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Pregnancy: Vaginal Discharge and Leaking Fluid

Topic Overview

Abnormal vaginal discharge

Changing hormone levels during pregnancy can affect the normal balance of organisms in the vagina. If you are pregnant and have abnormal vaginal symptoms, such as vaginal discharge or itching, talk with your doctor about your symptoms before using home treatment measures or nonprescription medicines.

Abnormal vaginal discharge may look like a symptom of a vaginal yeast infection. You can also have abnormal vaginal discharge with problems such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). BV or an STI can affect your pregnancy, so be sure to talk with your doctor and get treatment. Note: If you have symptoms of a pelvic infection or think you may have an STI, do not have sexual intercourse until you see your doctor. This will reduce the chance of spreading a possible infection to your partner. Your partner may also need treatment. Also, talk with your doctor before you use any nonprescription medicines to treat a yeast infection.

Fluid leaking from the vagina

Fluid leaking from the vagina may be a sign that labor is starting. When your bag of waters (amniotic sac) breaks, amniotic fluid will leak from your vagina. Call your doctor if you have fluid leaking from your vagina.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised March 20, 2012

Last Revised: March 20, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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