Leucorrhoea is a normal condition experienced by almost all women, especially pregnant women. In fact, vaginal discharge often appears in pregnant women due to hormonal changes in the mother's body. Even though it is not dangerous, vaginal discharge often makes mothers feel uncomfortable when on the move. Then, read this article to the bottom to overcome it!
What causes pregnant women to experience vaginal discharge?
In early pregnancy (first trimester), pregnant women not only experience drastic hormonal changes, but also psychological conditions that often change. So, it's natural that during a young pregnancy, mothers suddenly feel sad, have a bad mood, or often experience stress. This uncontrolled psychological condition is very influential in the appearance of vaginal discharge.
In the second trimester, vaginal discharge will usually stop appearing. But, vaginal discharge will increase again in the third trimester, to be precise near the time of delivery. This is caused by the increasing amount of blood flowing into the cervix (cervical).
A few days before delivery, usually, the vaginal discharge that comes out is more concentrated and accompanied by blood spots. When the mother is ovulating, vaginal discharge can also increase. Moreover, when the mother feels high sexual arousal, or while breastfeeding.
How to deal with vaginal discharge during pregnancy?
- Maintain cleanliness of Miss V
The first way to deal with vaginal discharge during pregnancy is to make sure to always clean Miss V every time you finish urinating or defecating. This is done by washing it with clean water from front to back. - Take a bath regularly
Bathing regularly can immediately clean the genitals and remove vaginal discharge. Bathing can also help the body avoid the accumulation of bacteria and prevent infection. - Eat healthily
The mucus from the cervix can be affected by the type of food consumed. Avoid consuming foods that cause inflammation or digestive problems. Mothers also need to control their sugar intake during pregnancy to reduce the production of vaginal discharge. - Wear comfortable pants
Wear cotton underwear that easily absorbs sweat. Avoid underwear or outside that is too tight. Whether the mother is pregnant or not, it is necessary to pay attention to the quality of underwear to maintain the health of the genitals. - Using pantyliners
To feel more comfortable, mothers can use pads or pantyliners, because the material is able to absorb the vaginal discharge. But, always diligent to replace it because the pantyliner is made of cotton which can cause moisture so it is free from bacteria.
Those are some things that must be known for pregnant women. Keep in mind, as long as the vaginal discharge is clear or white, does not smell, and does not feel itchy or sore, vaginal discharge is still a normal condition.
Immediately consult a doctor if vaginal discharge shows signs that are not normal (smelling foul, the liquid is thick or clotted, gray in color, and painful)
It is important to always pay attention to the cleanliness and health of the female area so that the mother can avoid a vaginal discharge that risks disturbing the health of the fetus, such as bacterial infections in the vagina which can cause miscarriage.
If you have experienced vaginal discharge, it would be nice to immediately consult a doctor at a trusted hospital so that you can get the right treatment right away. Because the sooner you get treatment, the less risk there will be.
The article was written by dr. Heryzal, Sp.OG, M. Kes (Obstetrics Specialist at EMC Cikarang Hospital).