What Causes Yeast Infection In Pregnancy

Favorite Organizations For Yeast Infection Info

The Mayo Clinic is a well-respected, integrated clinical practice, education, and research institution that prides itself on offering the most up-to-date medical information to the public. On this website users can readily access an easy-to-digest overview of yeast infections, but one of our favorite features is the “preparing for your appointment” section, which highlights questions patients will want to ask their healthcare provider during the diagnosis and treatment process.

MedlinePlus is the patient-centered offshoot of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, and offers need-to-know basics of yeast infections. But its also a thorough clearinghouse for the latest yeast infection clinical trials and published journal articles. We also love that the site breaks down yeast infection information by patient, like children, teens, and men.

OWH is a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services created to address critical health issues that affect women, making this an excellent source for yeast infection information. The fact sheet filled with frequently asked questions is especially helpful, as is their Find a Health Center widget.

How Are Vaginal Yeast Infections Diagnosed

In most cases, you can treat this complaint in the privacy of your own home and will soon know if you are suffering from a yeast infection of not by the improvement, or lack of, you are likely to experience. To firmly establish the diagnosis and to rule out any other underlying causes of the symptoms, your doctor will take a specimen, a smear test, scraped from the affected area for microscopic analysis or for culture in a laboratory. Identification of yeast under a microscope, when possible, is the least expensive and most rapid and accurate way to establish the diagnosis and in chronic cases I always recommend identification.

Early detection is important because you may have another condition that may present just like a yeast infection for example such as gardnerella, which is a bacterial infection and not a yeast infection.

Yeast Infection Pregnancy Symptoms

Besides extreme discomfort, soreness, and the urge to scratch, the most common symptom of a yeast infection is a thick, white vaginal discharge that has a cottage cheese-like consistency. It is important to remember that pregnancy will bring excess discharge, and while it can be white in color, it should be very thin. You may also notice redness and inflammation of the vulva as well as a burning sensation when you pee.

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How To Treat A Yeast Infection When Youre Pregnant

Even if youve had yeast infections before and are a pro at self-diagnosing, its best to call your provider before using an over-the-counter medication. Why? Some women who think they have a yeast infection actually have a bacterial infection like bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis, and a yeast infection medication will only prolong the issue.

If you have a yeast infection, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription antifungal cream or vaginal suppository. The following over-the-counter and prescription yeast infection treatments are generally considered safe during pregnancy, but be sure to check with your practitioner before starting treatment.

Yeast Infection After Sex

While its possible to develop a yeast infection after sex, a yeast infection itself is not an STI. Instead, there are other factors at play that can throw off Candida balance in the vaginal area. Vaginal intercourse, as well as penetration via sex toys and fingers, can introduce bacteria.

most common type of vaginal infection in women between the ages of 15 and 44. Its primary causes are bacterial imbalances from douching and sex its not a fungal infection like a typical yeast infection. BV is said to have a strong fishy odor, too.

BV has similar symptoms as a yeast infection, including discharge, burning, and itching. This can make distinguishing between the two infections difficult. But while a vaginal yeast infection doesnt cause long-term complications, untreated BV can.

Among the complications include fertility issues and premature delivery , and a higher risk of contracting STIs.

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Can A Yeast Infection Cause Cramps How Why And What To Do

Well, it can if you dont treat the condition.

The most common symptoms of a Candida yeast infection include muscle aches, fatigue, pain when urinating and having sex, irritability, and depression.

When a woman has a yeast infection, she knows the pain and suffering that come with it.

Not only do the symptoms include painful and burning sexual pleasure, but they can include bloating, and even swelling of the vaginal area.

How Is Candidiasis Treated

Most of the time, vulvovaginal candidiasis is easy to treat with an antifungal cream or suppository. The medicine should relieve your symptoms within seven days. However, during pregnancy, you should see your doctor before starting treatment. They can confirm that you actually have a yeast infection and ensure you get a treatment thats safe to use during pregnancy.

Both oral and topical antifungal drugs are used to treat yeast infections in nonpregnant women. However, oral drugs may not be safe to use during pregnancy. A 2016 study in found an association between higher risk of miscarriage and oral fluconazole use during pregnancy. Oral antifungal drugs have also been linked to birth defects.

Topical antifungal drugs that are safe to use during pregnancy include:

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What Is A Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

Yeast infections are common in women, especially when you’re pregnant. Increased estrogen in your pregnant body can throw off the normal balance of yeast and bacteria in your . This may let the yeast overgrow. Most yeast infections during pregnancy result from the fungus candida albicans. Two other kinds of yeast that can also cause them are candida glabrata and candida tropicalis.

Yeast infections aren’t pleasant, but they won’t hurt you or your baby. And they can be safely treated, usually with a topical cream.

