Green Discharge During Pregnancy? It Could Be an Infection

Quick take: Green discharge during pregnancy is often a sign of a vaginal infection, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) or trichomoniasis, and warrants a call to your healthcare provider. While not all green discharge is cause for alarm, especially if it's very light or odorless, any noticeable change in color, consistency, or smell, or if accompanied by itching, burning, or pain, needs prompt medical evaluation to protect both your health and your baby's.

It's 2 a.m., you're already feeling a cocktail of pregnancy symptoms, and then you notice something new and unsettling: green discharge. Your heart might skip a beat, and suddenly, you're on your phone, desperately searching for answers. We understand that feeling of immediate worry. Vaginal discharge can be a confusing topic at the best of times, and during pregnancy, every new symptom feels amplified by concern for your baby.

The good news is that while green discharge often signals an infection, many of these are treatable and, when caught early, pose minimal risk. The key is to know what to look for, what it might mean, and most importantly, when to reach out to your doctor or midwife. This article will walk you through the common causes of green discharge during pregnancy, explain when to be concerned, discuss treatment options, and help you understand how to protect yourself and your baby.

We'll cover everything from bacterial vaginosis to STIs, differentiate between normal and abnormal discharge, and give you practical advice on prevention and when to seek immediate care. Take a deep breath — we're here to provide clear, compassionate, and evidence-based information to ease your mind.

What causes green discharge during pregnancy?

Green discharge during pregnancy is most commonly caused by a vaginal infection. While it's natural to feel anxious, many of these infections are treatable, especially when identified early. Understanding the potential culprits can help you have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is one of the most common vaginal infections during pregnancy. It occurs when there's an imbalance in the natural bacteria found in the vagina. Normally, "good" bacteria (lactobacilli) keep "bad" bacteria in check. With BV, the "bad" bacteria overgrow. While BV discharge is often described as grayish-white and thin, it can sometimes appear yellowish-green, especially if left untreated. It's typically accompanied by a strong, fishy odor, which often becomes more noticeable after sex.

• Symptoms: Fishy odor (especially after sex), thin grayish-white or yellowish-green discharge, itching, burning during urination.
• Why it's common in pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can alter the vaginal pH, making some women more susceptible to BV.

Trichomoniasis (Trich)

Trichomoniasis, often simply called "Trich," is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a tiny parasite. It's highly treatable but can lead to green, frothy, or bubbly discharge. This discharge usually has a foul or "musty" smell. Trich can also cause discomfort, including itching, burning, and pain during urination or sex.

• Symptoms: Green, yellow-green, or grayish, frothy discharge with a strong, unpleasant odor; itching, burning, redness, or soreness of the genitals; discomfort during urination or sex.
• Transmission: It's spread through sexual contact, even if there are no symptoms.

Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

While BV and Trich are the most frequent causes of green discharge, other STIs can also lead to changes in vaginal discharge, sometimes appearing greenish. These include:

• Chlamydia: Often asymptomatic, but can cause abnormal discharge (sometimes yellowish or greenish), painful urination, and lower abdominal pain.
• Gonorrhea: Similar to chlamydia, it can cause increased vaginal discharge that may be yellowish or greenish, painful urination, and vaginal bleeding between periods.

It's crucial to get tested for STIs if there's any suspicion, as they can have serious implications for both the pregnant person and the baby if left untreated.

Yeast Infections (Candidiasis)

While classic yeast infection discharge is typically thick, white, and cottage-cheese-like, severe or prolonged infections can sometimes present with a yellowish or very light greenish tint, particularly if mixed with other discharge or if there's irritation. Yeast infections are incredibly common in pregnancy due to hormonal shifts. They are usually accompanied by intense itching and burning.

• Symptoms: Intense vaginal itching and burning, thick, white, "cottage cheese" discharge (sometimes slightly yellowish-green), redness and swelling of the vulva, pain during sex or urination.
• Why it's common in pregnancy: Increased estrogen levels and higher glycogen in vaginal cells create a more favorable environment for yeast to grow.

Cervicitis

Cervicitis is inflammation of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It can be caused by infections (like STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhea) or non-infectious factors. When caused by an infection, it can lead to purulent (pus-like) discharge that may appear greenish or yellowish, often accompanied by bleeding after sex or between periods, and pelvic pain.

