What Causes Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

Home Remedies For Yeast Infections During Pregnancy

YEAST INFECTION DURING PREGNANCY | TREATMENT, SYMPTOMS & PREVENTION | YEAST INECTIONS AND YOUR BABY

Yeast infections are the bane of every woman, and especially those who are pregnant.

Pregnancy increases your risk for a vaginal yeast infection, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis. This type of infection is caused by microscopic fungi in the Candida family, most commonly Candida albicans.

About three out of every four women will have at least one yeast infection in their lifetime and up to 45 percent will get two or more infections, according to an article published in American Family Physician in 2011 .

During pregnancy, infections caused by Candida are even more common. A 2009 study published in Canadian Family Physician found that yeast infections affect three out of four women in their lifetimes, and the infection occurs more frequently in pregnant women. Higher estrogen levels and higher glycogen content in vaginal secretions during pregnancy increase a womans risk of developing a yeast infection .

Similarly, a 2016 study published in Folia Medica reports that yeast is more likely to cause an infection during pregnancy due to hormone fluctuations .

Several studies make it clear that the reasons for this increased risk during pregnancy include a shift in the balance of vaginal microorganisms and a high estrogen level in the body. Other factors that can increase a womans risk of infection include reduced immune system activity, use of antibiotics, diabetes and an unhygienic lifestyle.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for yeast infections during pregnancy.

Getting Treated For Bv During Pregnancy Can Help Protect Your Baby

What is bacterial vaginosis?

BV is not a sexually transmitted infection , but it is common in sexually active women and it rarely happens to women who havent had sex. An STI is an infection you can get by have unprotected sex with an infected person. If you have BV thats not treated, it can increase your risk of getting an STD. Its important to have any infection treated during pregnancy to help protect you and your baby.

What causes BV?

We dont know for sure what causes BV. Any woman can get it, but youre at increased risk for BV if you:

Have new sex partners
Have more than one sex partner
Are African-American. BV is twice as common in African-American women than in white women.
Have an intrauterine device , especially if you have irregular bleeding. An IUD is a kind of birth control. It’s a t-shaped piece of plastic that’s placed in your uterus that helps prevents prevent pregnancy.

How can BV affect pregnancy?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 million pregnant women get BV each year. Pregnant women are at increased risk for BV because of hormone changes that happen during pregnancy. Hormones are chemicals made by the body.

If you have BV during pregnancy, your baby is at increased risk for premature birth and low birthweight. Premature birth is birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Low birthweight is when your baby is born weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces. Being born too early or too small can cause health problems for your baby.

Treating Bacterial Vaginosis Naturally During Pregnancy

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by several different types of bacteria. Many women dont experience any symptoms, but some may develop a white or grayish, fishy-smelling discharge. In some cases, the discharge may also appear frothy.

Unfortunately, bacterial vaginosis cannot be treated naturally. It is important to take action and contact your healthcare provider because bacterial vaginosis has been associated with preterm delivery, low-birth-weight infants, preterm/pre-labor membrane rupture, and late-term miscarriages.

How To Treat A Yeast Infection When You’re Pregnant

Even if youve had yeast infections before and are a pro at self-diagnosing, its best to call your provider before using an over-the-counter medication. Why? Some women who think they have a yeast infection actually have a bacterial infection like bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis, and a yeast infection medication will only prolong the issue.

If you have a yeast infection, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription antifungal cream or vaginal suppository. The following over-the-counter and prescription yeast infection treatments are generally considered safe during pregnancy, but be sure to check with your practitioner before starting treatment.

When Does Vaginal Thrush Occur During Pregnancy

The early months of pregnancy are the perfect time for yeast overgrowth.

This is the time when your body has a whole plethora of major changes such as pH imbalance, hormone imbalance, and even a high risk of gestational diabetes.

Most women experience a yeast infection during pregnancy in the second trimester. Some women might even notice vaginal fungal infection symptoms in their third trimester.

