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Jelly-like Discharge During Pregnancy - Do You Need to Worry?
Pregnancy is a process that involves a lot of changes in the body, both internally and externally. Vaginal discharge is not unknown to women as they may experience some form of it in their lives. However, a white, jelly-like discharge during pregnancy may pique your curiosity as this form of discharge is unlike the others you may have had. It also may be thicker and have a weird smell. Here is more information on what it is and whether you need to take any special measures for it.
Is a Jelly-Like Discharge During Pregnancy a Matter of Concern?
In most cases, discharge from the vagina that resembles a jelly-like substance and is clear of any colour is absolutely fine and is considered a normal body process. However, there are certain scenarios when the discharge might indicate signs of infection or other aspects to be examined. These are:
The vaginal region is slightly swollen, which may or may not be accompanied by pain
Urination irritates, itches, or causes a burning sensation
The texture of the discharge is not free-flowing or thick. It resembles a curd or cheese-like texture and is uneven
The colour is not white or off-white but has a grey tinge or even a greenish shade
What Causes a Jelly-Like Discharge During Pregnancy?
Many women believe that the thick, clear, jelly-like discharge symptom of early pregnancy is a confirmed fact. However, it might not always be the case. The reasons for such a discharge to occur are multiple.
Two primary conditions can be the cause of such a discharge: elevation of estrogen levels, and a boost in the blood flow to the pelvic region.
Both these conditions result in the stimulation of the mucous gland located in the cervix. It then begins to work more intensely than before, which results in a higher generation of mucous.
This extraneous mucus doesn’t have a place in the body, so it starts finding its way out of the vagina. While it flows out, it gathers with it any remaining mucus, old and dead cells of the vagina and cervix, and other natural bacteria.
All of these combined together give the mucus a jelly-like texture.
Jelly-Like Discharge in the Third Trimester/End of Pregnancy
For many women, this clear, jelly-like discharge is usually observed when they are in the third trimester of their pregnancy or even approaching the final couple of weeks of completing the term.
In this scenario, the body starts to discharge the mucous plug in the vagina. This plug functions as a barrier that protects the uterus and the baby from germs and infections, right from the initial stages of the pregnancy. Keeping the uterus sealed is essential for the safe development of the foetus.
The mucous plug may be discharged as the cervix softens during pregnancy - softening or 'ripening' of the cervix means that it starts to become thinner in preparation for delivery. As a result of this process, the mucus plug may struggle to stay intact. Some pregnant women may lose their mucous plug during cervical examinations or even because of sexual intercourse.
As you begin approaching the due date, the body starts preparing for childbirth. Around the completion of 36 weeks or so, the mucus plug is discharged and it appears out of the vagina in the form of a similar discharge. It may come out gradually like jelly or completely all at once like a big blob, with a little blood on it. This mucous plug mixed with blood is known as 'show'. There’s no reason to worry about it.
When Does Vaginal Discharge Indicate an Infection?
The discharge that occurs needs to be colourless and odourless. If it has a foul smell accompanied by greyish or greenish colours, these are strong signs of an infection present in the vagina, which could be:
1. Yeast Infection
There are various fungi present in the vagina which can, at times, affect the microbes present in the entire region. Due to the multiple hormonal changes that the body undergoes during pregnancy, the various fluids present in the vagina turn concentrated with sugar. Combined with a higher susceptibility to infection, the sugary environment provides a great latching ground for yeast, which results in a yeast-based infection taking over your vagina.
2. Bacterial Infection
A vagina contains both good and bad bacteria. At times, the increase in bad bacteria may cause harm to you and your baby. Certain bacterial infections are known to trigger labour earlier than normal, leading to preterm birth. This leads to a host of other complications and disorders that a baby might have. A history of premature births might signify a presence of this infection and it is best to get examined if you have faced the same before.
3. Infection Due to STDs
In case you have been sexually active in the early stages of pregnancy, the chances of having contracted a sexually-transmitted disease are slightly higher than any other infection. Getting an STD test done for yourself and your partner should be the first point of action if you’ve had unprotected sex. STDs can not only lead to early labour and premature deliveries but can also infect the uterus after birth. Transferring the infections to the baby during your pregnancy can lead to the hindered development of the child. Babies being underweight, having issues with eyesight and other sensory perceptions, and acute brain damage are only a few conditions that a baby might face due to STDs.
