Increased amount of vaginal secretions are thought to be normal due to the increased blood flow to the vagina and surrounding glands during pregnancy . The incidence of abnormal vaginal discharge in pregnancy is 31.5% and remaining can be normal.
When to worry?
It is considered completely normal unless there are other signs such as :
- Discharge heavier and thicker than usual
- Itching in the genitalia
- Burning urination
- Soreness
- Rashes
- Pain
- Greyish, greenish, yellowish or blood-tinged discharge
- Foul smelling discharge
These above symptoms indicate the presence of a vaginal infection or Urinary tract
infection in which case a visit to the gynecologist for a physical examination would be
needed and may require a course of antibiotics too.
Tips to get rid of it:
Keep the area clean and dry
Wear loose cotton undergarments and change undergarments 2-3 times in a day
wash the area with plain water or wipe with baby wipes after using the washroom
Avoid using scented soaps, perfumes and fragrances
Avoid sexual intercourse in case of any pain or discomfort
Avoid rough sexual intercourse
Drink plenty of water at least 2 to 3 liters
Eat a well-balanced meal and include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
Consume curd as it is also a rich source of probiotics which are needed for
growth of healthy bacteria in the vaginal secretions
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2099568/
http://www.bmj.com/content/328/7451/1306
https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/vaginal-discharge- whats-abnormal#1\
-Dr Bhavani Sagar
#Thinkhealth blog 