Most expectant mothers experience vaginal discharge problems during pregnancy. Discharges usually occur due to pregnancy. They are usually not a very serious problem and do not require treatment. However, they can be important in some cases. Some vaginal infections that occur during pregnancy also cause vaginal discharge . The causes of infections are fungi, bacteria and parasites. Discharges can occur at normal times, but they are a problem that is encountered more frequently, especially during the reproductive period, that is, during pregnancy. In order to understand whether the discharge is normal or physiological, it is necessary to go to a gynecologist and be examined as soon as possible.
What are the Types of Vaginal Discharge?
Especially during pregnancy, discharge should be detected by the doctor and if necessary, intervention should be made. Women should convey their discharge complaints to a gynecologist throughout their pregnancy and inform the doctor about this issue. Vaginal discharge can occur in different types during pregnancy. In terms of vaginal discharge, the color and smell of the discharge are factors that make it easier for the doctor to find the type of discharge and the cause.
The most common vaginal discharge encountered in women during normal times and pregnancy is physiological discharge. Physiological discharges appear as transparent or white. If the patient does not have any complaints and the color is white or transparent as we have stated, doctors usually evaluate this discharge as physiological discharge. When physiological vaginal discharge occurs, it usually does not emit much odor, it has a slight odor. If there is a darkening in the color of the discharge or an increase in the amount of discharge during the period of discharge, a doctor should be consulted.
The second most common type of vaginal discharge in women is the discharge that occurs due to a fungal infection. This discharge is a white liquid coming from the vagina and often causes itching in the vagina. In general, the most common type of infection in pregnant women is fungal infection. Fungal infections occur as a result of the weakening of the immune system during pregnancy and the pH balance changes due to hormones. When a fungal infection occurs during pregnancy, doctors may recommend various suppositories and creams. However, after a certain period of recovery, fungal infections can reoccur. Fungal infections that occur during pregnancy can be important in some cases, so treating them before birth ensures a healthier birth. Treatment before birth allows the birth incision to heal more quickly and also reduces the risk of the baby getting thrush.
In women, bacterial infection that causes vaginal discharge before or during pregnancy can also occur. Bacterial infection is usually a sexually transmitted infection. Using a condom during sexual intercourse is a situation that largely eliminates the risk of bacterial infection. However, bacterial infection during pregnancy can sometimes cause premature birth and harm the baby at birth. Therefore, treatment as a precaution for bacterial infection that occurs during pregnancy has positive results for both the mother and the baby. Although fungal infection is also an important infection, it does not reach the baby and does not harm the baby, but since bacterial infection has the possibility of reaching the baby, it should be treated as soon as it is noticed.
Ways to Prevent Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy
Since excessive sugary food consumption triggers fungal growth, staying away from excessively sugary foods before and during pregnancy is one of the precautions to be taken against fungal infections.
Using a condom during sexual intercourse will reduce the risk of infection and eliminate the factors that cause discharge. Condom selection is also important in this regard. When choosing a condom, simpler ones should be preferred and used instead of those containing various essences.
The genital organ, namely the vagina, should never be washed with soap. Using shampoos specifically designed for genital areas is more beneficial for the health of the vagina.
The inside of the vagina should not be washed with water during pregnancy.
Do not use vaginal powder or deodorant.
When choosing underwear, choose cotton underwear and use only these.
Change laundry at least twice a day, more often if possible.
Use soap powder instead of detergent when washing your clothes and iron them well with a hot iron after they are dry.
Using a daily pad throughout the day is among the factors that prevent discharge.
In Which Cases Should You See a Gynecologist for Vaginal Discharge?
When there is an increase in the amount of normal vaginal discharge , it is useful to have a gynecological examination by a gynecologist.
A change in the amount of vaginal discharge during pregnancy is among the situations that require seeing a doctor.
If vaginal discharge is at a level that bothers the person, a doctor should be consulted.
If the vaginal discharge emits more odor than usual, it should also be checked by a gynecologist.
Causes of Non-Physiological Vaginal Discharge
There appears to be an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy.
Excessive use of antibiotics causes discharge.
Discharge is more common in diabetic patients.
Sitting for long periods of time with wet swimsuit underwear.
Entering pools with high chlorine levels.
Wearing very tight clothing may cause vaginal discharge.
Estrogen and cortisone treatments
Using excessive amounts of dietary sugar or sweeteners.
Using synthetic underwear causes discharge.
Washing the inside of the vagina very frequently with soap and water.
Walking barefoot on cold surfaces can also be a trigger for the discharge.
Situations where the genital areas are not clean.
Some of the scented toilet papers available in the market can also cause vaginal discharge.
Using underwear that does not belong to the person may cause discharge in case of any infection that the person may have.
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