Tips to Prevent Chances of Vaginal Infections During Pregnancy
If you are sexually active during pregnancy, it is best that neither you nor your partner interacts with multiple sexual partners. This can help reduce the risks of contracting STDs. Make sure you get yourself and your regular partners tested for STDs before proceeding, and always use protection.
Many women wash the vagina repeatedly with water to keep it clean. Vaginas are self-cleaning, and incessant douching can actually result in infection since it rids it of any healthy bacteria that ought to be present.
Whenever you clean the vagina, make sure it is dried completely. Moist areas are breeding grounds for microbes, which can cause infections. If your vagina or the surrounding area stays wet, you are quite literally inviting infections to make it their home.
Opt for comfortable clothing that isn’t tight in the crotch area. Even your underwear should be a little loose and preferably made out of cotton. This helps in facilitating air circulation as well as absorbing any sweat, keeping the area dry.
Cleaning after using the loo is something everybody learns in their childhood, but many of us end up making a basic mistake. The hygienic way to clean your area is to wipe it from front-to-back and not the other way around. Wiping from back-to-front shifts all the germs from the anal area to your vagina and infects it. Wiping the right way keeps the vagina free from such problems.
Women are expected to have nice-smelling vaginas, but that is unnecessary - they have a natural odour which should not be changed by use of fragrances and deodorants. The chemicals in them can react adversely with the vaginal area, leading to irritation and infections.
Bubble baths should also be avoided in this regard since fragrant soaps come in direct contact with the vagina, irritating it or making it susceptible to infections.
During pregnancy, even the smallest change in your body could indicate a large change happening internally. Having a clear, jelly-like discharge during early pregnancy isn’t always a problem. But observing it well and looking for anything out of the ordinary can help you avoid chances getting an infection.
Resources and References: Healthline
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Brown Discharge during Pregnancy Read more
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Vaginal Changes During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can bring about a lot of changes in a woman's body. If you are pregnant, you know what we are talking about. Your body must be going through a lot of hormonal changes during this time. You must have noticed certain changes in your body like weight gain, breast tenderness, shiny hair and skin, etc. But there's a lot that happens 'down there' during pregnancy which you may not have realised yet.
Vaginal changes are hard to notice in early pregnancy. There will be virtually no change in the first trimester because it’s too early. However, you will notice certain changes in the second and third trimester. Your lady parts will change as a result of the hormonal changes, even in outward appearance. The changes in the hormonal levels in the body can also result in the appearance of varicose veins, which affects around ten per cent of pregnant women. These veins disappear around six weeks before labour, hence you need not worry about that. Read on to know what all changes pregnancy can bring about in your vagina.
Changes That May Happen to Your Vagina During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a whole lot happens below the belt. Some of the vaginal changes in early pregnancy are mentioned below.
1. Your vagina’s pH level will change.
During pregnancy, there will be more blood flow to the parts of your body which will be involved in labour. This includes your uterus and vagina. The increased blood supply will alter the pH balance of the chemicals down there, resulting in a doughy, gluey scent. Yes, your vagina will smell different and chances are you will be able to sense it because of your heightened olfactory senses. However, if you notice that the smell is overpowering or foul, do consult a doctor as it could be a sign of an infection.
2. Your vagina will taste different.
The changes in the taste of your vagina can go unnoticed if your partner does not speak up about it. This change in taste is due to the enhanced blood flow to the vagina, which alters the balance of the chemicals in the genital area. The taste will be more salty and metallic during pregnancy.
3. There will be more discharge from your vagina.
Most women think that vaginal discharge during pregnancy occurs only close to the time of labour, but that is not true. Pregnancy is characterised by an abundance of hormonal changes in the body of the woman, which can result in the changes in labia during pregnancy. Your vaginal walls will be stimulated to produce a milky discharge called leukorrhea, which can help keep your lady parts free of any infections. So, don’t be afraid if the vaginal discharge is more than usual.
4. You may get urinary tract infections.
You will be at the risk of contracting urinary tract infections (UTIs) during pregnancy. As your pregnancy progresses, your enlarged uterus will press up against the bladder, which can stop the bladder from draining completely. This can cause a urinary tract infection.
5. Your vagina may become extremely sensitive.
An increase in the blood flow to the vulva during pregnancy can make it engorged and sensitive. It may swell and become sensitive.
6. You might get varicose veins down there.
Another change caused due to the increased blood flow into the vaginal area is the occurrence of varicose veins. The walls of the veins are under pressure, as a large amount of blood progresses through them slowly. This is the reason for the appearance of varicose veins in expectant women.
