30 percent of women develop a vaginal yeast infection during pregnancy. The vaginal environment changes during this time due to hormonal shifts. Glucose levels in the mucous membranes rise. As a result, the yeast Candida albicans finds an ideal environment in which to multiply rapidly. This leads to a vaginal yeast infection.
How can a pregnant woman tell if she has a vaginal yeast infection?
The following symptoms may indicate a vaginal yeast infection:
- unpleasant-smelling discharge,
- Itching,
- Redness,
- Pain during sexual intercourse,
- Burning sensation when urinating.
Some women experience only mild symptoms or none at all, while others suffer more severely from some or all of the symptoms. The infection usually peaks three days after it begins.
Treatment of Vaginal Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
To treat a vaginal yeast infection during pregnancy, the gynecologist prescribes antifungal creams and vaginal suppositories to the expectant mother. The pregnant woman must not shorten the treatment duration agreed upon with her doctor in order to prevent the fungal pathogens from spreading again. She should avoid alternative treatments, as various doctors believe these have a negative effect on the vaginal environment.
Does a vaginal yeast infection during pregnancy pose a risk to the baby?
A vaginal yeast infection during pregnancy does not pose a direct risk to either the mother or the baby. Nevertheless, pregnant women should take care not to let the infection linger. The vaginal lining, which is irritated by the yeast infection, provides an ideal environment for bacteria and other pathogens. These can lead to bacterial vaginosis and, consequently, increase the risk of preterm birth.
If left untreated, a vaginal yeast infection can lead to the child becoming infected during delivery. As a result of the infection, the child develops thrush. The infection primarily affects the mouth and diaper area. Although the infection does not pose a danger to the child, it causes severe pain. As a precaution, gynecologists perform a yeast culture during the 34th week of pregnancy to rule out a possible infection. If an infection is present, the gynecologist will begin treatment immediately.
Tips for Preventing Vaginal Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
- Do not use intimate wash products or sprays,
- use breathable hygiene products—such as panty liners without a plastic coating,
- avoid synthetic clothing,
- Wear breathable clothing and underwear, such as cotton—washable at a minimum of 60 °C,
- Avoid hot tubs—there is a risk of vaginal yeast infections due to the heat and low water volume in the tub,
- Preventing excess weight—a fungus-friendly environment due to lack of air circulation,
- Wiping from front to back after using the toilet—risk of pathogens from the intestinal area entering the vagina,
Additional website on the topic of vaginal yeast infection
The magazine for a better life, LZ-Gesundheitsreport.de, addresses the topic of vaginal yeast infections. Online, you can read about the misconceptions surrounding women affected by this condition. The website dedicated to vaginal yeast infections also explains why these misconceptions are unfounded. If you’re wondering when the risk of infection is highest or what to expect regarding sex while you have the condition, you’ll find the answers in the LZ-Gesundheitsreport.
