WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Vaginal Discharge in the Third Trimester

Pregnancy
Pregnancy follow-up
Vaginal Discharge in the Third Trimester
Vaginal discharge in the third trimester, commonly referred to as leukorrhea, is a continued experience for many pregnant women.
This discharge is usually thin, clear, or milky, and mild-smelling or odorless.
It is caused by increased estrogen levels and greater blood flow to the pelvic area, aiding in maintaining a healthy vaginal environment in preparation for childbirth.
Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
Is It Normal?
Experiencing an increase in vaginal discharge during the third trimester is normal and a standard aspect of pregnancy. It plays a vital role in preventing infections as the body prepares for labor and delivery.
Percentage of Women Affected
Most women experience increased vaginal discharge during the third trimester:
  • Seventh Month: Approximately 80-90% of women continue to notice increased discharge.
  • Eighth Month: This prevalence generally remains high, with a similar percentage experiencing it.
  • Ninth Month: The majority of expectant mothers report persistent increased vaginal discharge as they approach their due date.
Tips to Prevent and Care for Vaginal Discharge
  • Prioritize Hygiene: Continue with regular bathing and wear breathable, cotton underwear to maintain comfort and hygiene.
  • Avoid Douching: Douching can disrupt the natural vaginal flora and is not recommended during pregnancy.
  • Use Panty Liners: For comfort, panty liners can help manage increased discharge, but tampons should be avoided.
  • Observe Changes: Be vigilant for changes in the discharge, such as color, consistency, or odor, which could indicate a potential infection.
Consider taking a break from panty liners, especially at night, to allow air circulation and avoid creating a moist environment.
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
When Should I Consult?
Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended if:
  • The discharge has an unusual odor, changes in color, or is accompanied by itching, burning, or irritation.
  • You experience any spotting or bleeding.
  • There are significant changes in the amount or type of discharge.
  • You have any concerns or discomfort related to the discharge.
Top Asked Questions
Is increased vaginal discharge normal in the third trimester?

Yes, it's a typical occurrence due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow.

What should I do if I notice changes in my discharge?

Any unusual changes, especially accompanied by discomfort, should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

How can I manage increased discharge at this stage of pregnancy?

Good personal hygiene and the use of panty liners can be effective.

Can increased discharge indicate the onset of labor?

While discharge tends to increase as labor approaches, it's not a definitive sign of labor.

View Sources
  • The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Guidelines on normal changes in vaginal discharge during pregnancy.
  • National Health Service (NHS, UK): Comprehensive advice on managing vaginal health during pregnancy.
  • Journal of Pregnancy and Child Health: Studies on physiological changes in the third trimester.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Health recommendations for pregnant women.
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C
Christiana
5 Feb 2024

Did anyone in the second trimester have lots of discharge or any brown discharge/tan

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
3 comments
T
Tycary
yes it’s normal
27 Mar 2024

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C
Christiana
it’s been so much so i was getting a little nervous
27 Mar 2024

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C
Chasitey 🤰🏾🫶🏾👶🏽
24 Jan 2024

Hate wearing underwear but the discharge I am experiencing in this third trimester is getting out of hand 😂😭

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
8 comments
C
Crystal
Omg im experiencing this now and its so annoyingggg 😫
27 Mar 2024

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C
Chasitey 🤰🏾🫶🏾👶🏽
Yessss like geesh lmaooo I just be like omg just put the panties on forget it 😂😂
27 Mar 2024

Answer

C
Crystal
22 Jun 2023

Any ladies ever experience brown discharge during thier third trimester? I see my doctor tomorow but just wanted to see if anyone else experienced it as well

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
4 comments
G
Gina
Yes let me know what you find out
27 Mar 2024

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K
Kierastin Robinson
I just had this today… I’m thinking we could of been spotting and didn’t know. Because blood does turn brown when old.
27 Mar 2024

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S
Shaina
11 Jan 2023

Serious question. 2nd trimester 18 weeks. I noticed this in my first trimester too… my underwear is wet. Not discharge but just wet (I do have normal discharge though). Is this normal or?

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
4 comments
D
Danette
I mean I've had clear wet discharge since I got pregnant. And it just dumps out at random times and is extremely uncomfortable because yeah, it soaks my underwear
27 Mar 2024

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B
Blocked user
Lol that’s totally normal it messes up everything I hate it..
27 Mar 2024

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M
Marianne
22 Aug 2022

How can I tell if I’m slowly leaking amniotic fluid? I’m in my third trimester and I had some discharge that was normal but the rest basically was watery and soaked my underwear 😐 #firstpregnancy

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
2 comments
A
Ajah
It will keep leaking , it won’t stop . So if you change your underwear, and get up again and notice the same thing it may be fluid .
27 Mar 2024

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D
Danielle 🦦🪷
I had that once. Went in to my OB to get checked she said it was pee. I was like wtf that just came out without my knowledge. But like Ajah said if it keeps coming then it might be fluid. But also listen to your body. My sisters water broke and she went to the er and got it tested they sent her home just to come back later that night still leaking and she finally was admitted
27 Mar 2024

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G
Gabby
16 Aug 2022

Has anyone dealt with watery discharge in their third trimester? I left a message with my OB, but wanted to ask the question here too.

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
5 comments
B
Bri
🙋🏻‍♀️ my OB said it's normal
27 Mar 2024

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G
Gabby
Ok good, google had me freaking out saying imma go in labor in the next 48 hours 😩. I have so much stuff to still get.
27 Mar 2024

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