7. Your vagina will be more vulnerable to yeast infections.
Yeast infections are common in women, whether they are pregnant or not. Around 75% of women are affected by yeast infections. However, pregnant women are more susceptible to yeast infections because of an increase in oestrogen levels and changes in the pH levels.
8. Your vagina’s colour might change.
The signature colour of the vagina is usually pink but it might change during pregnancy. Increased blood flow down there may lead to this change. It is also known as Chadwick’s sign. The hormones affecting pigmentation may also turn your labia and vulva into darker shades of blue during pregnancy. This change may happen as early as four weeks, and it could also be one of the early signs of pregnancy. But there is nothing to worry about. The blue or purple colour should disappear shortly after you give birth to your little one.
9. You might notice more ingrown hair.
The large amounts of oestrogen in the bloodstream may result in faster growth of pubic hair, which can then get clogged in the pores due to profuse sweating.
10. Your vagina may feel itchy.
Yes, you might feel itchy down there. Increased vaginal discharge, changes in the pH levels, and other changes may leave you uncomfortable and you might feel itchy. Itchiness down there is a common symptom of pregnancy and can happen anytime, but if it persists for longer than you can take it, consult a doctor soon.
A woman's vagina plays a key role in the pregnancy journey. During pregnancy, some changes are bound to occur in your vagina - they may seem strange but they are completely normal and expected. None of these changes lasts long and won’t affect your pregnancy. Furthermore, your lady parts will return to normal quickly after your baby comes into the world. However, if these changes get in the way of your day to day life, talk to your gynaecologist about the same.
Also Read: Vaginal Swelling during Pregnancy Read more
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Do Babies Pee & Poop in the Womb?
A baby's basic organs start developing by the end of the first trimester of pregnancy. Out of curiosity, you may wonder if the babies pee and poop in the womb. Well, if you have this question in your mind and are looking for an answer all around, then end your search. Find out if babies actually pee and poop in the womb.
Do Babies Urinate in the Womb?
As weird as the question sounds, the answer is just as strange to hear. Yes, babies urinate in the womb of their mother during pregnancy. Once the first trimester is close to achieving completion, the embryo that was initially present has now grown up to be a foetus. It begins to resemble the human form and does have some of the standard and crucial organs in their preliminary stages. Urine development takes place as well, although it is quite different from the urine we are aware of. It lacks any colour or smell since babies are not digesting any external food yet.
Why Does a Foetus Pee Inside the Womb and Is it Safe?
Now that you know that your little bundle of joy is able to turn your womb into a toilet, your curious brain will want to know if he also drinks their own pee in the womb. Well, the answer is yes. But it isn’t as disgusting as it seems.
The uterus is the housing environment for the baby and it is made safe and comfortable by the amniotic sac. This contains the amniotic fluid that carries out numerous functions, right from maintaining an optimal temperature, cushioning the baby’s movements, and so on. The fluid is made up of numerous salts and minerals along with water, all of which has been provided by the body of the mother.
Urination is a natural process of the human body and the baby being able to urinate successfully is a good sign of his development. Babies tend to swallow a lot of amniotic fluid through their development and they urinate it out. Now, if this urine is not processed appropriately, the collection of those elements can create a condition called as polyhydramnios. Therefore, babies tend to swallow their urine in their act of taking in the amniotic fluid and carry out a recycling action of sorts.
While swallowing pee might not seem like a healthy and safe aspect to us, it is totally normal for a baby in the womb. The constitution of the urine is not the same as what we have in our daily lives, and there is no presence of external germs or microbes that might lead to an infection. Furthermore, the very act of swallowing is what helps the child develop the strength he will need to breastfeed successfully. As the body keeps getting the fluid and urine, it develops itself to process them successfully, which is necessary for a proper functioning of the digestive system as well as the urinary system.
Do Babies Poop In the Womb?
Now you know where the urine of the foetus goes in the womb, you may be relieved, but that relief is for a short time. The next question that you may have is if he even poops in there? And if yes, then does he even swallow the poop?
You might be able to come to terms with the swallowing of the pee but swallowing pooping, gross, isn't it? Thankfully, you don’t need to throw up since babies don’t usually poop in the womb. Their bowel movements are nearly absent and the first poop that babies have is usually the meconium that they excrete, which is green in colour.
The reason a human body develops poop is due to the food we eat. Not all of it is useful to the body and there are waste materials that remain once we have derived the nutrition. In the womb, all the nutrition that the baby needs is provided directly by the umbilical cord. Therefore, there’s no chance of developing any waste material, which shuns the occurrence of pooping.
What Happens If a Baby Poops in the Womb?
Nothing is without exceptions and there have been certain cases where babies have failed to hold their poop while being in the womb. If a baby does poop in the womb, the meconium circulates within the area and mixes up with the amniotic fluid. This is a cause for concern since the baby might inhale it and lead to the development of a condition called as meconium aspiration syndrome. These can lead to developmental disorders or limited breathing capacity after the baby is born.
Doctors may intervene with advanced medical procedures to drain the meconium or provide supplemental oxygen to keep the baby safe.
While it is truly unsafe to have your baby poop in the womb before labour, it is quite natural for babies to pee in the womb and swallow it, just to keep repeating it again. The journey of a baby’s development is quite unbelievable but once you know it all, you will feel proud that you know every little detail of your baby's growth.
Also Read: Baby’s Positions in the Womb Read more
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Mom-to-Be - The Most Beautiful Phase of a Woman’s Life
Being pregnant is a wonderful feeling and you can truly get to know how special it is when you step into that beautiful phase. I guess every woman has her own set of questions and inquisitiveness tagged to it.
Having entered motherhood recently, I can say that there are some basic things that work universally - what you may call the golden rules of pregnancy. Healthy eating, a consistent active schedule, keeping yourself up and optimistic, and most importantly, loving your physical being as it transforms during the process is important. During this precious time, every day brings to you a new feeling and a discovery of your own potential. To sustain it, balancing all aspects of your physical and mental being becomes a primary responsibility.
When I look back now, I feel that the initial days of pregnancy are the toughest as you need to achieve perfect harmony between your physical self and your inner being. For me, the following inclusions in my lifestyle made it easy to get along with my changing self quickly and smoothly.
Getting used to healthy and nutritious eating habits have now become a part of my life.
A wardrobe modification helped me prepare for the changing body. It's actually a driving factor to feel good about your physical appearance and believe me, it gives you a lot of good memories later on. So carry yourself to look chic and stylish all through.
Being very particular about the kind of footwear I was using, as it was time to get comfy in flats and lighter fashionable stuff, relieved me of the pressure of the increasing weight on my body.
A pregnancy pillow is a must-buy from the very initial stages and believe me, it comes in handy even post delivery.
Fragrances or no fragrances is what is going to be a big issue so it's good to buy sensitive and branded fragrance-free toiletries! Your nose tends to get ultra sensitive!
I would suggest investing in a large bag or maybe even a diaper bag for yourself at this stage. This works to cater to our personal needs during pregnancy and later on functions as per its name - diaper/baby bag.
A good pair of walking shoes is again not to be missed. It's time to be on your toes!
A very consistent active schedule that includes a walk, mediation or a light yoga session (as suggested and suitable) is something I'd recommend.
A dedicated time slot spent listening to soothing music tracks helped me relax. For me, it included garbha sanskar tracks available online and specific tracks for pregnancy. It really helps keep you focused!
Keeping in touch with your own self and the growing life within is important.
Lastly, staying closely connected to your spouse and other family members matters, for they are the best companions on this journey you're going through!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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Here's a Beautiful Way to Relax Your Senses During Pregnancy
There are two stages in your life when you will be stressed like never before: pregnancy and early motherhood. Worse, you cannot rely on a good night's sleep, a spontaneous outing, or a day at the spa to help you destress. Being a woman, you are expected to take care of not just your baby, but everyone else in your family. And you have no qualms about it – not only is it one of your strengths, it is also something you voluntarily love to do! However, in the midst of all this, you forget to take care of yourself, and eventually get burned out and frustrated.
Fret not; you don't have to accept the stress and worry as an unavoidable part of your life. For there's a quick fix right at your home: aromatherapy. What's more, it is one of the few stress relief techniques suitable for every mom in every stage of motherhood. That said, the benefits of aromatherapy for pregnant and new moms are the most far-reaching.
What is Aromatherapy?
Do you breathe in deeply when you smell a natural fragrance like jasmine or rose? Doesn't it soothe you and make you feel better instantly? Without knowing it, you are indulging in aromatherapy!
