Pregnancy – Could It Be A Reason behind Yeast Infection?

Mar 3, 2016 by Yeast Expert

Vaginal yeast infections represent a frequent medical issue affecting pregnant women. The infection per se develops as a result of an overgrowth of Candida species, members of a normal flora in the human body which, under certain circumstances, start multiplying uncontrollably, triggering all the unpleasant symptoms of the disease.

The body of a pregnant woman in subjected to constant fluctuations of hormones. Such imbalance may easily disturb the optimal level of acidity in the vagina and allow the infection to occur. As a result, the woman starts experiencing vaginal discomfort, itchiness and perhaps burning sensation, all of which are accompanied by white, cottage cheese-like discharge of a specific smell. The amount of discharge varies according to the

severity of the infection.

Yeast infections are known to occur more when the level of sugar in the blood is high, which is normally reported in diabetics. As far as pregnant women are concerned, their vaginal secretions contain more sugar which explains frequent or repeated infection caused by Candida species. Additionally, some pregnant women may develop gestational diabetes (a type of diabetes characteristic only for pregnant women) which contributes to vaginal infections of this type.

Before any treatment begins, a woman must undergo a thorough examination and the infection must be confirmed. There are other vaginal infections resembling yeast infections which require different approach.

After the confirmation, the infection doctor chooses the best possible medication paying close attention to what he/she prescribes. Namely, pregnant women are not allowed to take many drugs during pregnancy because these might cause harm to them or their babies. When it comes to vaginal candidiasis, most pregnant women are prescribed only vaginal creams and vaginalettes. Still, even the brand of these should be carefully chosen. The treatment lasts no longer than two weeks. Sometimes, women continue using certain products such as Nystatin powder which prevent recurrent episodes of the infection. All in all, the infection must be taken care of since it can cause problems during delivery and be passed onto the baby.

Since pregnant women are quite susceptible to yeast infections of the vagina and repeated vaginal candidiasis they should also be familiar with precautionary measures, the ones that will help them avoid the infection in the first place or prevent its relapse. For example, they should wear only loose underwear made of cotton, maintain impeccable hygiene of the genital area, wipe only from front to back as well as avoid douching and perfumed feminine hygiene products. What is more, the diet should contain yoghurt rich in Lactobacillus acidophilus. Intake of sugar in general along with products containing sugar ought to be limited. However, even if in spite of all the measures of precaution infection does return, a woman must not hesitate and should feel obligated to contact her physician as soon as possible.