Abnormal vaginal discharge or fluid leaking from the vagina during pregnancy

Content provided by Healthwise

Abnormal vaginal discharge or fluid leaking from the vagina during pregnancy

Abnormal vaginal discharge

Changing hormone levels during pregnancy can affect the normal balance of organisms in the vagina. If you are pregnant and have abnormal vaginal symptoms, such as vaginal discharge or itching, talk with your doctor about your symptoms before using home treatment measures or nonprescription medicines.

Abnormal vaginal discharge may look like a symptom of a vaginal yeast infection. You can also have abnormal vaginal discharge with problems such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). BV or an STD can affect your pregnancy, so it is important to talk with your doctor and get treatment. Note: If you have symptoms of a pelvic infection or think you may have an STD, do not have sexual intercourse until you see your doctor. This will reduce the chance of spreading a possible infection to your partner. Your partner may also need treatment.

Fluid leaking from the vagina

Fluid leaking from the vagina may be a sign that labor is starting. When your bag of waters (amniotic sac) breaks, amniotic fluid will leak from your vagina. Call your doctor if you have fluid leaking from your vagina.

Credits

Last updated:	August 06, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer