Leucorrhoea, flow of a whitish, yellowish, or greenish discharge from the vagina of the female that may be normal or that may be a sign of infection. Such discharges may originate from the vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or, most commonly, the cervix. Leukorrhea may occur during pregnancy and is considered normal when the discharge is thin, white, and relatively odourless.
Physiologic leukorrhea is a normal condition occurring within several months to a year of the onset of menses in adolescent girls and is sometimes present in newborn girls, usually lasting one to two months. However, in many cases, leukorrhea is a sign of infection, especially when the discharge is yellow or green, has an offensive odour, and is accompanied by irritation, itching, pain, or tissue inflammation.
Abnormal leukorrhea may be caused by infections with bacteria, yeast, or other microorganisms.
What causes Leukorrhea during pregnancy?
When you’re expecting, an increase in estrogen levels causes increased blood flow to the pelvic area. More blood flow stimulates the body’s mucous membranes, leading to an increase in vaginal discharge in early pregnancy and beyond. And it has an important purpose: Pregnancy discharge removes dead cells from the vagina, protects the birth canal from infection and maintains a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Is white vaginal discharge normal during pregnancy?
Thin, white vaginal discharge is normal and healthy throughout your entire pregnancy. However it could be a sign of an infection if it’s lumpy or thick, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms (like itching or a fishy odor).
Tips on what to do about vaginal discharge when you’re pregnant:
- Bathe regularly and wear underpants with breathable cotton liners.
- Wear pads or panty liners.
- Leave the douches at the drugstore.
- Don’t bother with wipes.
When to call the doctor about vaginal discharge during pregnancy?
Call your doctor if:
- Your discharge is yellowish, greenish or thick and cheesy
- Your vagina has a foul or fishy odor
- The inside of your vagina and/or your vulva burns or itches
- It burns when you urinate
- Sex is painful