7 Ways Your Vagina Changes During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your vagina may undergo several changes. While these changes can be uncomfortable at times, they are a natural part of the process and are usually nothing to worry about, but to put your mind at ease, we’re sharing what you need to know about common vaginal changes during pregnancy.

7 ways your vagina might change during pregnancy

1. Increased blood flow means vaginal swelling, and heightened sensitivity

   During pregnancy, your blood flow increases to support your growing baby. The increased blood flow can make the vaginal tissue feel and appear swollen and possibly darker in color. In some cases, increased blood flow leads to heightened sensitivity in the vulva and vagina. Leading to easier and more pleasurable orgasms for some women. 

   Check out: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Pregnancy Orgasms. 

2. Vaginal discharge

   During pregnancy, it's common to experience an increase in vaginal discharge, known as leukorrhea. This discharge can happen at any point during pregnancy and is typically thin, milky-white, and odorless. It serves several purposes, including keeping the vaginal area clean and preventing infections. However, the increased production of leukorrhea can be bothersome for some women. It's important to note that if the discharge changes in color, consistency, or smell, it could be a sign of an infection, and medical attention should be sought.

3. Changes in vaginal ph and increased risk of infections 

   Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to changes in vaginal pH, which refers to the acidity or alkalinity of the vaginal environment, which typically remains slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 3.8 to 4.5, in non-pregnant women. However, during pregnancy, the hormonal shifts that occur can alter this pH balance, which may make you more susceptible to yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. It's important to maintain good hygiene, wear breathable underwear to prevent any discomfort and seek medical advice if there are concerns about pH levels or unusual discharge, as imbalances can still occur.

4. Your vagina may smell and taste different

   The changes in your vaginal ph can also impact the way your vagina smells and tastes. According to the Journal of Perinatal Education, the vagina tastes more metallic or salty during pregnancy. The research also suggests that the taste often goes away after orgasm. As for the smell, it’s suggested that the change is because of your fluctuating hormones, however, it may seem more pungent to you because your senses are also heightened during pregnancy.

   Remember, if the smell seems overpowering, or foul, comes with burning or itching, then you may have an infection and should speak to your doctor. 

5. Varicose veins 

   Just as in other parts of the body, varicose veins can also develop in the vaginal area during pregnancy and may appear on the vulva, in the vaginal canal, or in the area around the rectum (hemorrhoids). Vulvar varicose veins are caused by an increase in blood volume and a decrease in how fast your blood flows from your lower body. These swollen veins can cause discomfort, pain, or a feeling of fullness. Symptoms can be relieved by applying a cold compress, elevating your hips when lying down, and wearing a compression garment.

6. Increased vaginal flatulence

   Also known as queefing or vaginal flatus, vaginal flatulence occurs when a pocket of air gets trapped inside the vagina and, when released, makes a fart-like sound. It’s not known why pregnancy causes this to happen more often, but it’s thought that it’s a combination of a growing belly, exercise, overworked pelvic floor muscles, and trying different sex positions to accommodate bump. Psst. check out our top 5 comfortable and safe sex positions for pregnancy. 

7. Shooting pains in the vagina 

   While lightning crotch isn't recognized as a technical or medical term, it's a very real sensation that women in pregnancy experience. It's often described as sudden and shooting pain (almost electric shock-like) in the vagina, rectum, or general pelvic region, and takes a lot of women by surprise. Just like a bolt of lightning to your lady bits would… Not every woman in pregnancy will experience this, and it is more common later in the third trimester. There isn't any concrete evidence that points to the cause of this sensation, but it's believed to be a form of round ligament pain, or the result of your baby's position possibly pinching a nerve, or them descending deeper into the pelvis. Be sure to bring this up with your doctor if it's something you're experiencing regularly, but otherwise, we recommend checking out our post on pelvic pain for more support!

   If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider.

Understanding vaginal changes in pregnancy is crucial to ensure a healthy and comfortable pregnancy. While these changes can be uncomfortable at times, they are a natural part of the process and are usually nothing to worry about. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms in the vaginal area during pregnancy, don't hesitate to consult with your healthcare professional for guidance and support.

Have a question about vaginal changes during pregnancy? Let us know in the comments!

---