During pregnancy, many changes occur in your body. One thing you might notice is an increase in vaginal discharge. While this is perfectly normal, it can sometimes cause uncertainty. In this blog, we explain what normal discharge is during pregnancy, what color changes you can expect, and when it's time to seek advice.
Why Do You Have More Discharge During Pregnancy?
Increased discharge during pregnancy, also known as leukorrhea, is a very normal phenomenon. It is caused by an increase in the hormone estrogen and increased blood flow to the vagina. This extra discharge serves an important function: it helps keep the vagina clean and protects against infections.
What Does Normal Discharge Look Like?
Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy is usually:
•Fluid and mucous-like
•Transparent or white in color
•Odorless or mildly scented
The amount can vary throughout pregnancy. Often, the amount of discharge increases as the pregnancy progresses.
Color Changes in Discharge During Pregnancy
The color of your discharge can tell you a lot about your vaginal health. While white or clear discharge is normal, other colors can sometimes indicate an underlying problem.
Pink or Brown Discharge
Light pink or brown discharge can occur in early pregnancy and is often caused by implantation bleeding. This is a small bleeding that occurs when the fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall. Pink discharge can also occur later in pregnancy, for example after intercourse or due to a sensitive cervix.
Yellow or Green Discharge
Yellow or green discharge, especially in combination with an unpleasant odor, itching, or a burning sensation, can indicate an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or an STD. In that case, it is important to contact your GP or midwife.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Although increased discharge during pregnancy is normal, there are a number of signs where it is wise to contact your doctor or midwife:
•Change in color or odor: If your discharge suddenly changes color (e.g., turns green or yellow) or has a strong, unpleasant odor.
•Itching, burning, or pain: These symptoms can indicate an infection.
•Bleeding: In case of bright red bleeding, it is always advisable to contact your midwife immediately.
•Watery discharge: If you suddenly experience a lot of thin, watery discharge, this could be a sign of ruptured membranes.
Tips for a Healthy Vagina During Pregnancy
•Wear cotton underwear: Cotton breathes and helps keep the vagina dry.
•Avoid panty liners: While it may be tempting to use panty liners, they can actually trap moisture and increase the risk of infections. Opt for washable panty liners made of breathable cotton instead.
•Wash with water: Wash your vagina with water only and avoid soap, vaginal douches, and other irritating products.
Conclusion
During pregnancy, everything in your body changes. One of the things you might notice is an increase in vaginal discharge. While this is completely normal, it can sometimes cause uncertainty. In this blog, we'll explain what normal discharge is during pregnancy, what color changes you can expect, and when it's time to seek help.
Why Do You Have More Discharge During Pregnancy?
More discharge during pregnancy, also known as leukorrhea, is a very normal phenomenon. Kraamzorg het Groene Kruis. (n.d.). Begin zwangerschap afscheiding: oorzaken, symptomen & tips. Geraadpleegd op 4 maart 2026, van It is caused by an increase in the hormone estrogen and an increased blood flow to the vagina. This extra discharge has an important function: it helps keep the vagina clean and protects against infections. 24baby. (n.d.). Vaginale afscheiding als je zwanger bent: wat verandert er?. Geraadpleegd op 4 maart 2026, van
What Does Normal Discharge Look Like?
Normal vaginal discharge during pregnancy is usually:
The amount can vary during pregnancy. Often, the amount of discharge increases as the pregnancy progresses.
Changes in Discharge During Pregnancy
The color of your discharge can tell you a lot about your vaginal health. While white or clear discharge is normal, other colors can sometimes indicate an underlying problem.
Pink or Brown Discharge
Light pink or brown discharge can occur at the beginning of pregnancy and is often caused by implantation bleeding. De Verloskundige. (n.d.). Bloedverlies tijdens de zwangerschap, wat betekent dat?. Geraadpleegd op 4 maart 2026, van This is a small bleeding that occurs when the fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall. Pink discharge can also occur later in pregnancy, for example after intercourse due to a sensitive cervix.
Yellow or Green Discharge
Yellow or green discharge, especially in combination with an unpleasant odor or a burning sensation, can indicate an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or an STD. In this case, it is important to contact your doctor or midwife.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While more discharge during pregnancy is normal, there are a few signs that indicate it's time to contact your doctor or midwife:
Tips for a Healthy Vagina During Pregnancy
Conclusion
More discharge is a normal and healthy part of pregnancy. It helps your body keep the vagina clean and free from infections. However, pay attention to changes in color, odor, or consistency. If in doubt or concerned, it's always best to contact your doctor or midwife. They can reassure you and, if necessary, provide the right care.
Wil je de producten zelf ervaren?
Bestel een proefpakket en ontdek hoe comfortabel wasbaar maandverband kan zijn.
Bestel proefpakket vanaf €18→Ontdek onze producten
De perfecte aanvulling op wat je net hebt gelezen
Meer artikelen
Blijf op de hoogte met onze tips en tricks
