During pregnancy, an increase in vaginal discharge is common. The discharge, known as leukorrhea, starts early in pregnancy and continues throughout the pregnancy. The color of early pregnancy discharge can provide clues about what’s going on in the body. In this article, we’ll look at what’s normal and what to watch out for when it comes to the color of vaginal discharge in early pregnancy.
What Causes Increased Discharge During Pregnancy?
More vaginal discharge during pregnancy is caused by increased estrogen levels. Estrogen causes an increase in blood flow to the vaginal area, which stimulates mucus production in the cervix. The mucus produced is known as leukorrhea and serves to keep the vagina clean and prevent infection.
The volume of discharge tends to increase progressively during pregnancy up until about the 36th week. It’s generally at its heaviest mid-way through the pregnancy. After 37 weeks, the amount usually decreases.
What Is Normal Discharge Color In Early Pregnancy?
Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy is thin, whitish, milky and mild smelling, or sometimes clear. The normal color of pregnancy discharge is typically white or slightly off-white.
As pregnancy progresses, it’s common for the discharge to take on a thicker, somewhat tacky consistency similar to an egg white. The increase in mucus production helps form the mucus plug that seals the cervix during pregnancy.
It’s also common for the discharge to take on a white or pale yellow color. Yellowish discharge early in pregnancy that resembles egg whites is not unusual.
Abnormal Colors To Watch Out For
While white, off-white, clear and pale yellow colors are thought of as normal, pregnant women should keep an eye out for abnormal colored discharge that could signal an infection or other problem. Abnormal discharge colors to look out for include:
Green
Green discharge could indicate an infection. Greenish discharge is often caused by trichomoniasis, an STD that can be passed from partner to partner through unprotected sex. Other STDs like gonorrhea and chlamydia can also cause a greenish hue. These types of infections require treatment with antibiotics.
Yellow or Grey
Thick, clumpy yellow or grey discharge could signal a yeast infection. The color is often accompanied by itching and swelling. Over-the-counter creams can usually clear up yeast infections. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
Brown or Bloody
Brown discharge or spotting could indicate old blood left over from implantation. This is common in early pregnancy. However, red, pink or brownish discharge can also signal current bleeding, which could be a sign of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Bright red bleeding and cramping requires immediate attention.
Orange or Rust Colored
Orange or rust colored discharge could be a sign of a dangerous infection called chorioamnionitis. This infection occurs when bacteria enters the amniotic sac around the baby. It requires prompt treatment with antibiotics in the hospital. Orange discharge is not common and should always be evaluated quickly.
When To Seek Medical Care
While increased vaginal discharge is normal during pregnancy, abnormal colored discharge may require medical attention. Here are some guidelines on when to contact a healthcare provider about unusual colored discharge:
– Bright red bleeding with or without cramping – seek care immediately as this can indicate a problem like miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
– Green or yellow/grey discharge with itching, burning or odor – you may need treatment for a yeast or bacterial infection
– Rusty, orange or brownish discharge – this can signal a dangerous amniotic infection that needs treatment right away
– Mucus tinged with blood or brown discharge if it’s new for you – while not always a concern, best to get checked out
– Any sudden change in amount or color that persists more than a day or two – seek care to rule out problems
How To Check Cervical Mucus
One way to get a sense of what your vaginal discharge looks like is to check your cervical mucus. Here are some tips:
– Wash hands thoroughly before checking mucus
– Wipe away any vaginal discharge present at vaginal opening
– Reach one finger into the vaginal canal towards the cervix
– Swipe your finger along the cervix to pick up mucus secretions
– Pull finger out and observe color and consistency of mucus between fingers
– Record observations and note any changes – useful for detecting ovulation or potential problems
– Check mucus multiple times a day to establish a “baseline” for what’s normal
– Contact healthcare provider if discharge color is abnormal
How To Treat Abnormal Colored Discharge
If you notice abnormal colored vaginal discharge during pregnancy, here are some general guidelines on treatment:
Green discharge
– May indicate bacterial vaginosis (BV) or trichomoniasis
– Requires a visit to prenatal care doctor for evaluation
– Antibiotic medication will likely be prescribed
– Partner may also need treatment to prevent reinfection
Yellow/grey discharge
– Points to a likely yeast infection
– Try over-the-counter antifungal cream for 3-7 days
– If no improvement, call your doctor for prescription medication
– Avoid scratching or irritating vaginal area
Bloody discharge
– Light spotting may resolve on its own
– Heavier bleeding warrants immediate medical care
– Pelvic rest often recommended
– Potential causes will be evaluated by doctor
Orange discharge
– Requires urgent evaluation to check for infection
– Hospitalization may be needed for antibiotic treatment
– Bed rest likely ordered to avoid preterm birth
– Further testing done to check on baby’s condition
Preventing Abnormal Discharge
To help prevent vaginal infections that can cause abnormal discharge:
– Practice good hygiene by washing external vaginal area daily
– Wipe front-to-back after using toilet
– Avoid potential irritants like scented soaps, sprays, tampons
– Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight clothes
– Don’t douche or use vaginal deodorants
– Have partner wear condom to limit risk of STDs
– Get checked and treated for STDs before pregnancy
– Avoid intercourse if discharge seems abnormal
– Take probiotics to promote vaginal health
Conclusion
Increased vaginal discharge is a normal part of pregnancy. Typical discharge colors vary from clear to white or off-white. Yellowish or milky discharge is also common. While these colors are considered normal, pregnant women should watch out for abnormal discharge colors that could indicate an infection. Bright red bleeding, green, grey, yellow, brown or orange discharge require evaluation. It’s important to contact your healthcare provider anytime you have concerns about unusual colored discharge to ensure the health of you and your baby. With prompt treatment of any infections, most causes of abnormal discharge are easily managed.