Discharge is one of the intimate topics that worries many expectant mothers. What is going on “there”? What causes all this discharge? In the early stages of pregnancy, vaginal discharge may increase, and at the end of pregnancy, mucus with traces of blood can be one of the signs of impending labor - this is how the mucus plug that protects the entrance to the uterus throughout pregnancy comes off. Some discharge that has a specific odor and color may be a sign of infection. In this article, you will learn about the types of discharge you may encounter during pregnancy, which ones are harmless, and which ones require medical intervention.
What discharge is normal during pregnancy?
Normally, discharge during pregnancy is clear or white, usually sticky, without a distinct odor. If the discharge leaves yellowish marks on your underwear or sanitary pad, don't worry. During pregnancy, levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone rise and blood flow to the vagina increases, so there may also be more discharge, especially in the second trimester. In fact, the discharge protects the fetus from infection, because this is how the vagina naturally cleanses itself and removes dead cells. After the full gestation period (at the 39th week), the discharge may become mucous. This is a mucus plug, which we will talk about in more detail below.
Bright red discharge, bleeding
Red discharge or bleeding during pregnancy requires immediate medical attention, especially if it is accompanied by severe cramping and abdominal pain. This may indicate a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or early labor late in pregnancy. Also, reddish discharge can accompany pregnancy and be a sign of infection.
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Is discharge a sign of pregnancy?
As a rule, discharge is not a sign of pregnancy, but at the very beginning of pregnancy, spotting is sometimes observed. This is implantation bleeding that occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. In early pregnancy, this discharge is usually pink in color, slightly paler than menstrual bleeding.
By the way, if you just recently found out that you will become a mother, we recommend calculating your approximate due date using our calculator.
Treatment of diseases accompanied by bleeding
You should not self-medicate; you should go to a clinic for medical help. Only a doctor will be able to study the symptoms in detail and determine the cause of the discharge.
Brown discharge, which is accompanied by a delay in menstruation or natural aging of uterine tissue, requires correction in diet and abandonment of bad habits.
It can be recommended to drink more water, since the problem may arise due to a decrease in water balance in a woman’s body.
If dark discharge appears as a result of diseases (cancer, erosion, infection), hormonal medications, antibiotics, chemotherapy, and dietary supplements are prescribed.
Surgery is possible in severe cases.
For additional treatment, you can douche with soda or chamomile, which will help relieve inflammation and speed up the healing process of the vaginal mucosa.
The entire course of therapy is carried out under the supervision of the attending physician.
After antibiotic therapy, measures are taken to restore the natural microflora of the vagina - lactobacilli and physiotherapy are prescribed.
The doctor must order follow-up tests at the end of the course of treatment to check how effective the treatment was.
If necessary, re-treatment is carried out.
Important! Self-treatment can lead to complications.
What discharge during pregnancy is a sign of infection?
Unfortunately, during pregnancy the body is more susceptible to vaginal infections. The reason is that due to pregnancy hormones, the composition of the vaginal flora changes, so the body is more susceptible to diseases such as thrush and bacterial vaginosis.
Any change in the color, odor, or consistency of vaginal discharge may indicate an infection, so be on the lookout for it during pregnancy. Changes also occur with bacterial vaginosis - because of it, the discharge, as a rule, acquires a sharp fishy odor and a gray, white or green color. With thrush, the discharge may be viscous, lumpy, and white. If you notice these symptoms or if anything else is causing you concern, discuss it with your doctor so that you can decide on treatment. An untreated vaginal infection can spread to the uterus, and this is already dangerous for the health of the fetus.
Brown discharge in women
Often in the practice of a gynecologist, diseases of the female reproductive system are encountered, which are accompanied by pathological discharge.
A woman should be very careful about brown discharge. Such discharge indicates the presence of bloody or bloody additions to it, which is a disorder in the female genital area.
Dark brown discharge is associated with a large amount of blood being released, while a light brown tint means less blood is being released. Discharge of scarlet blood indicates the presence of fresh bleeding (for example, due to injury to the vaginal mucosa during sexual intercourse). The blood does not have time to clot, so it has a scarlet color. Brown discharge is clotted blood.
Blood takes longer to leave the uterus when there is little of it, so it oxidizes in the process, darkening and acquiring a shade of brown and a glandular specific odor. When released, the blood mixes with vaginal lubrication and looks like brown mucus or smear.
Important! If you suddenly notice brown discharge in your vagina, then mark it on your menstrual calendar and pay attention to other symptoms.
When should you see a doctor?
If the color or consistency of the discharge changes or if there is an unpleasant odor, consult a doctor. You should also consult a doctor if you experience itching or pain when urinating. Watery or bloody discharge may mean your water is breaking or you have a mucus plug. If you are less than 37 weeks pregnant, this may indicate the onset of preterm labor. In this case, you should consult a doctor at the first symptoms. If at any point during your pregnancy you experience vaginal bleeding (more than minor spotting), see your doctor or call an ambulance right away.
What external changes occur to the mother?
As a rule, in the fifth week of pregnancy, the body is still reluctant to give up its “secret”; the woman’s outwardly interesting position is not very noticeable, even in the photo. But you should still be prepared for some changes that may accompany a woman from the first weeks.
Belly in the fifth week of pregnancy.
The size of the fetus is still too small for the uterus and abdomen to expand. Therefore, at this stage, the figure of the expectant mother retains the same proportions as before pregnancy. But progesterone, which is responsible for the onset and maintenance of pregnancy, can cause a slight protrusion of the abdomen. This is due to the fact that this hormone slows down intestinal motility, as a result of which gases can accumulate in it. But a small nutritional correction and exclusion from the menu of foods that cause flatulence can quickly return intestinal function to normal.
Breasts in the fifth week of pregnancy.
By this time, in some women, the mammary glands may increase by 1–2 sizes. And this is the only external change that is observed in the fifth week. But women whose breasts have retained their previous size also note some changes indicating that the body is already preparing to feed the baby. This is an increase in the sensitivity of the mammary glands, enlargement and darkening of the areolas, engorgement of the nipples.
What other changes in the nature of discharge should you pay attention to?
Immediately before, during and immediately after pregnancy, women sometimes experience the following changes in the nature of their discharge:
- Discharge during ovulation.
The amount of discharge (leukorrhea) depends on the day of the menstrual cycle. The amount of discharge increases immediately before ovulation (the most favorable time for conception), and it usually has a liquid consistency. Immediately after ovulation, the discharge becomes thicker and less noticeable, and its volume decreases. These fluctuations are usually noticed by women who purposefully plan a pregnancy and monitor ovulation periods.
- Mucus plug.
A mucus plug, as the name suggests, is made up of mucus that accumulates in the cervix, blocking the entrance to the uterine cavity. Its purpose is to protect the fetus from infection. Just before contractions begin, the cervix dilates and the plug comes out of the vagina. The color of this mucus is usually clear or slightly pinkish with traces of blood, and its consistency is usually thicker than normal pregnancy discharge.
- Amniotic fluid.
A few hours before the onset of contractions, the amniotic sac breaks and the water breaks. This does not always happen on the same scale as in the movies: for some, the water recedes in a small trickle, for others the volume of water may be more significant, and still others do not notice anything at all.
- Lochia.
Immediately after natural childbirth or cesarean section and separation of the placenta, new discharge appears - lochia. This is mucus with blood that is released for several days after birth. At first it is a thick red discharge, which gradually fades and becomes yellowish or white. After a cesarean section, the volume of lochia is slightly less than after a natural birth. Lochia usually lasts four to six weeks after birth.
During pregnancy, the body undergoes many amazing changes. To find out what's next for you and your baby, download our special pregnancy guide.
