Yeast Infections

Vaginal Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

Yeast infections are a familiar type of vaginal infection that are even more frequent in pregnant women. These infections also called monilial vaginitis or vaginal candidiasis are sourced by microscopic fungi in the Candida family, most normally Candida albicans. It is not unusual to have a certain amount of yeast in vagina, as well as in intestinal tract. Yeast simply becomes a trouble when it grows so fast that it overcomes other competing microorganisms. The higher level of estrogen during pregnancy causes vagina to produce more glycogen, making it even easier for yeast to produce there. Some researchers think estrogen may also have a straight effect on yeast, causing it to grow sooner and stick more easily to the walls of the vagina.

Precaution at the time of pregnancy: At the time of pregnancy if there is a yeast infection, see the practitioner. The doctor will take a sample of vaginal discharge and check it to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other things that may be causing the symptoms. Although antifungal medication is available over the counter, it is not a good idea to try to diagnose and treat self without seeing a practitioner. The symptoms may be caused by something else, like a sexually transmitted infection, instead of or along with yeast. Oral antifungal drugs must not be taken during pregnancy to treat vaginal yeast infections. For mainly yeast infections, creams and suppositories with clotrimazole are more effectual than those containing nystatin. The shorter-course routine that one might have used before are not as effective when someone is pregnant. It is also a excellent idea to apply some of the antifungal cream to the part just outside the vagina.

Be safe at pregnancy time: 1. Wear cotton underwear and avoid pantyhose and tight pants. 2. Get out of wet bathing suit promptly after swimming and change underwear after exercising. 3. Try sleeping without underwear at night to allow air to get to genital area. If the person prefers to wear something to bed, a nightgown without underwear allows more air circulation than pajama bottoms. 4. Evade bubble baths, perfumed soaps, scented laundry detergent and feminine hygiene sprays. While it is not clear whether these items contribute to yeast infections, they can cause bothersome genital irritation so are best avoided. 5. Clean genital area gently with warm water. Never douche during pregnancy. 6. At all times wipe from front to back. 7. Eat yogurt as it helps maintain the proper bacterial balance in the gut and vagina.

Yeast Infections