WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Vaginal Discharge in the First Trimester

Vaginal Discharge in the First Trimester
Vaginal discharge during the first trimester, medically known as leukorrhea, is a common and normal experience for many pregnant women.
This discharge is typically thin, milky, and mild-smelling or odorless.
It is caused by increased estrogen levels and greater blood flow to the vaginal area, which stimulates the mucous membranes.
Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
Is It Normal?
Yes, experiencing vaginal discharge in the first trimester is normal.
It's a natural part of the body's changes during pregnancy and helps to prevent infections by maintaining a healthy bacterial balance in the vagina.
Percentage of Women Affected
A large proportion of pregnant women experience increased vaginal discharge during the first trimester:
  • First Month: Approximately 60-70% of women notice an increase in discharge.
  • Second Month: The prevalence may rise, with about 75-85% experiencing noticeable changes.
  • Third Month: Most women continue to have increased vaginal discharge.
Tips to Prevent and Care for Vaginal Discharge
  1. Maintain Good Hygiene: Regular bathing and wearing breathable, cotton underwear can help maintain hygiene and comfort.
  2. Avoid Douching: Douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and is generally not recommended.
  3. Use Panty Liners: If the discharge is heavy, panty liners can be used for comfort, but avoid tampons.
  4. Monitor for Changes: Pay attention to changes in the color, smell, or consistency of the discharge, as these can indicate an infection.
"Many women experience an increase in vaginal discharge during the first trimester. This is a normal response to the hormonal changes your body is going through. It's important to maintain good hygiene and wear comfortable, breathable underwear to manage this. While discharge is usually nothing to worry about, if you notice any changes like a strong odor, itching, or green/yellow color, it's important to see your healthcare provider, as this could be a sign of infection."
When Should I Consult?
Consult a healthcare provider if:
  • The discharge has a strong odor, is green or yellow in color, or is accompanied by itching or burning, which could indicate an infection.
  • You experience any bleeding or spotting, as this can sometimes be a sign of a more serious issue.
  • The discharge changes significantly in amount, color, or consistency.
  • You have any concerns or discomfort related to the discharge.
Top Asked Questions
  1. Is increased vaginal discharge a normal part of early pregnancy? Yes, it is a common and normal occurrence due to hormonal changes.
  2. Can changes in discharge indicate a problem? Certain changes, like odor or color change, can indicate an infection and should be evaluated.
  3. How can I manage increased discharge? Good hygiene practices and using panty liners can help manage the discharge.
  4. Should I be concerned about any vaginal itching or discomfort? While some discomfort can be normal, persistent itching or burning should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Sources
  • The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Guidelines on vaginal health during pregnancy.
  • The National Health Service (NHS, UK): Information on common symptoms during early pregnancy.
  • Journal of Women's Health, Issues & Care: Studies on changes in vaginal discharge during pregnancy.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Guidelines on maintaining vaginal health.
More info
K
Kendra
5 Feb 2024

So I’m in my first trimester I have a yeast infection my OB gave me a prescription for terconazole vaginal cream I looked it up it says not to use in the first trimester I’m so confused on what to do any suggestions??? # worry

5 comments
I
Iyana
I used the miconazole 7 that’s the one they prescribed me in first trimester !
27 Mar 2024

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K
Kendra
Did it harm your baby ? I had 2 miscarriages already I don’t want anything to happen to my baby I read that’s it not recommended to use in first trimester just nervous
27 Mar 2024

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A
Anyeli
16 Jan 2024

Hello girls, a few days ago I found out that I am pregnant, and I wanted to ask you if this brown discharge is normal in the first trimester.

