Spotting and Discharge in Pregnancy

Pregnancy can increase normal vaginal discharge, which is often clear or milky and not strongly scented. A small amount of blood may mix with it when the cervix is sensitive or irritated, including after sex or an examination. Brown discharge often represents older blood, while fresh red blood needs closer attention.

A strong or unpleasant smell, yellow or green discharge, itching, burning, pain when urinating, or pelvic pain can point to infection and should be assessed. Chlamydia is one infection that may cause bleeding between periods or after sex, sometimes with few symptoms. Discharge and spotting do not by themselves establish the cause.

Wear a pad and observe the amount without inserting a tampon. Write down the discharge colour, odour, texture, bleeding pattern, cramps, and any fever. Contact your maternity team or clinician for advice, particularly if the discharge is new or changes. Avoid self-treating with leftover antibiotics or vaginal medicines because the suitable treatment depends on the cause and pregnancy stage.

Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, or feeling very unwell. Prompt review is also needed for bleeding with fluid leakage, contractions, or reduced fetal movement later in pregnancy. A clinician can decide whether examination, infection testing, blood tests, or ultrasound is needed.

Ask whether the discharge looks normal for your stage of pregnancy, whether you need a swab or urine test, and what changes should prompt an immediate call. Mention recent sex, examinations, medicines, and your blood group if known.