Pregnancy is a weird time.

The obvious stuff (bump, being sick, allegedly ‘glowing’) is well documented. But there are a lot of other side affects of gestating a human which are kept on the down low.

Specifically the ones which happen to your vagina.

Discharge

One of the first things that happens to your vagina during pregnancy is a change in the amount of discharge – specifically an increase.

While this can be alarming, it’s generally not cause for concern. A white or clear discharge is not a sign of anything untoward.

If your discharge is brown, pink or blood stained then you may want to contact your doctor. Spotting during pregnancy is extremely normal and not usually a sign of miscarriage, but worth checking on.

Sensitivity

One of the nice things about pregnancy is that your vagina becomes more sensitive thanks to increased blood flow.

This can result in easier and more intense orgasms.

Also, more good news, many women report having better orgasms after pregnancy.

Thrush and other infections

During pregnancy your immune system is not as strong as usual, meaning you’re more likely to get ill in general.

Hormonal changes in your body mean you’ve got more oestrogen, which helps the thrush bacteria to thrive. What fun.

Women are also more vulnerable to Bacterial Vaginosis and UTIs during pregnancy. See your doctor if you think you have either, and stay well hydrated to avoid the latter.

Queefing

There isn’t any official news on why women queef more during pregnancy, but anecdotally we know that they do.

Luckily it’s harmless, so nothing to worry about.

pH changes

The pH of your vagina is usually around 4.5 or below.

During pregnancy your vagina may become more acidic. Most people won’t notice the change but if you’re very sensitive it might smell different.

Colour

Due to increased blood flow to your vagina you might notice a darkening in its colour. It’ll go back to its original colour after your pregnancy is over.

Varicose veins

Yes, you can get them in your vagina. We’re sorry. We don’t make the rules, we just write about them.

Size

Some vaginas become engorged during pregnancy due to increased blood flow. Just as your feet, fingers and nose can swell up, so can your vagina.

If you’re worried about any swelling during pregnancy you should speak to your midwife or GP.

Incontinence

Yes, it’s possible that you’ll have issues with wetting yourself before the baby arrives.

It’s very common, but it can be stressful and embarrassing. Try to do regular kegels, and if you’re worried about it again, see your GP.

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