Understanding these potential causes is the first step. The next is recognizing when these changes warrant immediate medical attention.

When should I be concerned about green discharge during pregnancy?

A

You should be particularly concerned and call your doctor or midwife right away if your green discharge is accompanied by any of the following:

• Foul or strong odor: Especially a "fishy" or "musty" smell, which is highly indicative of BV or trichomoniasis.
• Itching, burning, or irritation: Persistent and intense itching or a burning sensation in or around the vagina suggests an infection like a yeast infection, BV, or Trich.
• Pain or discomfort: This includes pain during urination, pain during sexual intercourse, or general pelvic discomfort or cramping.
• Redness or swelling: Inflammation of the vulva or vaginal area can be a sign of infection and irritation.
• Frothy or bubbly texture: This specific characteristic is a hallmark symptom of trichomoniasis.
• Fever or chills: These systemic symptoms could indicate a more widespread infection that needs immediate attention.
• Abdominal pain: Lower abdominal pain, especially if severe or accompanied by other symptoms, could signal a more serious infection affecting the uterus or pelvic organs.
• Bleeding or spotting: Any new bleeding or spotting alongside green discharge should always be reported to your provider.

Even if the green discharge is light green and seems to have no smell, it’s still important to mention it to your provider at your next appointment. Sometimes, symptoms can be subtle, especially in early pregnancy. For example, some women might experience light green discharge early in pregnancy with no strong odor, but it could still be an early sign of an infection that needs to be addressed.

One reader described feeling "a bit off" with a very faint, almost yellowish-green discharge in her third trimester, but no strong smell or itching. She decided to mention it to her midwife, who performed a quick test. It turned out to be a mild case of BV that was easily treated with antibiotics, preventing any potential complications. This highlights why even subtle changes warrant a check-up.

In the third trimester, green discharge can be particularly concerning because certain untreated infections might increase the risk of preterm labor or premature rupture of membranes. Don't hesitate to reach out to your care team; they are there to help you navigate these worries.

What are the treatment options for green discharge during pregnancy?

The treatment for green discharge during pregnancy depends entirely on the underlying cause. Once your doctor or midwife diagnoses the specific infection, they will prescribe pregnancy-safe medications. It's crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is completely cleared.

Treating Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

BV during pregnancy is typically treated with antibiotics. The most common options are:

• Oral Metronidazole: This is a commonly prescribed antibiotic that is considered safe during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester.
• Clindamycin: Available in oral form or as a vaginal cream/gel. Vaginal creams or gels can be effective and directly target the infection.
• Oral Clindamycin: Also considered safe and effective.

Your doctor will choose the best option based on your specific situation and trimester. It's important to avoid douching, scented feminine products, and harsh soaps, as these can disrupt the vaginal flora and potentially worsen or recur BV.

Treating Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is also treated with antibiotics, specifically:

• Oral Metronidazole: This is the most effective and commonly prescribed medication for trichomoniasis during pregnancy. It's safe and helps clear the parasitic infection.
• Tinidazole: While effective, tinidazole is generally not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy and is used cautiously later in pregnancy, so metronidazole is usually preferred.

If you're treated for trichomoniasis, it's essential that your sexual partner(s) also get treated to prevent re-infection. You should abstain from sex until both you and your partner(s) have completed treatment and are symptom-free.

Treating Yeast Infections

Yeast infections during pregnancy are typically treated with topical antifungal medications. These are considered safe as they are not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream.

• Vaginal Creams or Suppositories: Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal treatments containing miconazole, clotrimazole, or terconazole are often recommended. Your doctor might prescribe a specific strength or duration.
• Oral Antifungals (like Fluconazole): While a single dose of oral fluconazole is often used for yeast infections outside of pregnancy, its use during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is generally avoided or used with caution due to potential, albeit small, risks. Your doctor will likely opt for topical treatments first.

Always consult your doctor before using any over-the-counter medication during pregnancy, even for a common yeast infection.

Treating STIs (Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, etc.)

