What is the difference between menstrual discharge and pregnancy discharge? What are their symptoms and how to distinguish between them, The difference between them is something that confuses women, especially newly married women experiencing pregnancy for the first time.
We will learn how to differentiate between pregnancy discharge and menstrual discharge, and the most important advice women need during the premenstrual period and pregnancy.
What is menstrual discharge
Menstrual discharge is a natural vaginal discharge that varies in consistency and color depending on the timing of the cycle. It is usually thick and creamy, or white before menstruation.
It can be clear and watery during ovulation and consists of normal cells from the vaginal walls to help cleanse the vagina. This discharge can also be brown in color and is often old blood from the previous period.
What is pregnancy discharge
Pregnancy discharge is a normal vaginal discharge that occurs as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy. It is usually clear, white, or milky.
It has a creamy or liquid consistency, is odorless, and is very light. Its function is to protect the cervix and vagina from infection. Its quantity increases toward the end of pregnancy in preparation for childbirth.
Symptoms of menstrual discharge and pregnancy
Symptoms of premenstrual discharge include:
- It has a thick consistency, becoming thicker and creamier before the start of menstruation due to hormonal changes.
- The appearance of light brown spotting, usually due to old blood from the previous period.
- It is white or yellowish in color.
Common symptoms before pregnancy include:
- Delayed menstruation, which is the first symptom of pregnancy, especially if the cycle is regular.
- Breast swelling, which makes them more sensitive.
- Morning sickness, which can occur at any time during the day.
- Extreme fatigue for no apparent reason.
- Frequent urination.
When should menstrual discharge require medical advice
You should see a doctor if your discharge is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Severe pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen.
- Foul or strong odor.
- Change in the color of the discharge to green or yellow.
- Itching, burning, or pain around the vagina.
- Mood swings.
Causes of Premenstrual Discharge
The causes of premenstrual discharge include:
- Hormonal changes that occur as a result of increased progesterone levels after ovulation, which thickens cervical mucus.
- Ovulation, where estrogen can stimulate the production of more discharge, which is usually watery and clear.
- Sexual arousal can increase blood flow to the vagina.
- Strenuous exercise.
What is the difference between menstrual discharge and pregnancy discharge
Menstrual discharge is usually thick and white, turning brown or pink just before menstruation. However, early pregnancy discharge is usually white or clear, abundant, and may be accompanied by light pink or brown spotting, which is known as implantation bleeding.
What does pregnancy discharge look like
Increased vaginal discharge that is clear or white, with a thin or creamy consistency, may indicate pregnancy and is caused by an increase in estrogen.
Light brown or pink spotting, known as implantation bleeding, may also appear. However, this discharge is not a definitive sign of pregnancy, and it is important to confirm this with a pregnancy test.
Treatments for Premenstrual Discharge
Normal vaginal discharge usually does not require treatment. However, if the discharge is associated with a medical condition, it is best to consult a physician to prescribe appropriate medications based on the patient's condition.
Antifungal medications can be prescribed, either inserted into the vagina (vaginal) or taken orally. Antibiotics are prescribed for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.
Home Remedies to Reduce Premenstrual Discharge
Many home remedies can be used to reduce premenstrual discharge, including:
- Maintaining proper genital hygiene to avoid vaginal bacteria.
- Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight clothing, which can increase the risk of vaginal infection.
- Wiping from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the transfer of bacteria from the anus to the vaginal area.
- Drinking kefir and mushrooms to reduce premenstrual discharge.
Does excessive discharge indicate that your period is approaching
Yes, premenstrual discharge is normal, as hormonal changes cause an increase in white or clear discharge, which is often thick or watery in consistency.
This increase in discharge is a result of increased progesterone and estrogen, which leads to increased cervical mucus secretions.
Summary of the Difference Between Menstrual and Pregnancy Discharge
The main difference between pregnancy discharge and menstrual discharge lies in the quantity, color, and consistency. Menstrual discharge is usually thick and white before turning brown or pink just before the onset.
While early pregnancy discharge may be creamy, abundant, and less thick, its color may be clear or white, and it may be accompanied by light pink or brown bleeding, known as implantation bleeding.