Vaginal discharge during pregnancy

Vaginal discharge often increases during pregnancy, and that’s perfectly normal! However, a change in colour, texture, or odour could be a sign of an infection.

What causes vaginal discharge?

The cells of the vaginal walls are continually renewed. Once old cells have been replaced by new ones, they’re eliminated as white discharge. This is what is observed in early pregnancy. Hormones (estrogen and progesterone) are the main cause of increased vaginal discharge, as well as increased blood flow to the pelvic area.

In the first months of pregnancy, vaginal discharge is light and whitish and may be heavier than usual. It may also become more abundant and have a thinner consistency during the final month of pregnancy, when the baby descends lower into the pelvis.

In general, this type of discharge is odourless and doesn’t contain any blood. Light bleeding is normal after penetrative sex or a vaginal examination, however, as the cervix contains more blood vessels during pregnancy.

Mucous plug

The mucous plug, which closes off the cervix throughout pregnancy, is also formed by vaginal discharge. The function of this plug is to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus, thus protecting the fetus.

Towards the end of the third trimester, due to the dilation of the cervix, the mucous plug can become dislodged. When this happens, it causes thick, white, gelatinous vaginal discharge, sometimes tinged with blood. This is completely normal and means that the cervix is softening and preparing for childbirth. However, it’s not a sign that the baby is coming immediately. It’s important not to confuse this discharge with bleeding.

Speak to the doctor managing your pregnancy if you notice that your vaginal discharge has changed colour, has a foamy texture, has an unpleasant (or fishy) odour, is accompanied by bleeding, or causes itching. These symptoms could indicate the presence of a vaginal or sexually transmitted infection.

Tips to reduce the risk of vaginal infection

Pregnant women are at greater risk of developing a vaginal yeast infection, especially in the third trimester. Around 10 percent of women experience at least one yeast infection during their pregnancy.

Here are a few tips to reduce the risks of such an infection:

• Avoid excessive intimate hygiene such as vaginal douching, which can irritate the mucous membranes of the vagina.
• Avoid scented products that could upset the balance of vaginal flora. Choose a mild, pH-neutral soap instead. If you wish to use bubble bath products, opt for an unscented version.
• When you go to the bathroom, always wipe from front to back.

What to do if you think you have a vaginal infection

Never buy an over-the-counter antifungal without first discussing it with a pharmacist, as some treatments may not be right for you. For example, oral fluconazole, a drug often used to treat yeast infections, could slightly increase the risk of miscarriage and heart defects in newborns, according to a large Quebec study.

That being said, depending on your situation and the stage of your pregnancy, your pharmacist may still recommend fluconazole after weighing the benefits and risks of the various treatment options available. Failure to treat an existing health issue can also have negative consequences.

In the case of a vaginal infection, you can also consult a doctor or specialized nurse practitioner (SNP) to assess whether your infection is caused by yeast, or by bacteria (which requires specific treatment).

Things to keep in mind

• Increased vaginal discharge is normal during pregnancy.
• If it bothers you, try wearing a pantyliner.
• Speak to the health care professional managing your pregnancy if the discharge has an abnormal appearance or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.

Scientific review: Anouk Landry, nursing staff manager for the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, CHU Sainte-Justine Research and copywriting:The Naître et grandir team Updated: February 2026