Treatment for other STIs during pregnancy is also antibiotic-based and carefully chosen to be safe for both mother and baby. For example:

• Chlamydia: Often treated with azithromycin or amoxicillin.
• Gonorrhea: Typically treated with an injectable antibiotic (like ceftriaxone), sometimes combined with an oral antibiotic.

As with trichomoniasis, sexual partners must also be treated for STIs to prevent re-infection and further spread. Your doctor will provide specific guidance and ensure you receive appropriate and safe treatment.

It’s vital to remember that self-treating green discharge with home remedies or unprescribed medications is not recommended during pregnancy. Only a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the cause and prescribe a safe and effective treatment plan.

Can green discharge during pregnancy affect my baby?

This is often the biggest worry for expecting parents when they discover green discharge. The good news is that with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most infections causing green discharge can be resolved without harm to your baby. However, if left untreated, some infections can pose risks to both you and your developing baby.

Potential Risks to the Baby from Untreated Infections

The specific risks depend on the type of infection and how far along you are in your pregnancy. Here are some of the key concerns:

• Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM): Infections like BV and trichomoniasis have been linked to a higher risk of PROM, where your water breaks too early before labor begins.
• Preterm Labor and Preterm Birth: Untreated BV and trichomoniasis, especially, can increase the risk of preterm labor, leading to your baby being born too early (before 37 weeks of pregnancy). Babies born prematurely face a higher risk of health problems.
• Low Birth Weight: Preterm birth can also lead to low birth weight, which is associated with various health challenges for the baby.
• Postpartum Endometritis: This is an infection of the lining of the uterus after childbirth. While it affects the mother, it's a complication that can arise from untreated infections during pregnancy.
• Transmission during birth: Some infections, particularly certain STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and sometimes trichomoniasis, can be passed to the baby during vaginal delivery. This can lead to serious health issues for the newborn, such as eye infections (conjunctivitis), pneumonia, or other systemic infections.

For example, if a pregnant person has untreated chlamydia, the baby could develop chlamydial conjunctivitis (an eye infection) or pneumonia after birth. Similarly, gonorrhea can cause severe eye infections in newborns.

Reassurance for Expecting Parents

It’s important not to panic. The reason healthcare providers emphasize prompt treatment is precisely to prevent these potential complications. Most infections caught and treated early have a very good prognosis. The placenta and amniotic sac provide a protective barrier for your baby, and many infections are limited to the vaginal area.

The key takeaway here is to always report any unusual discharge or symptoms to your doctor or midwife. They are skilled at diagnosing and treating these conditions safely during pregnancy, minimizing any risk to your precious little one. Your vigilance is one of the best ways to protect your baby's health.

Is all green discharge during pregnancy a sign of infection?

While green discharge during pregnancy is a strong indicator of an infection and should always prompt a call to your healthcare provider, it's important to understand that not every subtle greenish tint or discharge change means a serious problem. Sometimes, what you perceive as "green" might be a slight color variation of normal discharge or related to other factors.

When Green Might Not Be "Infection Green"

In some cases, discharge that appears slightly greenish might be due to:

• Very light green or yellowish-green without other symptoms: Sometimes, normal vaginal discharge can take on a very faint yellowish or even slightly greenish tint when it dries on underwear or mixes with urine. This is especially true if there are no other accompanying symptoms like odor, itching, or irritation.
• Dietary factors: Rarely, certain foods or supplements, particularly those with strong dyes or chlorophyll, might subtly affect the color of urine or discharge, though this is less common for *green* discharge.
• Traces of blood: Old blood can sometimes appear brownish or even slightly greenish-brown when mixed with discharge, which might be mistaken for an infection. However, any blood in discharge should always be reported to your doctor.
• Medication or supplement residue: If you use vaginal suppositories (like progesterone during early pregnancy) or certain creams, the residue can sometimes mix with discharge and alter its appearance.

A helpful way to differentiate is to consider the other characteristics of the discharge:

• Odor: If there's no foul or unusual smell, it's less likely to be BV or Trich.
• Consistency: Is it thin and watery, thick and clumpy, or frothy? Abnormal consistency (like frothy or very thin) is a red flag.
• Associated symptoms: The absence of itching, burning, pain, or redness makes an infection less likely, though still not impossible.

Many moms tell us the same thing: "I noticed a tiny bit of green, but it didn't smell, and I felt fine." In these situations, while still worth mentioning to your doctor, the urgency might be lower than if it were accompanied by a strong odor or discomfort. Your doctor will likely ask detailed questions about all these factors to determine if testing is needed.

However, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Because infections can sometimes present with subtle symptoms, especially in early pregnancy, and because the consequences of untreated infections can be significant, we always recommend contacting your healthcare provider if you notice any green discharge, regardless of other symptoms. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and ensure peace of mind.

How to prevent green discharge during pregnancy?

While you can't prevent all causes of green discharge (especially those related to hormonal shifts), there are many practical steps you can take to maintain good vaginal health and reduce your risk of developing infections during pregnancy. These tips focus on hygiene, safe practices, and supporting your body's natural balance.

Maintain Good Hygiene

• Wipe front to back: This simple but crucial habit prevents bacteria from the rectum from entering the vagina.
• Avoid douching: Douching disrupts the natural pH balance and healthy bacteria in the vagina, increasing your risk of infections like BV and yeast infections. The vagina is self-cleaning, and douching does more harm than good.
• Use mild, unscented products: Avoid harsh soaps, scented bubble baths, feminine sprays, and perfumed wipes near your vaginal area. These can cause irritation and disrupt the vaginal flora. A gentle, unscented soap and water are all you need for external cleansing.
• Shower daily: Regular showering helps keep the external genital area clean, especially important during pregnancy when discharge often increases.

Wear Breathable Underwear and Clothing

• Choose cotton underwear: Cotton is breathable and helps absorb moisture, creating a less hospitable environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Avoid synthetic fabrics like nylon or silk as your primary underwear choice.
• Avoid tight clothing: Tight pants, leggings, and underwear can trap heat and moisture, which can encourage bacterial and yeast overgrowth. Opt for looser-fitting clothing, especially during warmer months.
• Change out of wet clothing promptly: Don't stay in wet swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes for extended periods, as moisture can promote yeast growth.

Practice Safe Sex

• Use condoms: If you are not in a monogamous relationship or your partner has other sexual partners, using condoms consistently and correctly can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can cause abnormal discharge.
• Get tested: If you or your partner have multiple partners, regular STI testing is important. Discuss your sexual health history with your provider.

Support Your Vaginal Microbiome

• Consider probiotics: Some evidence suggests that consuming probiotics (found in yogurt with live cultures or probiotic supplements) may help support a healthy vaginal microbiome, potentially reducing the risk of BV and yeast infections. Always discuss supplements with your doctor before taking them during pregnancy.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports overall health, including flushing out toxins and maintaining healthy mucous membranes.
• Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports your immune system, which in turn helps your body fight off infections.

While these tips can reduce your risk, it's important to remember that some infections can still occur due to factors beyond your control, such as hormonal changes unique to pregnancy. If you notice any concerning changes, always consult your healthcare provider.

What does normal vs. abnormal discharge look like during pregnancy?

Understanding the difference between normal pregnancy discharge and abnormal discharge is key to knowing when to seek medical attention. During pregnancy, it's completely normal to experience an increase in vaginal discharge, which is your body's way of protecting your uterus and baby from infection.

Normal Pregnancy Discharge (Leukorrhea)

Normal discharge during pregnancy is called leukorrhea. It has distinct characteristics:

• Color: Clear, milky white, or very light cream/off-white.
• Consistency: Thin, watery, or slightly sticky. It should be smooth.
• Smell: Mild or odorless. It should not have a strong, unpleasant smell.
• Amount: Typically increases throughout pregnancy, especially in the later trimesters. This is due to increased estrogen levels and blood flow to the vaginal area.
• Symptoms: Should not be accompanied by itching, burning, pain, or redness.

It's essentially an amplified version of the discharge you might experience between periods, but usually more abundant. It serves an important function, helping to keep the birth canal clean and preventing bacteria from traveling up to the uterus.

Abnormal Discharge During Pregnancy

Abnormal discharge, on the other hand, signals a potential problem. Here's how it typically differs:

If your discharge is green, regardless of the shade, it usually falls into the "abnormal" category, especially if it's accompanied by any of the symptoms listed in the table. Even light green discharge in early pregnancy or green discharge in the third trimester without a strong smell should still be reported to your doctor for evaluation.

One specific scenario to note is a gush of clear, watery fluid. While normal discharge can be watery, a sudden gush might indicate your water has broken (premature rupture of membranes), which requires immediate medical attention, regardless of color. If you're unsure whether it's discharge or amniotic fluid, contact your doctor right away.

What tests will my doctor perform for green discharge during pregnancy?

When you report green discharge to your healthcare provider, they will take a systematic approach to accurately diagnose the cause. This usually involves a combination of questions, a physical exam, and laboratory tests.

Medical History and Symptom Assessment

Your doctor will start by asking you detailed questions about your symptoms, including:

• When did you first notice the green discharge?
• What color is it exactly (light green, dark green, yellowish-green)?
• What is the consistency (thin, thick, frothy)?
• Does it have any odor, and if so, how would you describe it (fishy, musty, strong)?
• Are you experiencing any other symptoms, such as itching, burning, pain during urination or sex, redness, swelling, or abdominal pain?
• Have you had any recent sexual partners, or has your partner been tested for STIs?
• Have you used any new soaps, douches, or feminine hygiene products?
• Are you taking any medications or supplements?

These questions help your provider narrow down the potential causes even before an exam.

Physical Examination

A physical exam will typically include:

• Pelvic Exam: Your doctor will visually inspect your vulva, vagina, and cervix for signs of inflammation, redness, or lesions. They will also observe the discharge directly.
• Speculum Exam: A speculum will be used to gently open the vaginal walls, allowing the doctor to view the cervix and collect samples of the discharge.

Laboratory Tests

This is where the definitive diagnosis often happens. Your doctor will collect samples of your vaginal discharge for various tests:

• Wet Mount: A small sample of discharge is placed on a slide with a saline solution and examined under a microscope. This quick test can identify:
  • "Clue cells": Vaginal cells coated with bacteria, characteristic of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV).
  • Trichomonads: The moving parasites that cause Trichomoniasis.
  • Yeast buds or hyphae: Indicative of a yeast infection.
• Vaginal pH Test: A small strip of pH paper is used to test the acidity of your vaginal discharge. An elevated pH (above 4.5) can suggest BV or trichomoniasis, while a normal pH (below 4.5) often points away from these but can still be consistent with a yeast infection.
• Whiff Test: A drop of potassium hydroxide (KOH) is added to a discharge sample. A strong, fishy odor (amine odor) confirms BV.
• STI Screening: If STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea are suspected, your doctor will collect a swab from your cervix or vagina (or a urine sample) to send for specific DNA/RNA testing. These tests are highly accurate for detecting these bacterial infections.
• Culture: In some cases, a culture of the discharge might be sent to the lab to grow and identify specific bacteria or yeast, especially if initial tests are inconclusive or if the infection is recurrent.

These tests are generally quick, minimally invasive, and safe during pregnancy. They provide your doctor with the necessary information to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the most appropriate, pregnancy-safe treatment, giving you peace of mind and protecting your health and your baby's.

From our medical team: "It's common for pregnant individuals to experience changes in vaginal discharge. While many changes are normal, green discharge almost always signals an infection that needs attention. Don't try to self-diagnose or wait it out. A quick visit to your provider for a simple test can confirm the cause and allow for safe, effective treatment, preventing potential complications for both you and your baby. We're here to help, not to judge."

Myth vs. fact

Myth vs. Fact: Green Discharge During Pregnancy

• Myth: Green discharge always means you have an STI.
  Fact: While STIs like trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea can cause green discharge, other non-STI infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) are also common culprits. It's crucial to get tested to know the exact cause.
• Myth: If green discharge has no smell, it’s probably not serious.
  Fact: Even light green discharge during pregnancy with no strong odor can be a sign of an infection that needs treatment. Some infections might have subtle symptoms initially. Always report any green discharge to your doctor.
• Myth: You can treat green discharge with over-the-counter remedies or douching.
  Fact: Never attempt to self-treat green discharge, especially during pregnancy. Douching can worsen infections and disrupt your vaginal flora. Only a doctor can diagnose the specific infection and prescribe pregnancy-safe and effective treatment.

Key takeaways

• Green discharge during pregnancy is a strong indicator of a vaginal infection and should always prompt a call to your healthcare provider.
• Common causes include bacterial vaginosis (BV), trichomoniasis, other STIs, and occasionally yeast infections.
• Be especially concerned if green discharge is accompanied by a foul odor, itching, burning, pain, frothy texture, or fever.
• Untreated infections can pose risks like preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, and transmission to the baby during birth, making prompt treatment essential.
• Treatment usually involves pregnancy-safe antibiotics or antifungal medications prescribed by your doctor; never self-treat.
• Practice good hygiene (wipe front to back, avoid douching, use mild products) and wear breathable cotton underwear to help prevent infections.
• Your doctor will perform a pelvic exam and laboratory tests (like a wet mount or pH test) to accurately diagnose the cause of the discharge.

Frequently asked questions

Is green discharge during pregnancy an emergency?

While green discharge during pregnancy requires prompt medical attention, it's not always an immediate emergency unless accompanied by severe symptoms like fever, chills, intense abdominal pain, or a sudden gush of fluid. However, you should call your doctor or midwife as soon as possible to get it checked out, ideally within 24-48 hours, to prevent potential complications.

What does a yeast infection discharge look like when pregnant?

Yeast infection discharge during pregnancy is typically thick, white, and clumpy, often described as having a "cottage cheese" like consistency. It usually doesn't have a strong odor but is accompanied by intense itching, burning, and redness of the vulva. In some severe or mixed cases, it might appear slightly yellowish-green.

Can BV cause green discharge during pregnancy?

Yes, Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) can absolutely cause green discharge during pregnancy. While BV discharge is often described as grayish-white and thin, it can also appear yellowish-green, especially if the infection is more pronounced or has been present for a while. It's almost always accompanied by a strong, fishy odor that often gets worse after sex.

What color discharge is normal during pregnancy?

Normal discharge during pregnancy, known as leukorrhea, is typically clear, milky white, or a very light cream/off-white. It should be thin, watery, or slightly sticky, smooth in consistency, and have a mild or no odor. The amount of normal discharge usually increases throughout pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

When should I be concerned about discharge during pregnancy?

You should be concerned about discharge during pregnancy if it changes in color (green, yellow, gray, brown, bloody), consistency (frothy, very thick, lumpy, watery gush), or smell (foul, fishy, musty). Also be concerned if it's accompanied by itching, burning, pain, redness, swelling, fever, or abdominal pain. Any of these symptoms warrant a call to your healthcare provider.

Can a UTI cause green discharge during pregnancy?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) primarily affects the bladder and urethra, causing symptoms like painful urination, frequent urges, and sometimes cloudy or bloody urine. While a UTI itself doesn't typically cause green vaginal discharge, the irritation and inflammation it causes in the genital area might sometimes contribute to changes in discharge or make you more susceptible to other vaginal infections that *do* cause green discharge. If you have UTI symptoms *and* green discharge, it's important to get both checked.

When to call your doctor

While any green discharge during pregnancy warrants a call to your healthcare provider, you should contact them immediately (within a few hours) if you experience green discharge accompanied by any of the following:

• A strong, foul, or fishy odor.
• Severe itching, burning, or irritation in the vaginal area.
• Pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
• Redness or swelling of the vulva.
• Frothy or bubbly discharge.
• Lower abdominal pain or cramping.
• Fever or chills.
• Any bleeding or spotting.
• A sudden gush of watery fluid (which could indicate your water has broken).

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your health or your pregnancy.

References

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Vaginitis. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/vaginitis
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) – CDC Fact Sheet. https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Trichomoniasis – CDC Fact Sheet. https://www.cdc.gov/std/trichomoniasis/stdfact-trichomoniasis.htm
4. Mayo Clinic. Vaginal yeast infection (Thrush). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999
5. National Health Service (NHS) UK. Vaginal discharge in pregnancy. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-uncomfortable-symptoms/vaginal-discharge/
6. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). Patient information: Vaginal discharge. https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-all-leaflets/vaginal-discharge-patient-information/