Early Pregnancy
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Vaginal discharge is natural during pregnancy, but depending on its appearance, it can also be a sign of a gynecological issue. What happens when it turns green? And what if it’s accompanied by a bad odor? Should you be worried?
May explains everything about green discharge.
What are the common causes of green discharge during pregnancy?
For women, vaginal discharge is normal and can vary during pregnancy, often becoming more abundant. When it is white and fluid, everything is fine! Mixed with cervical mucus, it helps protect the vagina from harmful bacteria and supports its self-cleaning system.
However, when it changes color, it can be a sign of an imbalance or an infection. If your discharge is yellow-green and has an unpleasant odor, it could be a sign of trichomoniasis.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a protozoan parasite: *Trichomonas vaginalis*. It is transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and more rarely during childbirth.
Trichomoniasis often shows up as green, foul-smelling discharge and can sometimes be accompanied by vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina) or cystitis (urinary tract infection). You may also experience pain in the vaginal area and while urinating.
Good to know: in many cases, this STI can go unnoticed, especially in men compared to women.
Healthcare professionals screen for it during STI testing. A direct microscopic exam is necessary for diagnosis. If it is present, it is strongly recommended to notify your sexual partner(s).
💡 Good to know: green discharge can also appear late in pregnancy during the rupture of the amniotic sac. Amniotic fluid is usually clear, but when it is tinted, it means that the baby has passed their first stool. This is called meconium-stained fluid. If you notice green-tinged amniotic fluid, go to the maternity emergency room immediately.
When should I see a doctor for green discharge during pregnancy?
As soon as you notice green or unusual vaginal discharge during pregnancy, you should consult your doctor.
Here are the types of discharge that should alert you:
- Gray discharge with a fishy odor.
- White, clumpy discharge.
- Yellow discharge accompanied by pelvic pain.
- Abundant off-white or yellowish discharge.
The key point: STIs are rarely associated with pregnancy, but pregnant women are not exempt. Having an STI before and/or during pregnancy requires additional monitoring to ensure the pregnancy progresses smoothly. In fact, different infections are screened early in pregnancy through blood tests (serology) and self-collected vaginal swabs.
How are infections causing green discharge during pregnancy treated?
If trichomoniasis is detected, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics.
What risks do green discharge pose for my pregnancy?
If it is trichomoniasis, rest assured, it is not dangerous in itself, but it can be very uncomfortable.
However, it is important to treat it. In some cases, if trichomoniasis is not treated properly, it can pose risks for you and your baby. The WHO cites the following examples:
- Low birth weight.
- Premature rupture of membranes.
- Premature birth.
- Respiratory and/or vaginal infections in the newborn (in very rare cases).
How can I prevent vaginal infections during pregnancy?
As with most STIs, the only way to prevent trichomoniasis is by using condoms during risky sexual encounters or if you have multiple partners.
If your blood test reveals an STI, whatever it may be, it is essential to inform your partner(s). If you need help or don’t know how to approach the subject, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor, gynecologist, or midwives for advice. They can guide you through this process.
Now you know that green discharge is caused by an STI—trichomoniasis—and that it can be treated with antibiotics. Trichomoniasis can be prevented by using condoms during risky sexual encounters.
Want to learn more? Feel free to download the May app, where you’ll find plenty of resources to support and guide you throughout your pregnancy.
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Photo: Prostock-studio
This text was translated from French by an artificial intelligence. The information, advice, and sources it contains comply with French standards and may therefore not apply to your situation. Make sure to complement this reading by visiting the May US/UK app and consulting the healthcare professionals who are supporting you.
