Green Discharge in Pregnancy: What It Means and What to Do

Experiencing changes in your body during pregnancy is completely normal, but it’s important to stay aware of what’s happening to ensure you and your baby remain healthy. One common change is the appearance of vaginal discharge. Most of the time, vaginal discharge during pregnancy is nothing to worry about, but if it turns green, it could be a sign that something is wrong. In this article, we will explore what green discharge during pregnancy might mean, what to do about it, and how it fits into antenatal health.

Understanding Normal Discharge During Pregnancy

Before delving into the specifics of green discharge, it’s essential to understand what normal vaginal discharge looks like during pregnancy. Known as leukorrhea, this thin, milky, and mild-smelling discharge is a typical part of pregnancy and helps keep the vagina clean and free of infections. Discharge tends to increase as pregnancy progresses, especially during the third trimester. This increase is due to hormonal changes, specifically elevated oestrogen levels, which stimulate blood flow to the pelvic region and enhance mucus production. Normal discharge should not cause concern, but it’s still important for pregnant women to monitor any significant changes in the colour, texture, or odour of their discharge as it can sometimes be a sign of infection or other health issues.

What Green Discharge Means in Pregnancy

When vaginal discharge becomes green or yellowish-green, it can be a sign of infection. One of the most common causes is a bacterial infection or sexually transmitted infection (STI). Below are some potential reasons for green discharge during pregnancy:

1. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis is a common infection caused by an imbalance in the vaginal flora. While BV can occur in anyone, pregnant women are particularly susceptible due to hormonal changes. The condition often causes a thin, grey, or greenish discharge with a fishy odour. BV is not sexually transmitted but can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including preterm labour and low birth weight.

2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Some STIs, such as trichomoniasis and gonorrhoea, can lead to green or yellowish-green discharge. These infections often come with other symptoms like itching, pain during urination, or a foul smell. Both trichomoniasis and gonorrhoea can have serious implications during pregnancy, increasing the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and infection in the baby. It’s crucial for expectant mothers to get tested for STIs as part of their routine antenatal care.

3. Yeast Infections

Although yeast infections typically produce white, cottage cheese-like discharge, severe cases may result in yellow or green discharge. Yeast infections are common during pregnancy due to increased oestrogen levels and can cause discomfort, including itching and irritation.

4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs can sometimes cause changes in vaginal discharge. While these infections usually lead to symptoms such as a burning sensation during urination or frequent urges to urinate, they can also result in abnormal discharge if left untreated.

The Importance of Antenatal Care

If you notice green discharge during pregnancy, it’s vital to seek medical advice immediately. Infections can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby if left untreated. Regular antenatal appointments help monitor your health and catch any potential issues early. These appointments provide a valuable opportunity to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, including changes in vaginal discharge.

Antenatal Care and Infections

Antenatal care includes routine screening for common infections that could affect the pregnancy. This can involve tests for bacterial vaginosis, STIs, and UTIs. Antenatal vitamins and maintaining good hygiene can also help reduce the risk of infections. Your healthcare provider will also provide antenatal support by advising you on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including managing infections or abnormal discharge.

What to Do If You Notice Green Discharge

If you experience green discharge, it’s crucial to take action immediately:

1. Contact Your Healthcare Provider: Your doctor or midwife will assess your symptoms, perform necessary tests (such as swabs or urine samples), and recommend the best course of treatment.
2. Follow Treatment Plans: Most infections that cause green discharge are treatable with antibiotics or antifungal medication. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and complete the full course of medication to prevent recurrence or complications.
3. Maintain Good Hygiene: Practising good hygiene can help prevent infections. This includes wearing breathable cotton underwear, avoiding douching, and using unscented soaps for intimate hygiene.
4. Attend Antenatal Checkups: Regular antenatal checkups are vital in monitoring both the mother’s and baby’s health throughout pregnancy. Early detection of any abnormality, including infection, can lead to timely intervention, reducing risks for both the mother and baby.

Can Antenatal Fitness Help Prevent Infections?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including antenatal fitness, can help prevent some infections during pregnancy. Regular exercise like prenatal yoga or yoga for pregnancy boosts the immune system, improves circulation, and promotes overall wellbeing. However, it’s essential to check with your healthcare provider before starting any fitness routine to ensure it’s safe for your specific pregnancy needs.

The Role of Antenatal Clinics in Managing Pregnancy Health

Attending an antenatal clinic regularly ensures that both the mother and baby receive optimal care. These clinics offer comprehensive services, including antenatal checkups, antenatal scans, and pregnancy clinic visits, all designed to monitor the health of the mother and child. Early diagnosis of infections through these checkups helps to prevent complications that could arise from untreated green discharge.

Take Green Discharge Seriously During Pregnancy

Green discharge during pregnancy is often a sign of infection and should not be ignored. Infections can lead to serious complications if left untreated, so it’s crucial to seek medical advice immediately if you experience this symptom. Regular antenatal care appointments are key to maintaining your health and ensuring the wellbeing of your baby. These visits not only help monitor any unusual symptoms like green discharge but also provide you with the support needed to manage any concerns or complications that arise. By following the guidance of your healthcare provider, maintaining good hygiene, and staying active with antenatal fitness activities such as prenatal yoga, you can help protect yourself and your baby from infections. Remember, if you’re ever unsure or concerned about changes in your discharge during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or midwife.