Contrary to popular belief, aromatherapy is not modern therapy. It is an ancient tradition seen in cultures around the world - even in our very own India. Vaidyas or ayurvedic physicians were known to treat royalty with aromatic oil massages. Even back then, they certainly knew the importance of being relaxed to have a healthy state of mind! Traditionally, fragrant essential oils such as lavender, rose and jasmine were used for dealing with the three doshas or forces of nature - the vata (space and air), pitta (fire and water), and kapha (earth and water) respectively. According to Ayurveda, every person has each of these three forces within them, and the various combinations determine your nature, well-being, and your skin type.
A woman with a primarily Vata constitution has qualities of space and air. This is the reason why Vata types are generally slim, move fast, think on their feet, and have dry skin. Lavender helps calm them down like nothing does, and also works wonders for dry skin by alleviating itching and providing sufficient moisture. A person with a primarily Pitta constitution has qualities of fire and water. Pitta types tend to be fiery, focused, easily stressed, and have sensitive skin. Rose helps cool down their agitation and stress and provides tender soothing care to their 'difficult to handle' skin. Lastly, a person with a primarily Kapha constitution has qualities of earth and water. So Kapha types are typically calm, dependable, and occasionally lazy and have oily skin that tends to breakout.
Aromatherapy for Moms and Moms-to-be
Of all the ways in which aromatherapy is used, for you we recommend a nice, soothing massage. There is nothing more effective than a massage to get your blood circulating better. However, as an expecting or new mommy, you hardly have the time or will to go out of the way to get a massage. Wouldn't it be nice if something that you use daily works just as well as a massage oil? Something which you can apply by yourself, without having to pay a bomb for it? Something that you could use without having to worry about it being safe for your baby? Well, the good folks at Himalaya were certainly reading your mind when they came up with this body butter with aroma benefits just for you!
Of all the ways in which aromatherapy is used, for you we recommend a nice, soothing massage. There is nothing more effective than a massage to get your blood circulating better.
Himalaya FOR MOMS' soothing body butter is ideal for a relaxing, grease-free massage. Available in lavender, rose and jasmine, there's something for every doshapersonality. Being thicker and smoother than a regular moisturizer, it is easy to massage onto skin. And the result is a relaxed, energized you with silky smooth and youthful skin. For best results, it is recommended to slightly warm the butter by rubbing your hands before application. While picking a maternity body butter, ensure that the formulation is natural, free from harmful chemicals and doesn’t have any side effects for you or your baby.
Now that you are armed with the knowledge of this ancient medicinal therapy, make sure you get the most out of it. While you can massage the body butter onto the skin on your own, why not get your spouse to do it for you? It’s great both for the skin as well as for your bonding with your husband. Beautiful skin, energy and relaxation - with these amazing benefits in one powerful therapy, what's not to love? Read more
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Santu has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
12 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
1) till how many days after delivery baby needs to keep on uterus temperatures/warm temperature?
2) Can baby & mother both take bath after 24 hours of delivery?
Santu
Mom of 2 children
12 hours ago
A. It depends on moms and babys health I feel and suggest It's better to check with your doctor and follow their advise. That would be one of the best and safest option for your baby as of now. Take care.
shilpi Bhandari has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
11 hours ago
Q. dual marker test is for what purpose??
shilpi Bhandari
Mom of 2 children
11 hours ago
A. The double marker test helps determine whether the unborn baby has any risk of developing neurological abnormalities or mental disorders
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Mom of a 7 m old child
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts
How to cure constipation in Babies
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. Constipation in Babies less than 1 year is very common and more in formula fed babies and also when initially the semi solid food has been started after 6 months .
you can give bonnisan drops and some enzyme preparations in proper dose suggested by doctor angyd cow's milk should be avoided before 1 year of age . Medications are required but it shobuld be given only in medical supervision .
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. Hello, I'm a hypothyroidism patients consumes 25mg tab,
can I take apple cider vinegar?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
5 hours ago
A. I don’t think so ACv is going to be a problem but it would be better that you check with your doctor because Apple cider vinegar has couple of side-effects also also which a lot of people are not aware about so do not take it without your doctors advice and consent
Mohammad amin has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts can i go for long trips with my 7 months old baby
Mohammad amin
Guardian of a 3 yr old boy
8 mins ago
A. if you are comfortable then go
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts plz suggest me medicine for toothache
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. A proper assessment is required here so regarding this it is vmore favourable to contact your local doctor and accordingly he will guide in a proper manner.
If any more queries you can tgake online consultation on the platform for a detailed discussion .
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