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What is Leukorrhea?
Pregnancy

What is Leukorrhea?

1 min readWeek 38
Key takeaways
1 min
  • Recognize that milky, odorless discharge (leukorrhea) is completely normal during pregnancy due to increased estrogen and blood flow.
  • Avoid using douching products as they can worsen discharge and cause infections like bacterial vaginosis.
  • Watch for warning signs including unusual odor, itching, pain, or yellow/green/gray colored discharge that indicate infection.
  • Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any abnormal discharge symptoms, as pregnancy makes you more susceptible to infections.
  • Maintain good hygiene practices to support a healthy pregnancy and prevent vaginal infections.

Leukorrhea is normal, milky, odorless vaginal discharge during pregnancy caused by increased estrogen and blood flow. One-third to half of pregnant women experience this harmless increase in discharge, which supports a healthy pregnancy.

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What is Leukorrhea?

Milky, odorless liquid discharge is normal during pregnancy. Doctors call it "leukorrhea." Thanks to increased levels of estrogen and increased blood circulation, this discharge also increases.

One third to half of all expectant mothers notice an increase in discharge [1]. But it’s nothing to worry about. Do not use douching products, which can intensify the discharge and lead to health problems like bacterial vaginosis and dry mucous membranes [2].

When should you worry?

There are a number of signs something is wrong: an unpleasant odor of discharge, itching and pain in the vagina, discharge of yellow, brown, green or gray color, and redness of the genitals. These are all symptoms of inflammation and infection [3]. During pregnancy, the genital mucosa becomes thinner and more susceptible to infections [1]. If any of these occur, consult your doctor.


Frequently asked questions

Leukorrhea is a normal, milky, odorless vaginal discharge that occurs during pregnancy. It's caused by increased estrogen levels and blood circulation, affecting one-third to half of all expectant mothers.

Yes, white or milky discharge is completely normal during a healthy pregnancy. This type of discharge, called leukorrhea, increases due to hormonal changes and is nothing to worry about.

Contact your doctor if you notice unusual odor, itching, pain, or discharge that's yellow, brown, green, or gray. These symptoms may indicate an infection that needs medical treatment.

No, avoid douching during pregnancy as it can worsen discharge and increase risk of bacterial vaginosis and other infections. Douching can also cause dry mucous membranes.

Pregnancy discharge increases due to higher estrogen levels and increased blood circulation to the pelvic area. The genital mucosa also becomes thinner, making it more sensitive during pregnancy.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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Reviewed by healthcare professionals · Updated June 5, 2025

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