So you have to take extra precautions to avoid candidiasis during the early and mid-pregnancy months.

Don’t Miss: Yeast Infection Treatment For Pregnant Women

What Are Its Symptoms

a burning sensation while peeing
a rash that appears in and around the vulva, which can spread to other areas like the thighs and the groin.

These signs can take from a few hours or even weeks to subside.

In newly born babies and those women that have a weak immune system, the yeast infection might occur in the mouth area. This is referred to as thrush.

However, if you are experiencing these symptoms, it does not always mean that you are suffering from a yeast infection as some other conditions also come with the same types of signs and symptoms like:

an allergic reaction to a type of soap that you have used to clean your genitals or a birth control method such as a condom.
a sexually transmitted disease like gonorrhea and chlamydia

Diagnosis Of A Yeast Infection

While you could likely deduce the cause of the problem without an appointment, it is important to determine what type of yeast infection you have in order to obtain an effective treatment. The Mayo Clinic notes that the fungus candida albicans is responsible for most vaginal yeast infections. However, candida glabrata and candida tropicalis can also be the cause.

Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Dogs Yeast Infection

Does My Sexual Partner Need To Be Treated If I Have A Vaginal Yeast Infection

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Yeast infections are a very common fungal infection that most women or people assigned female at birth will have in their lifetime. Its highly treatable with medication, some of which are available to purchase at your local drug store without a prescription. Even though you may know the signs of a vaginal yeast infection, its important to get examined by your healthcare provider. They can recommend the best treatment based on the type of yeast infection you have and its severity.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 09/02/2022.

References

Yeast Infection Vs Pregnancy Discharge: Whats The Difference

Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

You might notice a vaginal discharge in the early stages and its completely normal. So how would you recognize the yeast infection vs. pregnancy discharge?

Here are a few differences and similarities you should know:

Pregnancy Discharge
Resembles mucus	Resembles cottage cheese

The easiest way to tell apart pregnancy discharge vs. yeast infection discharge is by looking at its appearance. Fungal fluid is thick, lumpy, and odorless while the other is thin and watery.

Don’t Miss: What Are The Symptoms For Yeast Infection

Q: What Steps Can Reduce The Risk Of Yeast Infection

A:During pregnancy and otherwise, take the following precautions:

Wipe front to back after using the toilet.
Avoid using scented tampons, pads, and pantyliners.
Change tampons, pads, and pantyliners often.
Avoid very hot baths and hot tubs.
Wear underwear with a cotton lining to promote airflow.
Wear loose fitting clothing.
Manage your blood sugar if you have diabetes or gestational diabetes.
Remove wet workout clothes and swimsuits as soon as possible after activities.

If youre pregnant and notice signs of a yeast infection, discuss treatment options with your doctor so you can eliminate these disruptive symptoms. To request an appointment, call orrequest online.

Can Thrush Hurt My Unborn Baby

There is no evidence to suggest that having thrush while youre pregnant will harm your baby. Your baby is safely sealed inside you womb and will not into come into contact with the yeast infection. If you have thrush when the baby is born they can catch the infection during labour, however this is very straight forward to treat and nothing to worry about.

Recommended Reading: How To Treat Bleeding Yeast Infection

You May Like: What Is Good For Yeast Infection

Antibiotics And Yeast Infections

Taking antibiotics is one of the best ways to combat bacterial infections. This is why doctors prescribe antibiotics whenever their patients suffer from conditions like ear infections, strep throat, urinary tract infections , and many more. However, there are also certain instances where taking antibiotics may cause the body harm instead of helping it recover. One good example is the development of new infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis.

