What is leucorrhoea?

 In the presence of leucorrhoea, is it a signal of not being pregnant?

A: Vaginal discharge plays an important role in maintaining a healthy vagina. The secretions are designed to flush out bacteria and other tiny organisms, to prevent infection. Normal vaginal discharge is odorless and a clear or pale milky color. The amount and consistency may vary greatly among women and at different times of an individual’s menstrual cycle.

Women often have much less vaginal discharge before they menstruate for the first time (menarche) or after menopause. During pregnancy, vaginal discharge tends to increase. This is probably one of the body’s natural methods for preventing infection and thereby protecting the fetus.

Doctors generally do not use the term leukorrhea (also spelled leucorrhoea), perhaps because the definitions vary. It basically refers to a whitish vaginal discharge which may or may not be abnormal. Vaginal discharge is not an indicator of lack of pregnancy. What abnormal discharge may indicate is irritation, inflammation or infection, including sexually transmitted diseases. Abnormal vaginal discharge may be greenish, yellowish or even brownish in color. It may be thick or lumpy in consistency and have a foul smell.

If you are trying to get pregnant and you have abnormal discharge, it could be a symptom of a condition that is interfering with your ability to conceive. It always is a good idea to see a doctor when you have abnormal discharge because any of the conditions that cause it require medical attention.

Date Published: July 28, 1999
Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999

Nancy Snyderman, M.D., F.A.C.S