Abnormal vaginal discharge or fluid leaking from the vagina during pregnancy

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Abnormal vaginal discharge or fluid leaking from the vagina during pregnancy

Abnormal vaginal discharge

If you are pregnant and have abnormal vaginal symptoms, such as a vaginal discharge or itching, talk with your health professional about your symptoms before using home treatment measures or nonprescription medications. Some home treatment measures may not be appropriate, depending on the cause of the vaginal infection and the type of home treatment.

Changing hormone levels during pregnancy can alter the normal balance of organisms in the vagina.

• Abnormal vaginal discharge during pregnancy may resemble symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, but it may have other causes. Do not use nonprescription medication to treat mild vaginal itching unless you are instructed to do so by your health professional.
• Conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can affect your pregnancy, so it is important to talk with your health professional and be treated appropriately. 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 health professional. This will reduce the risk 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 signal the onset of labor. When your bag of waters (amniotic sac) breaks, amniotic fluid will leak from your vagina. Call your health professional if you have fluid leaking from you vagina.

Credits

Last updated:	August 07, 2006
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine, Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer