Is Having A Watery Discharge During Pregnancy Normal?

While this is not unusual, pay attention to any changes that may risk your pregnancy.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki, MD, PhD Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki Dr. Irene (Eirini) OrfanoudakiMD, PhD MomJunction on FacebookFollow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Gynaecology and ObstetricsExperience: 21 years
Written by , MSc Reshmi Das MSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Health and WellnessExperience: 4 years
Edited by , BSc Rebecca Malachi BSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pregnancy, Health and WellnessExperience: 12 years
Fact-checked by , MSc Aneesha Amonz MSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Health and WellnessExperience: 2 years
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Woman With Watery Discharge In Her Pregnancy

Image: Shutterstock

A healthy vaginal discharge is clear or milky white and odorless (or with a mild odor). The varying amount of vaginal discharge depends on whether you are menstruating, pregnant, or going through menopauseiTermination of a woman’s menstrual cycle in a woman due to a decrease in reproductive hormones or late menopause. (1) (2). Increased estrogeniA hormone responsible for the development and functioning of female reproductive organs levels may cause watery discharge during pregnancy, although this is not worrisome. However, if there are any color changes and a foul smell or other symptoms, it can be concerning (3).

Read on to learn more about watery discharge while pregnant, why it happens and how to manage it.

In This Article

What Is Watery Discharge During Pregnancy?

Watery discharge during pregnancy

Image: Shutterstock

During pregnancy, in the process of the body’s preparation to accommodate the baby, your cervix and the vaginal walls soften from enhanced estrogen levels. This leads to increased blood flow in the pelvic region, especially in the uterus and uterus cervix, where endocervical glandsiGlandular epithelial tissues situated in the inner cervix responsible for the production of mucus produce watery discharge. Pregnant women are more prone to infections. The increased watery discharge can protect the vagina from viruses and bacteria. It clears out the dead cells in the vagina (3).

This discharge might get heavier with the advance of your pregnancy, and you may even confuse it with urine. However, understand that it is normal.

An increase in discharge is also one of the early pregnancy symptoms, but it might not be the same in all cases. Therefore, you should look for other symptoms and take a pregnancy test (4).

protip_icon Quick fact
Pregnancy may cause more vaginal discharge due to an increased amount of blood flowing to the area (5).

How Does A Watery Discharge Appear?

During pregnancy, the watery discharge appears clear or milky white, with a thin consistency, and is called physiologic leucorrheaiAbnormally colored (white or yellow) vaginal discharge in women, often resulting from an infection . The discharge may either have a mild smell or no odor and resembles the vaginal discharge that you have before your periods. You might feel it in your underwear (5).

Is Having A Watery Discharge During Pregnancy Normal?

Watery discharge is common during pregnancy and holds a sticky consistency. As your pregnancy advances, a heavy discharge could indicate your body’s preparation for labor. However, accompanying symptoms such as pain, a foul odor, or itching, could be concerning and require doctor consultation (3) (5) (6).

What Are The Causes Of Watery Discharge In Pregnancy?

When you’re pregnant, you may experience watery discharge due to (4):

  • Pregnancy-related changes in the vagina and cervix
  • Increased estrogen levels
  • Rupture of the amniotic saciThe membranous sac containing the amniotic fluid that protects and nourishes the developing fetus (water breaking) at the beginning of or during labor (6)
  • Amniotic fluid leakage or premature rupture of membranesiRupturing of the amniotic sac before the onset of labor, usually due to infections (PROM) (7)
  • Medications for incompetent cervix such as progesterone vaginal suppositories (8) (9)

A mother of three, Lynette Quah, shares her experience of having watery discharge from taking vaginal suppositories for an incompetent cervix during her third pregnancy. She says, “With the progesterone vaginal suppositories, there is a lot of watery discharge, and being an IC mom, the main worry is always the leaking of our waterbag.

“I have spoken to my doctor as well and he did say it’s normal but if it is troubling me (well, I was so troubled for weeks I did not get a good sleep as I was checking and checking whether the discharge would suddenly be a gush of water) then perhaps I should swallow it instead of inserting it (I was on Utrogestan, one of those you can take orally, so before you down any of your vaginal suppositories please speak to your OBGYN) (i).”

protip_icon Point to consider
PROM may be confused with urine or other vaginal discharge. So, use a pad to collect the discharge and assess it carefully. Amniotic fluid is usually clear and odorless (14).

When Is Watery Discharge A Sign Of Concern?

If you have a vaginal discharge other than clear, milky or thin, it could cause concern. The associated symptoms and unusual changes may need a doctor’s attention (4).

  • Foul or strong, fishy smell
  • Vaginal itchiness or soreness
  • Burning sensation
  • Spotting or bleeding
  • Change in the color of vaginal discharge to yellow, brown, pink, curdy white, or any other color
  • Change in the consistency of the discharge

These symptoms and changes could indicate vaginal infections, including bacterial infection (vaginosis), parasitic infection (trichomoniasisiSexually transmitted parasitic infection characterized by genital itching and foul-smelling vaginal discharge in females ), yeast infection (candidiasisiA relatively common yeast infection causing itching, pain, and discharge in the vaginal region in women ), or sexually transmitted infection.

Since these infections can cause various pregnancy complications, ensure to consult your doctor as soon as you notice any of these symptoms (10).

Consult your OB-GYN if you notice any of the signs

Image: Shutterstock

You should also seek immediate medical care if you observe a heavy gush of watery fluid at the end of your pregnancy (i.e., water breaking) (6).

A clear watery discharge along with lower abdomen cramping necessitates medical intervention as it could signify pelvic inflammatory diseaseiInfection in the female genital tract characterized by pelvic pain, fever, and abnormal vaginal discharge (PID) or the onset of early labor (11).


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How To Manage Watery Discharge When Pregnant?

Since watery discharge during pregnancy is not a cause of concern, it requires no treatment prevention. However, the following measures can help prevent heavy and abnormal watery discharge during pregnancy (12) (13):

  • Wear cotton underpants, panty liners, or pads as per your convenience (5)
  • Avoid wearing tight clothing, such as tight pants or bikini shorts, for a longer time
  • Wipe your butt from front to back after the toilet use
  • If you have irritation in your genital area, change your detergent
  • Avoid hot tubs and feminine hygiene sprays, as these can cause irritation
  • Maintain good hygiene by taking a bath everyday
Shower every day and practice good hygiene

Image: Shutterstock

  • Avoid using tampons and douching as they may introduce unwanted germs
  • Some birth control measures can also irritate some women; therefore, consult your health care provider if you notice any such symptoms.
protip_icon Quick tip
Avoiding using perfumed soaps and bath products may help prevent vaginal yeast infections (4).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is watery discharge in early pregnancy an indication of miscarriage?

No. The watery discharge during early pregnancy does not indicate a miscarriage. Instead, it shows that your vagina is healthy, and the increased estrogen levels are sufficient to stimulate increased watery discharge to protect the vagina from the entry of pathogens.

2. Is excessive watery discharge a sign that my water broke or I am leaking amniotic fluid?

Excessive or heavy watery discharge along with contractions at the end of the third trimester could mean that your water broke and you’re going into labor or leaking amniotic fluid prematurely (PROM). The Ph level of the water is also vital. If the Ph is not acidic, a pregnant woman has to communicate with a doctor or go to the nearest hospital soon.

You may have a steady trickle flow or gush of amniotic fluid when your water breaks, but it is PROM if you see the above signs before your due date (i.e., before the 37th week) (7).

3. What does a lot of clear watery discharge mean during pregnancy?

A lot of clear watery discharge in pregnancy could mean hormonal fluctuations in pregnant women and not a cause of worry.

4. Can watery discharge during pregnancy affect my baby?

No. Watery discharge is vital for protecting your developing baby. It maintains a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in your birth canal and vaginal area, offering essential protection (15).

5. Is it safe to have sex if I have watery discharge during pregnancy?

Sex is generally safe throughout a low-risk pregnancy. If you’re unsure whether you’re considered low-risk or at risk of complications like pre-term labor or miscarriage, speak to your maternity care specialist, such as your obstetrician, gynecologist, or midwife (16).

6. Can medications cause watery discharge during pregnancy?

Some medicines may induce water discharge during pregnancy. Certain bone-strengthening medicines, such as bisphosphonates, can result in a white discharge as a potential side effect (17).

7. Can stress cause watery discharge during pregnancy?

Long-term psychosocial stress and cortisol exposure heighten the risk of developing vaginal infections, which may cause a discharge (18). Speak to your doctor for treatment and learn how to manage stress better.

Watery discharge during pregnancy is a typical occurrence caused due to physiologic changes and increased estrogen levels. Additionally, the vaginal discharge increases with the pregnancy advancement up to the last trimester. So, do not worry, but if you see any changes in your vaginal discharge, such as a change in odor, color, and other symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Moreover, maintaining personal hygiene and avoiding feminine hygiene products can help prevent vaginal infections during pregnancy.

Infographic: Causes And Warning Signs Of Watery Discharge During Pregnancy

Having watery discharge during pregnancy is normal for many women and is usually not a cause for concern. However, it’s also important to know when to consult a doctor, as in some cases, it can indicate an infection or other complications. So, scroll through the infographic below to learn more about watery discharge in pregnancy.

watery discharge in pregnant women(infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Normal discharge during pregnancy is typically milky or white in color, has a thin consistency, and a mild odor.
  • Causes of white discharge during pregnancy include increased estrogen levels, changes in the vagina and cervix, rupture of the amniotic sac before labor, and amniotic fluid leakage.
  • Discharge that changes color, has a foul smell, and is accompanied by a burning sensation and itching in the vagina can indicate an infection and may require medical attention.
  • During the last trimester, heavy fluid flow requires immediate medical attention.
  • Managing watery discharge during pregnancy can be done by using pads or panty liners, wearing comfortable clothing, and maintaining proper hygiene.
Watery Discharge During Pregnanc_illustration

Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team

Gain clarity on vaginal discharge, a natural occurrence among both pregnant and non-pregnant women. This informative video helps you differentiate between various types of discharge, enabling a grasp of normal and abnormal situations.

Personal Experience: Source

MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.

i. Week 19 : Week By Week Incompetent Cervix Pregnancy Guide – Vaginal Discharge!
https://klquah.blogspot.com/2014/11/week-19-week-by-week-incompetent-cervix.html

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Sailan-ur- Rahem (Leucorrhoea).
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/4719-vaginal-discharge
  2. Gene B. Bishop; (1990); Clinical Methods: The History Physical and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd edition.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK281/
  3. Hormonal health – clues made clear.
    https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/news/hormonal-health-clues-made-clear
  4. Vaginal discharge during pregnancy.
    https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/vaginal-discharge-during-pregnancy
  5. Vaginal discharge during pregnancy: your questions answered.
    https://www.nct.org.uk/pregnancy/worries-and-discomforts/common-discomforts/vaginal-discharge-during-pregnancy-your-questions-answered
  6. Labor and delivery.
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/9676-labor-delivery
  7. Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM).
    https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=90&ContentID=P02496
  8. Progesterone vaginal suppositories; Mount Nittany Health.
    https://mountnittany.org/wellness-article/progesterone-vaginal-suppositories
  9. Meena Khandelwal; (2012); Vaginal progesterone in risk reduction of preterm birth in women with short cervix in the midtrimester of pregnancy.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3469232/
  10. National Guideline Alliance (UK); (2021); Management of symptomatic vaginal discharge in pregnancy: Antenatal care: Evidence review T. London: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573944/
  11. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9129-pelvic-inflammatory-disease-pid
  12. Vaginal Discharge.
    https://familydoctor.org/condition/vaginal-discharge/
  13. Douching.
    https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/douching
  14. Premature rupture of membranes.
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000512.htm
  15. Vaginal discharge during pregnancy.
    https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/vaginal-discharge-during-pregnancy
  16. Sex During Pregnancy (for Parents).
    https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/sex-pregnancy.html
  17. Vaginal Discharge.
    https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/vaginal-discharge
  18. Psychosocial Stress, Cortisol Levels, and Maintenance of Vaginal Health.
    https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fendo.2018.00568/full
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Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki
Dr. Irene (Eirini) OrfanoudakiPhD, MD
Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki is a gynecologist-obstetrician, having a private practice in Heraklion, Crete, and collaborating with private health clinic 'MITERA' - Euromeda in Heraklion. With around 21 years of experience as a gynecologist-obstetrician, she specializes in ultrasound, colposcopy, minimal and advance gynecologic surgery, aesthetic gynecology, fertility consulting, menopause consulting, operative obstetrics, high-risk pregnancy, normal deliveries, antenatal, intra-parum, postnatal care, breast diseases, and teenage issues.

Read full bio of Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki
Reshmi Das
Reshmi DasMSc
Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a clinical coordinator, medical content writer and medical conference coordinator. Her continuous interest in medical journals and writing makes her write well-researched articles for MomJunction.

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Rebecca Malachi
Rebecca MalachiBSc
Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She did her graduation in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in ‘Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy’ from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).

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Aneesha Amonz
Aneesha AmonzMSc
Aneesha holds a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from USTM, Meghalaya and Master’s degree in Applied Microbiology from VIT, Vellore. With two years of experience, she has worked on different research projects in the field of Food Sciences.

Read full bio of Aneesha Amonz