At 38 weeks of pregnancy, does increased vaginal discharge mean labor is near?

Sep 05, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lv Aiming

Introduction

In general, whether increased vaginal discharge at 38 weeks of pregnancy indicates imminent labor should be determined based on specific circumstances. If a pregnant woman notices changes in her vaginal discharge—including increased volume, or unusual changes in color or odor—it is recommended to consult a doctor or obstetrician for evaluation according to the specific situation, and to receive appropriate advice and guidance.

Generally speaking, whether increased vaginal discharge at 38 weeks of pregnancy indicates imminent delivery needs to be determined based on specific circumstances. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Not necessarily

Vaginal discharge in pregnant women undergoes various changes during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations and cervical changes. In early pregnancy, discharge usually increases and becomes thicker. In late pregnancy, as the cervix gradually dilates and softens, vaginal discharge may increase, become thinner, or even appear as slightly sticky brownish secretion. These are normal signs indicating the body's preparation for labor, but they do not clearly indicate that delivery is about to happen immediately.

2. Yes

However, if a pregnant woman at 38 weeks experiences increased vaginal discharge accompanied by regular abdominal pain, spotting (bloody show), or fluid leakage from the vagina, along with regular uterine contractions lasting 30 seconds or longer, progressive shortening of the cervical canal, and cervical dilation, these are definite signs of labor onset. In such cases, it is recommended to go to the hospital promptly for delivery.

If a pregnant woman notices any unusual changes in her vaginal discharge—including increased volume, changes in color, or abnormal odor—she should consult a doctor or obstetrician for evaluation based on individual circumstances, and receive appropriate advice and guidance.

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Is leg soreness and pain at 38 weeks of pregnancy a sign that labor is near?

At 38 weeks of pregnancy, the growing fetus and uterus gradually increase the pregnant woman's weight, which may place extra pressure on the leg joints and muscles, causing soreness. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and does not necessarily indicate that labor is imminent. However, if leg soreness is accompanied by increased vaginal discharge or intensified contractions, these could be signs that labor is approaching.

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Diarrhea with abdominal pain at 38 weeks of pregnancy

Diarrhea, commonly referred to as "loose bowels," during week 38 of pregnancy accompanied by abdominal pain may be related to signs of labor, poor diet, a cold abdomen, false labor contractions (Braxton Hicks), or acute gastroenteritis. Pregnant women are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital and receive appropriate treatment based on the specific condition. In late pregnancy, it is important to maintain a light diet, relax the body, and avoid prolonged periods of stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions.