What causes vaginal discharge and swollen ankles during pregnancy?
Patient: I am 33 weeks pregnant and 34 weeks pregnant on Thursday. I have a mucousy discharge, swelling on my ankles, very bad back pain, cramps, and my abdomen seems soar. Also, I have pressure in my crotch. This has been going on for about a month now. I told my doctor about this but recieve no answers. What is happening? Is this normal? Doctor: Thank you for your query. The last trimester can be difficult. Your body is changing to accommodate your growing baby. The pelvic & abdominal muscles stretch, hips widen,adding more strain to your back. This puts pressure on your crotch and a constant need to be near the restroom just in case you need to urinate. Pillows are a blessing in disguise. Use them behind your back while you sit. Between your thighs and tummy when you sleep on your side to relieve pull on your back. The growing baby and uterus put pressure on the blood vessels that drain venous blood from your legs. This causes stasis and hence swelling in your ankles.  Keep your feet propped up at hip level when you sit. Facial swelling, eye puffiness, persistent headaches, blurring vision, severe itching  is not normal and need to be reported to your doctor immediately Occasional cramping and tightening of uterus are practice contractions called Braxton-Hicks. These may cause some discomfort. Remember that any tightening/ pain at regular intervals lasting more than an hour, a gush of water/blood could mean you are in Labour. See your doctor immediately. Your baby should stay in for at least another 3-4weeks, ideally 6weeks. Some mucus discharge is normal. A thick blob of mucus, however, with or without blood could also signal onset of Labour. Too much white discharge could indicate fungal infection (possible in pregnancy) which needs to be treated. Go for regular checkup. Monitor your baby's movements (2-5 an hour except when the little one is  sleeping). Stay well rested, nourished &  hydrated. Your symptoms are normally expected in pregnancy (although it varies from person to person). Just monitor for the warning signs. Here's wishing  you and your baby a safe, happy and healthy delivery. Please get back to us with further queries.