Preventing Yeast Infections During Pregnancy

Here are some tips to help you prevent yeast infections from developing while you are pregnant:

Do not use deodorant sprays
Wear cotton panties or panties with cotton in the vaginal area
Wear loose fitting clothes or skirts
Wipe from front to back after bowel movements
Avoid douching, bubble baths, sanitary pads or tampons that contain deodorant, and colored or perfumed toilet paper
Keep genital area dry and clean
Avoid spending too much time sitting in a wet bathing suit
Talk with your doctor about additional prevention measures you can take
Limit your sugar intake
When your body is rested, it has an easier time fighting infections, so get plenty of rest during your pregnancy.
Increase the lactobacillus acidophilus intake in your diet. This ingredient is commonly found in yogurt.

Do not wait to contact your doctor if you have symptoms of a yeast infection. These symptoms are similar to other types of infections and conditions that may not be as easily treated and can lead to problems in a pregnancy.

If you begin treatment and do not see an improvement within three days, contact your doctor again to reschedule an appointment.

Recommended Reading: Boric Acid Suppositories For Yeast Infection

Your Yeast Infection Treatment Options

Expecting moms should make every effort to treat their yeast infection before the arrival of their little one.

This is because the infection can be passed to your baby through their mouth during delivery which will then give your baby a painful infection called thrush.

Over-the-counter yeast infection treatments can come in the form of a cream, ointment or a suppository .

Your doctor may recommend using a treatment like:

These products are safe for both mom and baby at any point during the pregnancy.

Be aware that there are some products which should not be taken while pregnant.

Make sure you advise your doctor that you are pregnant or that you might be pregnant.

A lot of moms who have experienced yeast infections while pregnant have tried natural remedies.

Is yogurt good for yeast infection? One of the most common natural remedies for yeast infections is yogurt and probiotics. They are considered good bacteria. These will restore the vaginas population of nice bacteria, like Lactobacillus.

One of the most popular is plain, unsweetened yogurt.

It can be effective because it contains the bacterium Lactobacillus acidophilus which is present in healthy vaginas.

There are a few ways you can apply this treatment, including:

Squeezing it into the vaginal canal with a de-needled syringe or clean condiment bottle

Also Check: Antibiotics For E Coli Infection

How To Treat A Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

For a yeast infection in pregnancy, treatment is generally an over-the-counter vaginal cream or suppositories. These might include Clotrimazole Miconazole or Terconazole. Oral medications such as fluconazole are not recommended during pregnancy.

If you have to wait a few days to see your doctor, Tahery says you can apply 1 percent hydrocortisone externally to help control itching. If you are desperate, you can use a small amount just on the lips of the vulva, which will offer some relief, he says.

But Tahery cautions against using boric acid suppositories to treat yeast infections during pregnancy. Boric acid and other homeopathic treatments havent been tested in pregnancy, so I wouldnt recommend them, he says.

If you have a yeast infection that somehow goes undetected, it will likely clear up after you deliver. These will usually self-resolve after pregnancy, unless you were having chronic yeast infections before you got pregnant, perhaps due to a condition such as diabetes, says Tahery.

Sometimes having one yeast infection during pregnancy can cause repeated ones until you deliver. If you are having recurring yeast infections during pregnancy, its best to work with your doctor to figure out a plan. Along with medication, you may need to make lifestyle changes like wearing more breathable clothing or changing your underwear more frequently, since yeast thrives in wet, humid conditions.

Is It Normal To Get Thrush In Early Pregnancy

During pregnancy many women experience thrushand this is completely normal. Your body is going through a huge amount of changes that can disrupt your bodys natural harmony and this can make you more susceptible to thrush.

This unbalancing of bacteria and microorganisms can lead to yeast infections, as the Candida albicans that live in your body multiple uncontrollably. You might find that during your pregnancy you have recurring thrush or that the symptoms can take a while to clear even with treatment.

What Are The Symptoms Of Yeast Infections

Yeast Infections, Causes and Symptoms

The symptoms of a yeast infection may include one or more of the following:

Discharge that is usually white/tan in color, similar to cottage cheese and may smell like yeast/bread
Other discharge may be greenish or yellowish, also similar to cottage cheese and may smell like yeast/bread
An increase in discharge
Burning sensation during urination or intercourse

Don’t Miss: How To Treat Yeast Infection Cuts

Does Yeast Infection Cause Inflamed Cervix

Cervicitis is an inflammation of the cervix . Vaginitis can cause itching, irritation, discharge, or odor. Vaginitis can be caused by a yeast infection, bacteria, or trichomoniasis.

