Yeast Infection During Pregnancy
What is a yeast infection?
A yeast infection happens when there is an overgrowth of a fungus that lives naturally on all of us in small numbers. At its usual state this fungus, Candida Albicans is not even noticed by us, it does not hurt us in any way. It is kept in small numbers by the good bacteria we also have in our bodies. But there are various factors that can upset the balance between the good bacteria and the fungus. When the good bacteria get killed the fungus will grab that opportunity to multiply and over grow. A vaginal yeast infection is the most common form of yeast infections, though it will grow anywhere that is moist and warm including the mouth, under arms, the penis and intestinal. Vaginal yeast infection has symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, pain when urinating and when having sex, an unusual though not unpleasant odor and a white cottage cheese like discharge.
Unfortunately for pregnant women, a yeast infection during pregnancy is very common, as the imbalance of hormones at this time puts a woman more at risk, particularly in her third trimester. This is because these raging hormones affect the pH level of the vagina and upset the balance there, allowing the fungus the opportunity to overgrow. Now the last thing a woman needs in her third trimester are the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, she has enough discomforts and aches to deal with as it is.
Possible risks of a yeast infection during pregnancy
These are risks if the infection is very severe and is ignored for a long time.
- Premature birth of the baby
- Weight gain during pregnancy can be affected so that you are not gaining enough
- Serious cases can cause pelvic inflammatory disease which can lead to infertility
- Urinary tract infections
- Baby could become infected
- Severe cases can cause the foetus to abort
What to do if you are pregnant and think you have a yeast infection
It is important if you do spot signs of a yeast infection before your doctor does at your regular check ups that you bring it to his or her attention straight away. Do not self treat but nor should it be ignored, as the symptoms will just get worse. There are medications that are safe for pregnant women to use including some over the counter treatments, but it is still very important that you talk to your doctor before using anything just in case yours is a special case. Usually the creams and vaginal suppositories are safe but the pills are not and can cause damage to the baby and cause birth defects.
There are things you can do at home to help. Natural cures are usually safe though since this is your health and your unborn child even natural remedies should be okayed by your doctor first. Natural remedies that are proven effective include yogurt, raw garlic, apple cider vinegar even cranberries! Of course better than treating an existing infection is to prevent it or minimize the chances of it happening. Eat a diet that is anti yeast! Leafy green vegetables, low in sugar, lots of water, no processed or junk foods. Good for staying yeast clear and good for you and the baby’s general health.
Also since the yeast loves warm, damp and dark environments, wear loose clothing and cotton underwear so that the air circulates down there. Change out of wet clothing promptly, avoid any perfumed products on that area including only using gentle scent free soap. After showering, bathing or swimming make sure you dry the area thoroughly.
In all probability your doctor will prescribe you something for it. There is no need to worry about your baby, even if he or she is born with a yeast infection the hospital will treat them promptly and they will be in very little discomfort.
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