You’ll see a wide spectrum of discharge when you’re pregnant, which can be one of the most confusing symptoms you experience. However, the appearance is very much informative, so you should know the difference between what’s normal and concerning. Discharge is not the same thing as urine, although it is closely related, so look out for green or yellow fluid in your panties since it is likely a sign of serious infection. This kind of discharge is usually in a frothy texture and accompanied by a foul odor, so it’s hard to ignore. Infections signalled by green or yellow discharge can cause miscarriage, premature labor, and other health problems, so they require immediate medical attention.
What causes it?
Green discharge is most often caused by a vaginal infection. These include UTIs, yeast infections, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis, with which the infection passes on to your baby via amniotic fluid. Yellow discharge could be categorized similarly, but you might also see it after sexual intercourse during pregnancy, which is totally normal. Cervical erosion causes many of these infections and is a breeding ground for mucus-producing cells.
Tips?
The best way to prevent green or yellow discharge is to prevent infections altogether. This means keeping good hygiene habits, wearing clean and breathable underwear, and being careful during intercourse. It’s not a great idea to get pregnant if you have a sexually transmitted infection already, but UTIs and other vaginal conditions arise commonly once you’re pregnant. Some infections can be treated with antibiotics, but you may want to see your healthcare provider regardless to discuss the best course of action.
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Sources
- A R Hayward. “The human fetus and newborn: Development of the immune response.” Birth defects original article series. 19(3):289-94. Web. Feburary 1983.
- “STDs & Pregnancy – CDC Fact Sheet.” CDC.gov. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 7/10/2013. Web.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Urinary tract infection (UTI).” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 7/23/2015. Web.
