Vaginal discharge is defined as the secretion of a type of fluid from the vagina. It can either be white or colorless. It is common for a woman to experience this type of discharge in their life. Vaginal discharge can happen due to several reasons, one of them is pregnancy. The frequency of discharge varies from one woman to another.
Where some women can experience it daily, others may experience it once in a few days. Vaginal discharge can cause anxiety in pregnant women, however health experts believes it to be quite normal to occur in pregnancy. Let us learn more about it and ways to treat it safely and easily.
What is Watery discharge?
White colored watery discharge is called as vaginal leucorrhoea. A woman starts to experience it at the beginning of her puberty and lasts till the culmination of her menopause. The level of discharge differs from one woman to another. It mostly increases at the time of the menstrual cycle.
The main purpose of this a watery discharge is to expel bacteria and keep the vaginal region clean, and infection free. It helps expel bacteria, and keeps the vaginal area healthy, and free from infection. However, in some cases, vaginal discharge can prove to be dangerous in pregnancy.
The type and quantity of vaginal discharge depends on the monthly menstrual cycle of a woman. Due to phases like adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause, it may vary.
The normal amount of watery discharge is around one milliliter to four milliliters of discharge daily in reproductive years. If a woman is in her ovulation phase, pregnant, or taking birth control pills, then she may discharge more due to presence of increased level of estrogen level in the body.
Vaginal discharge is considered to be normal if it resembles like water, milk, or egg whites, with a mild smell. Any change in its color, consistency, and smell, can indicate an infection.
Watery discharge at different stages of pregnancy
In the First Trimester: At this stage, you will see clear discharge with a slightly fowl smell. It is due to sudden increase in the levels of estrogen hormone that leads to an increase in flow of blood to the vaginal area.
In the Second Trimester: Vaginal discharge appears white in color with thick consistency. It is also noticed to happen frequently due to increase in pregnant woman.
In the Third Trimester: You may find presence of blood along with discharge. A heavy discharge can happen close to the pregnancy due date. This can indicate either preterm labor or water breaking.
When it becomes serious?
If you find that your vaginal discharge is associated with below symptoms, then you need to consult your doctor at the earliest.
- itchiness, or pain in the vagina, or vulva
- a yellow, or green colored discharge
- a pungent smelling vaginal discharge
- white, or cottage cheese like discharge
All these signs indicate a sexually transmitted infection such as gonorrhea, or chlamydia. Viral, or bacterial infections can lead to complications in pregnancy. If there is an increase in flow of discharge, then it can be the sign of water broke. This condition requires immediate medical assistance.
Important things to consider
- Get yourself tested on a regular basis to identify presence of infection
- Ensure your vaginal area remains clean. Wash the area with soap and water to prevent any infection and smell in the vaginal area.
- Wear clean and dry undergarments in breathable fabrics, preferably cotton.
- Maintain a track at the occurrence and amount of vaginal discharge. This will help you notice any changes soon and seek immediate medical assistance.
- Keep your doctor in loop and discuss all health conditions, and issues with him. Follow the advice diligently.
Home Remedies to treat Vaginal Discharge
- Eat only fresh vegetables, and foods. Avoid processed and junk foods. Abstain from sugary foods as it leads to yeast infections.
- Consume probiotic-rich foods to prevent yeast infections. Yoghurt is good addition in your diet as it boosts the growth of beneficial bacterial in the body and prevents infections.
- Practice Kegel exercises as it will help in strengthening vaginal muscles and prevent leakage of urine.
- Drink loads of water to eliminate toxins from the body on a regular basis.
- Choose “pH balanced” vaginal washes occasionally to prevent an increase in bacterial formation in vaginal area.
Also read: Vaginal Smell During Pregnancy – Causes & Remedies
Conclusion
Though watery discharge is harmless, it can be uncomfortable. Shop for undergarments that are made of breathable cotton fabrics. The above home remedies can help you get relief from this condition to some extent. If you notice a greenish, yellowish, or grayish discharge along with smell, then it can be an indication of infection. In that case, you need to seek immediate assistance of your doctor to get it resolved at the earliest.