Periods of brown discharge in women and their causes
Before and after menstruation
Usually the bleeding at the beginning and at the end of menstruation is light. During these periods, the blood has a brown or even black tint because it is oxidized. Such discharge these days (before and after menstruation) is absolutely normal.
In the middle of the cycle
Some women experience spotting during ovulation. However, the volume of such secretions is small, and they can be either brown or pinkish in color. In the middle of the cycle, light spotting most often occurs in women who take oral contraceptives and who are already approaching menopause in age. In these cases, it is necessary to visit a doctor to rule out the presence of pathologies.
Instead of menstruation
If your cycle is a little off (a difference of up to 7 days is absolutely normal). But if your period does not come, you should consult a gynecologist.
During pregnancy
Brown discharge may be a sign of pregnancy. Light bleeding may occur 10-14 days after fertilization, when the egg attaches to the wall of the uterus.
Pay attention to other signs of pregnancy. These may include tender and painful breasts, nausea, frequent urination, fatigue, and vomiting.
Take a home test if you think you might be pregnant but your period is brown or late. Visit your gynecologist if the test is positive to confirm the result and plan next steps.
When taking oral contraceptives (OC)
Taking OCs affects the level of sex hormones, so brown discharge in women is most often normal in this case, especially in the first months of taking it. If such discharge is not accompanied by pain and has no odor, but continues longer than 3 months after starting to take OCs, a consultation with a gynecologist is necessary.
What should you avoid in mid-pregnancy?
In the second trimester of pregnancy, the characteristics of a woman’s condition suggest some restrictions and more careful behavior in everyday matters.
- Do not take medications without a doctor's prescription.
- Do not wear tight, constricting clothing.
- Never lift more than 3 kg.
- If you are involved in strength or team sports, you will have to give up training. You can move on to more gentle and relaxing activities, such as swimming, Pilates, etc.
It is in the second trimester that a woman gets used to her new role, “gets to know” the baby when he moves, and becomes attached to him. This is a period of bright feelings and genuine emotions. Do everything in your power to ensure that your future baby develops correctly and is born healthy!
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What to do if you have abnormal vaginal discharge
Pregnancy is a condition when most medications and medical procedures are prohibited. Therefore, any pathological discharge from the vagina during pregnancy should be diagnosed by a specialist. Even hidden sexually transmitted infections and inflammatory processes during pregnancy can be cured, but this must be done under the supervision of a gynecologist, strictly following all instructions.
Without fail, the expectant mother must remember the time when pathological discharge appears and the situation with which it may be associated. For example, bloody mucus may appear after aggressive sexual relations or douching. Such information will help the gynecologist quickly diagnose the problem and provide competent assistance. Contact our clinic for advice and help on the Dobrobut.com website.
Related services: Ultrasound examination Consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist during pregnancy
Treatment for retrochorial hematoma
It is recommended to treat retrochorial hematoma, mainly because only there it is possible to ensure truly complete physical rest and the absence of any stress. No promises to “lie down all the time” at home can be realized - there will always be a bunch of urgent household chores that you want to do - from cleaning to laundry. In addition, the hospital can provide emergency assistance at any time - intravenous administration of hemostatic agents, for example. If it is not possible to go to a hospital, then you should consider the option of a day visit to the clinic or staying with us for a couple of days.
Bed rest is recommended, and in order to restore the outflow of blood, it is advised to lie down with a cushion, for example made from a rolled blanket, under the pelvic area. To prevent congestion in the intestines, it is recommended to follow a diet: exclude legumes, spicy foods; products that strengthen stool or enhance intestinal motility (chocolate, coarse fiber). The intestines overflowing with gases put pressure on the pregnant uterus and increase the tone of the uterus, which increases the threat of miscarriage and increases the size of the hematoma. Also, to reduce the risk of increased uterine tone, you need to limit the consumption of strong tea and coffee.
