Discharge during pregnancy is absolutely normal, as there are hormonal changes that occur in the uterus, cervix, and vagina. There is usually no cause for concern. However, abnormal discharge symptoms may occur, including itching, burning, discoloration and odor. In that case, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to check for a range of infections, as listed below.

Yeast Infection

Yeast infection is common in the second trimester of pregnancy. There is a thin, white, and strange odor from this discharge. It is not dangerous but might cause unnecessary discomfort. Yeast infection is essentially the disbalancing of normal levels of yeast and acid in the vagina. It is caused by hormonal changes; the consumption of birth control pills, antibiotics or steroids; high blood sugar levels ; vaginal intercourse; douching; blood or semen. Yeast feeds mainly on the vaginal secretions, as the sugar content is higher in them. Other symptoms can be burning, itching, redness, and increase in discharge. Doctors generally recommend oral medicines or vaginal creams for treatment.

Personal care measures that you can take include wearing loose clothes, regularly washing the genital area, wiping after using the restroom, immediately showering after swimming, consuming more yoghurt, limiting sugar intake , and taking an adequate amount of rest.

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Bacterial Vaginosis

This is among the most common problems for the pregnant woman, caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. BV is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, low-birth-weight baby, uterine infection post-delivery, and preterm premature rupture of membranes. Although 1 in 5 pregnant women face this problem, it can be linked to second-trimester miscarriage. It can also increase susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections (STI) such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Nevertheless, many pregnant women still undergo normal deliveries, even if they have this problem. Symptoms include white grey discharge, and foul odor especially after sex, as the discharge mixes with semen. Some women even exhibit no symptoms at all. The healthcare provider must be consulted in case of doubts, to obtain requisite medications.

To prevent the problem of Bacterial Vaginosis in the first place, some precautions need to be taken. Practicing safe sex is important as is quitting smoking. Douching using scented sprays or soaps must be avoided at all costs during pregnancy, as it upsets the balance of the vagina.

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Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Chlamydia produces a discharge which is slightly odorous. The discharge in case of gonorrhea can be yellowish in color. Trichomoniasis produces a greenish-yellow foam like discharge. All three are associated with painful intercourse as well as urination. Medical consultation must be done immediately. However, there is not much cause for worry as these problems can be treated within days through antibiotics.

Urination

Urination can produce a slight abnormal discharge, and the best way to stop this is through Kegel exercises which is contraction and release of vaginal muscles that help pregnant women control their bladders. Keeping oneself hydrated is always essential.

Amniotic fluid

This is primarily a bag of water but can be brown, green, pink or yellow in color. The leak is not sporadic, but rather continuous. Since it is not normal for women unless they go into labor, immediate medical attention is recommended.

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