Pregnancy Yeast Infection

Yeast infection are caused by the fungus known as candida albicans. The fungus is naturally found in the body. To be more specific, the body areas where the fungus grow are the vagina, gastrointestinal tract and the mouth. However, when the fungus multiplies and its presence exceeds beyond normal limit, it triggers yeast infection. When it invades the vagina, irritation in the form of itching in the vagina is observed. In this condition, the vagina appears inflamed and causes a burning sensation while urinating. Oral thrush also referred as yeast infection of the mouth, leads to the development of white creamy lesion on the tongue and inner cheeks.

Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

Hormonal imbalance during pregnancy causes yeast overgrowth and generally affects the vagina. Other factors that lead to yeast infection include intake of antibiotics. Pregnant women taking antibiotics, kill the 'good' bacteria that keep a check on fungal growth in our body.

13 to 27 weeks pregnant women are likely to suffer from yeast infection of the vagina. A distinct change in urine in the form of thick white vaginal discharge is observed. The urine many times produces a smelly odor.

Cures

There are different treatment options but one has to be very careful as wrong choice can harm the baby. Following are the treatment methods:

Anti - fungal Creams
Anti - fungal creams are commonly prescribed for the treatment of vaginal yeast infection. Miconazole cream when applied on the vagina, as instructed by the doctor can help to combat this infection.

Tea tree Oil
The essential tea tree oil has excellent antifungal properties that can help to get rid of vaginal yeast infection. However, it has to be diluted and one should not directly apply in the vaginal area. Generally water is used to dilute tea tree oil. Oral thrush is treated by gargling a solution of tea tree oil and water. The proportion of tea tree oil is as follows: When making this solution, ensure that every 2 tablespoons of water has 3 drops of oil.

Garlic or Boric Acid Suppositories
Suppositories that are made up of boric acid or garlic are also useful to get rid of yeast infection. Both garlic and boric acid provide anti fungal properties, hence simply inserting these suppositories into the vagina can help to resolve the issue.

Yogurt
Eating unsweetened yogurt or its external application in the vagina area, using a cotton plug is another effective remedy to cure yeast infection. Yogurt contains friendly bacteria (acidophilus) that can help to curb down yeast overgrowth.

Say No to Antifungal Drugs

Yeast, being a fungal infection, antifungal drugs have been developed to get rid of this fungus successfully. However, pregnant woman should avoid taking these drugs as they are bound to produce side effects, that eventually pass down to the baby.

It is observed that untreated yeast infection, may affect the developing baby. Although, not a serious issue, one cannot take any chances as babies have an underdeveloped immune system. So treating the infection at the earliest is necessary to ensure healthy delivery.