. Avoid nylon and polyester fabrics.
- Drink enough fluids to stay hydrated and eat a balanced and healthy diet.
Conclusion
White vaginal discharge or leukorrhea occurs during early pregnancy, and it might continue throughout pregnancy. If you notice any unusual discharge, change in color, or the amount, seek medical advice. Sometimes, vaginal discharge, especially if it’s green or yellow, indicates an infection.