Treating Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

A yeast infection is an excessive growth of yeast cells in the genital area. Women tend to develop yeast infection easily, during pregnancy. Estrogen levels in the body increase during pregnancy, which results in the increased vaginal secretions. The vaginal area remains warm and damp because of these secretions. This helps in the development of yeast cells. Yeast infections cause severe vaginal and genital itching, pain, and irritation. The infection may also cause diseases in the bladder, which is why early diagnosis and treatment is very important.

Symptoms of Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

Signs of yeast infection can be extremely profuse, especially during pregnancy. Some common symptoms are given below:

• Odorless or starchy odor, white or yellowish discharge.
• Itching and burning sensation in the genital area.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Pain in the lower abdomen.
• Problems in urination (such as burning sensation and irritation).

Treatment for Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

Pregnancy yeast infection treatment usually includes several over-the-counter antifungal medications. Patients are usually advised to use some vaginal creams. In some cases, physicians also recommend antifungal capsules. Medicines such as miconazole (Monistat), butoconazole (Femstat), clotrimazole (Gyne Lotrimin), and terconazole (Terazol) are used to treat yeast infection; however, it is advisable to take medication after proper consultation with your physician. Pregnant women should avoid taking Diflucan medication, as it can be harmful for both mother and the baby. Starch-free drying powder like Nystatin also helps to minimize the irritation. Pregnant women must choose a safe medication for treating yeast infection, as some medicines can cause harmful side-effects on themselves as well as on the baby.

How to Prevent Yeast Infection

There are some simple tips to follow during the period of pregnancy, which prevent the development of the infection.

• A healthy diet during pregnancy helps to prevent any infection. Acidophilus-rich food, like yogurt, helps to maintain the natural flora of the vagina, and prevents the development of yeast infection.
• Limit intake of sugar and avoid eating foods that feed yeast, for e.g. bread.
• Avoid wearing tight or synthetic dresses. Use fabrics, in which you can breath comfortably. Use cotton undergarments.
• Do not wear wet clothes or a wet swimsuit for a prolonged period.
• Use mild soaps and perfumes during pregnancy, because harsh products can increase the irritation in the genital area.
• Keep the genital area uncovered for some time, during the day.

Post-pregnancy Yeast Infection

Thrush is a yeast infection which is common in newborns and develops in the first few weeks after birth. Yeast infection in infants causes white patches in the mouth and tongue. The infection can also spread to the nipples of the mother, causing pain and irritation, which creates problems in breastfeeding. Though, it is not serious, it needs to be treated immediately for the overall health of the mother and the baby.

Several other factors like hormone replacement therapy, broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, increase in the estrogen levels and few medications accentuate the risk of yeast infection. The time required for complete recovery from the infection can be ten to fourteen days. Women with yeast infection should avoid food and medication, which can accelerate the growth of yeast cells. A salubrious lifestyle with a well-balanced diet, low stress level and enough sleep helps in preventing pregnancy yeast infection.

If you experience any of the symptoms of yeast infection, consult your physician immediately. Early treatment will minimize the possible physical and psychological problems, you may have to face because of the infection.