Drug therapy consists of using drugs that improve blood clotting, due to which bleeding stops and the hematoma stops growing (tranexam, dicynon, vikasol). To relieve hypertonicity of the uterus, due to which the hematoma can grow, antispasmodics (no-spa, metacin, suppositories with papaverine) are used. In order to normalize hormonal regulation in the body, metabolic vitamin therapy is used. Progesterone preparations are used. In this case, the scheme and route of administration are selected individually by the doctor; these can be either drugs for intramuscular administration (oil solution of progesterone), or suppositories (Utrozhestan, Iprozhin), tablets (Duphaston) or gel (Crinone). It should be noted that when bloody discharge appears from the genital tract, utrozhestan continues to be administered intravaginally. Its effectiveness is not reduced!
Treatment usually lasts from 2 to 4 weeks, and, if indicated, is repeated at critical times (12–14, 20–24, 28–32, 36–38 weeks). Resorption of the hematoma usually occurs from 2 to 4-5 weeks.
Examinations in the second trimester of pregnancy
In the second trimester of pregnancy, you should also undergo some tests to exclude fetal pathology and start treatment in time if necessary. Features of the second trimester of pregnancy determine the list of necessary studies and consultations.
At 14–20 weeks, a screening test for chromosomal pathologies is required. Based on their results, the risk of having a child with the following diseases is assessed:
- Down syndrome;
- Edwards syndrome;
- trisomy, etc.
An ultrasound examination is also mandatory. It allows you to assess the harmonious development of the fetus. Additionally, the doctor evaluates the heart rate of the unborn baby, its position, and the length of the umbilical cord.
General and biochemical blood tests are also performed. The first allows you to assess the mother's hemoglobin level, since anemia during pregnancy is not uncommon. When conducting biochemistry, the following indicators are especially important:
- alpha fetoprotein (AFP);
- hCG;
- free estriol.
An obstetrician-gynecologist will definitely tell you what to do in the second trimester of pregnancy if there are abnormalities in the tests.
How does mom feel?
The unpleasant sensations that the expectant mother experiences during this period can cause anxiety. But even the strangest of them can be a completely normal manifestation of pregnancy. And if you make some changes to your daily routine and diet, then such sensations will not interfere with enjoying the anticipation of the birth of your baby.
Early toxicosis.
The restructuring of the body during pregnancy affects all organs, including the digestive and nervous systems. Hence the periodic episodes of nausea and/or vomiting that the expectant mother experiences. Normally, such urges should occur no more than 4 times a day. If nausea and vomiting become more frequent and do not allow a woman to eat normally, you should inform your gynecologist about this. This is necessary, since with excessive toxicosis, the pregnant woman’s body loses important substances and fluid, and frequent nausea does not make it possible to compensate for the losses.
Increased fatigue.
During pregnancy, the expectant mother spends energy not only on herself, but also on the baby growing in her body. And its energy needs are quite high: every second and minute it grows and develops, this requires a lot of resources. It is not surprising that a pregnant woman often experiences bouts of drowsiness and a desire to rest.
Frequent urination
. Although the uterus has increased slightly in size, it nevertheless already puts pressure on the bladder. For this reason, the expectant mother notes a more frequent urge to urinate.
Bloating and constipation
. Slowing peristalsis is the result of progesterone and the main cause of gas accumulation and constipation in the intestines. But if the expectant mother has severe toxicosis, then a delay in bowel movements may be so-called starvation constipation.
Mood swings
. Hormones are very important for the proper course of pregnancy. But they are the ones that cause strange mood swings. Within a short time, a woman can repeatedly move across the entire “scale” - from a depressed and even devastated state to a feeling of endless happiness and joy.
New taste preferences.
A pregnant woman's body is very sensitive and works in tandem with the growing baby. It is not recommended to make drastic changes to your diet; you still need to listen to your body. And if you suddenly want an unusual product that definitely won’t cause harm, then you shouldn’t deny yourself and your child.
Abdominal cramps.
Such sensations can be caused by both digestive disorders and the attachment of the fetus to the wall of the uterus.