2 comments
C
Christophers Wifey
yes just as long as there isnt any red clots , bloody discharge or fresh blood like a period
27 Mar 2024

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C
Crystal
Yes as long it isn't bright red blood
27 Mar 2024

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A
Amber
8 Jul 2023

13 weeks symptom update: Occasional Cramping/Pressure of vagina Breast tenderness went from extreme to mild Only waking up once If that to urine in the night instead of 3 times Hot flashes Increased vaginal discharge Migraines this week is my worst symptom Decrease in appetite but when I’m hungry I have to eat now or my stomach automatically growls Dark urine in the mornings Uncomfortably with sleep positions Some fatigue and nausea but way better than first trimester! Typically only feel nausea after I eat lunch? Other than that this week most my symptoms have subsided dramatically! Cheers to 2nd trimester! Feeling so blessed! Hope this helps 🥰❤️

1 comments
S
Sarah
If your urine is dark, you could be getting dehydrated. Drinking more water would help with the dehydration and the cramps. 🖤
27 Mar 2024

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A
Anastasia
29 Apr 2023

Has anyone had brown discharge for most of they first trimester. I’m found out I was pregnant at 6 weeks and I’m now 11 weeks and still having brown discharge. Is that normal ? I have a Doppler do I hear my baby heartbeat every day.

3 comments
G
Gabrielle
I’m 9 weeks 5 days, started experiencing that discharge these past couple days. My OB said that’s normal, as long as it’s not heavy it’s nothing to be concerned.
27 Mar 2024

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D
Daisy
Hello How are you doing did the discharge go away ? Im currently going threw this
27 Mar 2024

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T
Taylor
23 Feb 2023

Not to be gross but anyone having an increase in discharge?! Had it in first trimester and now its back 😫

5 comments
🍹
🍹Jenni
Yes!! Sometimes it comes out all at once and I’m like oh no!! I got to get a bath!! I hate how it feels!!
27 Mar 2024

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G
Gina
Omg alwayssss!!! If I'm not wearing a panty liner, I'm changing my underwear 3x a day! And I'm always so paranoid that I smell like a vagina 😂😂😂 it's gross! Lol
27 Mar 2024

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D
Desi
1 Jan 2023

Any of you Mama's taking Progesterone vaginal 200mg at night till you get out of the first trimester, then need to take the injections the rest of your pregnancy??

5 comments
J
Jennifer
Im taking them by mouth every night. Havent been told if I need to take injections.
27 Mar 2024

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D
Desi
how do you feel? When I take mine I'm so crampy at night ugh
27 Mar 2024

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D
Darrah
27 Nov 2022

Question any momma been getting greenish thick discharge since entering the second trimester?

4 comments
S
Shawna
It's a sign of infection. You should see your dr. Immediately
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jamie
Definitely a sign of infection, for sure. I would see your doctor asap
27 Mar 2024

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M
Morgan
23 Nov 2022

Did anyone have vaginal burning /irritation at all in the first trimester?? I’m 11 weeks.. I’ve been checked twice for infections and everything’s come back normal. I drink lots of water so I know I’m hydrated.. confused as to why I’m having this issue?! It’s very uncomfortable

8 comments
R
Randi
Yeah a little bit but went away pretty quickly. I think it’s normal
27 Mar 2024

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M
Morgan
It’s weird becuase it comes and goes.. it’ll be here for a few days then go away and then come back. Hoping to goes away soon
27 Mar 2024

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X
Xena
16 Dec 2021

Question mommy’s I have anybody experienced having a yellowish discharge in the first trimester of pregnancy and is it a cause for concern or worry.

0 comments
g
graceka
probably nothing.. if smells could be bacterial infection
27 Mar 2024

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X
Xena
Okay thank you
27 Mar 2024

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k
katie
14 Dec 2021

Ok I don’t mean to be tmi.. but has anyone had like light brownish tanish discharge in the second trimester ?..

0 comments
j
jamie
I’m 15 weeks and no…
27 Mar 2024

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k
katie
Ok I am too , idk I looked it up it said It’s not abnormal . I just get paranoid lol I took a pregnancy test again just to make sure it says I am pregnant still 😊 I’m a nut lol
27 Mar 2024

Answer


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