Vaginal discharge during pregnancy is generally a normal condition. But if the vaginal discharge has changed color or accompanied by certain symptoms, then this condition can be a sign of an infection.
Leucorrhoea during pregnancy is caused by an increase in estrogen levels and blood flow to the vagina. The extra fluid that comes out of the cervix is actually waste from the uterus and vagina, normal bacteria from the vagina and dead cells from the vaginal wall.
In the early days of pregnancy, this fluid fills the cervical duct to create protective mucus that looks like egg white. Towards labor, this mucus will become more numerous.
Diseases that may occur
Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy is characterized by the release of clear or white and odorless liquid. However, hormonal changes and body shape make pregnant women more likely to experience vaginal infections. Therefore, sometimes vaginal discharge can turn out to be a sign of infection, including:
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis occurs when hormonal changes result in excessive bacterial growth in the vagina. This condition can result in babies born prematurely or born with less weight. Bacterial vaginosis is generally accompanied by symptoms:
Itching around the vagina
The discharge is a whitish gray liquid.
Pain when urinating.
Sometimes this condition can subside on its own. But there are times when you need antibiotic treatment. If left unchecked, this infection can spread and become pelvic inflammatory disease.
Fungal infections
Increased levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone will also increase excessive growth of Candida, a fungus that grows naturally in the vagina. If this happens, you can experience a fungal infection. Symptoms of fungal infections include:
The discharge is yellowish-white, smelling or not.
Pain during sexual intercourse.
The vagina or labia are red and swollen.
Pain and itching in the vagina.
The vagina burns when urinating.
Handling is generally done with creams or antifungal drugs.
Group B Streptococcus (SGB)
GBB bacteria are present in one in four healthy women. But in some people, GBS can cause serious infections. The symptoms of this infection are the same as the symptoms of urinary tract infections in general, such as urine that is cloudy in color, a burning sensation when urinating, and suddenly feels very eager to urinate.
In order for this infection to not be transmitted to the baby, the doctor will give antibiotics when the mother goes through labor. Unfortunately, no steps can be taken to prevent this condition.
Trichomoniasis
Bacteria that cause trichomoniasis live in the vagina and are transmitted through sexual contact. Symptoms include foaming liquid greenish yellow and foul-smelling, and an itching and burning sensation during sexual intercourse. Generally doctors will give antibiotics to deal with this condition.
If you experience the conditions above, you should immediately consult a gynecologist and avoid using free drugs. Also be aware if your gestational age has not reached 37 weeks but there is a change in the shape and color of the fluid that comes out of the vagina, for example to be liquid, bleed, change color to brown or pink. This condition can be a symptom of premature birth.
How To Prevent Infection During Pregnancy
In order for vaginal discharge during pregnancy not to turn into abnormal vaginal discharge due to infection, here are some things you can do:
Immediately replace your swimsuit or sportswear when you finish working.
Sleeping without underwear can reduce the risk of infection.
Wear cotton underwear that can reduce moisture and prevent bacterial growth.
Rinse the genitals from front to back after urinating to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the vagina.
Consume enough water to remove toxins and bacteria from the body.
Urinate regularly.
Consumption of complex carbohydrates and whole grains to prevent the formation of an environment that supports bacteria to develop.
Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
Avoid using sanitary napkins, tissues, and strong-scented soaps to treat vaginal hygiene.
Avoid wearing tight pants, especially those made from nylon.
Avoid using a sprayer or vaginal deodorizer because it risks risking closing the circulatory system to the vagina and causing serious complications.
If indeed vaginal discharge during pregnancy is normal, which is white or clear and does not smell, then nothing can be done to prevent it. But to handle it, you can use a pantyliner, a pad like a pad that can absorb excess vaginal fluid for comfort. If the complaint does not improve and becomes more disturbing, then do not hesitate to consult directly with the obstetrician
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