Hereof, what does an inflamed cervix mean?

Cervicitis is an inflammation and irritation of the cervix. Symptoms of cervicitis can be similar to vaginitis, with vaginal discharge, itching or pain with intercourse. Cervicitis can be caused by a sexually transmitted infection. Most common are chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Also Know, can early pregnancy cause inflammation of the cervix? Pregnancy hormones can cause the cervix to become more sensitive than usual. This is because of the increased blood supply in the tissues surrounding the cervix. This increased sensitivity means that any irritation to the cervix, such as intercourse or an internal examination, can result in spotting or bleeding.

Also, what are the symptoms of cervical infection?

Symptoms of cervicitis may include:

vaginal itching or irritation.
pain during a cervical exam.
frequent and painful urination.
unusual gray or white discharge that may smell.
a pressurized feeling in the pelvis.

What causes inflamed cervix during pregnancy?

Allergies: If someone is allergic to spermicides, douches, or latex in condoms, these may cause the cervix to become inflamed. An inflamed cervix may be a symptom of this. Pregnancy: This can affect hormone levels and lead to cervicitis as the cervix is much more sensitive at this time.

You May Like Also

How To Treat Vaginitis Naturally During Pregnancy

Yeast Infections are caused by a fungus . It is estimated that 75% of women will experience a yeast infection during their lifetime.

Those who are most susceptible to these infections are pregnant women, women with diabetes, women taking antibiotics, corticosteroid medications, or oral contraceptives , and/or women with iron deficiencies.While some may not experience any symptoms, the most common symptoms of yeast infections include:

Itchiness of the vaginal area
Abnormal discharge

Recommended Reading: Yeast Infection Treatment While Breastfeeding

How Can A Yeast Infection Be Prevented

Prevention is always better than cure. It is best to prevent the infection from happening in the first place rather than to cure the damage done by it. To prevent a yeast infection from happening, you should try to consume food that is rich in probiotics, or taking a supplement with cranberry in it might be of great help as well. Other than these, some other preventive measures are:

avoiding very tight clothes

Dont Miss: Can I Donate Plasma While Breastfeeding

Treating Symptoms Of A Yeast Infection When Pregnant

While the antifungal creams will cure the infection and help with some of the discomforts, you may find that you need some added relief. One of the easiest remedies is to purchase the Frida Mom Instant Ice Maxi Pads. Not only will it numb the area, but any extras will come in handy after the baby is born!

Recommended Reading: Yeast Skin Infection In Dogs

What Is A Yeast Infection In Pregnancy And Is It Common

Although yeast infections have no major effects on the unborn baby, they are difficult to control during pregnancy, and can cause significant discomfort to the woman. Therefore, if you are experiencing such symptoms during pregnancy, try to learn about it, and then consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Is It Safe To Use Over

Yes, but always talk with your doctor or nurse before treating yourself for a vaginal yeast infection. This is because:

You may be trying to treat an infection that is not a yeast infection. Studies show that two out of three women who buy yeast infection medicine dont really have a yeast infection.2 Instead, they may have an STI or bacterial vaginosis . STIs and BV require different treatments than yeast infections and, if left untreated, can cause serious health problems.
Using treatment when you do not actually have a yeast infection can cause your body to become resistant to the yeast infection medicine. This can make actual yeast infections harder to treat in the future.
Some yeast infection medicine may weaken condoms and diaphragms, increasing your chance of getting pregnant or an STI when you have sex. Talk to your doctor or nurse about what is best for you, and always read and follow the directions on the medicine carefully.

Also Check: Can Birth Control Cause Yeast Infection