Life
With your body changing at an alarming rate, it can be difficult to keep up with what's considered normal and abnormal during a pregnancy. I mean, the idea that you're growing another human inside of you is pretty incredible, and your body is obviously going to do some pretty impressive things in order to accommodate its new occupant. But when it comes to changes, there are a few you'll want to keep your eye on — especially when it comes to your vagina, because there are definitely pregnancy vagina red flags to watch out for.
Anything irregular happening with your vagina during pregnancy can be alarming, and with good cause. It's not every day your labia changes colors, or your discharge changes consistency. Like all things pregnancy-related, if you're concerned that what you're experiencing isn't quite normal, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor for an explanation or reassurance if you need it. Reading about symptoms and irregularities can only get you so far in a pregnancy. That being said, if you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, or other irregular symptoms, you should reach our to a medical professional as soon as possible. Because your health — and the health of your baby — may depend on it.
1
You Experieince Excessive Vaginal Bleeding
According to GP Online, one in four pregnant women experience vaginal bleeding, and it can be a normal part of pregnancy. However, bleeding in the first trimester can also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, which typically occurs around the sixth week, according to GP Online. If you're experiencing pain in your lower abdomen when bleeding, you should see your doctor immediately.
2
You Have Watery Discharge
Merritt said that, when pregnant, it can sometimes be difficult for you to tell the difference between light urine loss and the rupture of a membrane. Although it's normal to have heavy discharge during pregnancy, watery discharge is a sign that you could have a pre-term rupture on your hands, and should be inspected immediately.
3
You Notice Pelvic Pain
Another common symptom during pregnancy is pelvic pain, due to the stretching of your ligaments and the enlarging of your uterus, according to Dr. Keith Merritt. However, if your pelvic pain is extreme, and worsens with time only to stop abruptly, this could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. According to Merritt, pain tends to worsen as your fetus grows, and the rupture of the tube relieves the pain, which a sign that you should see a doctor immediately.
4
You're Extra Wet Down There
If you're feeling extra wet down there, it could be more than just the regular pregnancy discharge. In fact, according to The Bump, gushes of fluid or constant wetness can be a sign that your water has actually broken. If you think this may be the case, get to the doctor and get examined as soon as possible.
5
You Have A UTI That Won't Go Away
If you have a urinary infection that doesn't respond to antibiotics, GP Online noted that it could be a sign of a bigger problem. Certain vaginal infections are associated with pre-term birth and low birth-weight babies, which is why you'll want to ask your doctor about how to move forward with the infection if the antibiotics aren't treating it properly.
6
You Have Bacterial Vaginosis
Although some vaginal infections can be handled easily during pregnancy, bacterial vaginosis is one that you'll want to take care of right away. In an interview with Fit Pregnancy, OB-GYN Dr. April Sarvis,said that bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection that can ascend into the uterus and cause premature rupture of the membranes and preterm birth. If you think you may have bacterial vaginosis, see a doctor immediately.
7
You Have Sexually Transmitted Infections & Symptoms
If you have acquire a sexually transmitted infection (STI) while pregnant, it's important that you see a doctor as soon as possible to find out your treatment options. Some STIs can pass through the placenta and affect the fetus and, according to Fit Pregnancy, some can be transmitted to your baby during delivery, which is why it's so important to get treated right away.