Is It Harmful For My Baby

Yeast infections do not affect the growing baby. However, if you have a yeast infection at the time of labour, the baby might contract it as it passes through the birth canal. It leads to an infant yeast infection of the mouth called thrush. It is characterised by white patches on the mouth, roof of the mouth, sides, and the tongue. Though not severe, the infection can come back while breastfeeding. It can be easily treated with antifungal medication for the baby, and an ointment for the mother.

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Preventive Measures For Yeast Infection In Pregnancy

You can lower your chances of getting yeast infections in the future by doing the following:

• Use your blow dryer on a low, cold setting to gently dry the outside of your genital area after a regular wash
• Properly wipe down the toilet after using it
• After swimming, take a shower right away. Change out of your swimsuit, gym clothes, or other damp clothing as quickly as possible.

What Is A Yeast Infection Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment And Prevention

Most women and some men will have a yeast infection at some point in their lives.

A vaginal yeast infection is an infection resulting from the overgrowth of yeast a type of fungus of the genus Candida.

Also called candidal vaginitis, vaginal candidiasis, or vulvovaginal candidiasis, yeast infections are most commonly caused by Candida albicans.

It is easily treated with antifungal medication. If symptoms persist for more than a week, check with your doctor to rule out a more serious condition.

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Yeast Infection And Periods

Having both a yeast infection and your period can feel like a double whammy. However, this isnt uncommon. Yeast infections are most likely to occur in women during the final days leading up to their period.

If you experience white to yellow discharge in the week before your period, this isnt automatically a yeast infection unless you have other hallmark symptoms, too, such as redness, burning, and itchiness.

Does A Yeast Infection Cause Infertility

Women trying to conceive with a yeast infection are likely to wonder whether or not they can get pregnant with a yeast infection. There is no need to panic as you can conceive even if you have a yeast infection because there is no conclusive evidence that indicates yeast infections cause infertility in women. However, the symptoms associated with yeast infections, which include soreness, swelling, irritation, and burning sensations can make sex uncomfortable and painful. So, a woman suffering from a yeast infection may not be inclined to engage in intercourse. Therefore, a yeast infection does not directly impact fertility, but it can certainly contribute to the problems of becoming pregnant by interfering with the persons sex life. Also, recurrent yeast infections can create a hostile environment for the sperm, making conception difficult.

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Will My Partner Get Infected With It During Sex

The chances are rare, but the infection can be passed between sexual partners. If the male partner develops symptoms such as redness, itching, rashes, or burning, it is a good idea to abstain from sex, and seek treatment immediately.

Although it does not pose a serious health risk, a yeast infection is a common irritant during pregnancy. Adopt simple preventive and remedial practices to ensure you reduce the chances of contracting this infection, and do make sure to consult a doctor if you do.

Symptoms Of A Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

When you develop a yeast infection, the symptoms are normally bothersome until they are treated. The symptoms include:

• Leukorrhea, an odourless vaginal discharge that has a white, creamy, or cottage cheese-like appearance
• Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse
• Burning sensation when you urinate
• Bad odour similar to the smell of yeast from beer or bread

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What Should I Do If I Get Repeat Yeast Infections

If you get four or more yeast infections in a year, talk to your doctor or nurse.

About 5% of women get four or more vaginal yeast infections in one year. This is called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis . RVVC is more common in women with diabetes or weak immune systems, such as with HIV, but it can also happen in otherwise healthy women.

Doctors most often treat RVVC with antifungal medicine for up to six months. Researchers also are studying the effects of a vaccine to help prevent RVVC.

Favorite Website For Kids Yeast Issues

Powered by the pediatricians behind the American Academy of Pediatrics, the yeast infection section of their website highlights all the essential info needed on the hows and whys of yeast infections in girls and young women. We appreciate that the site also has solid info on other candida infections that children and teens can experience, complete with a symptom checker chart.

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What Is A Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are a common type of vaginal infection, and they’re especially common in pregnant women. These infections – also called monilial vaginitis or vaginal candidiasis – are caused by microscopic fungi in the Candida family, most often Candida albicans. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments.

Is It Safe To Use Over

Yes, but always talk with your doctor or nurse before treating yourself for a vaginal yeast infection. This is because:

• You may be trying to treat an infection that is not a yeast infection. Studies show that two out of three women who buy yeast infection medicine dont really have a yeast infection.2 Instead, they may have an STI or bacterial vaginosis . STIs and BV require different treatments than yeast infections and, if left untreated, can cause serious health problems.
• Using treatment when you do not actually have a yeast infection can cause your body to become resistant to the yeast infection medicine. This can make actual yeast infections harder to treat in the future.
• Some yeast infection medicine may weaken condoms and diaphragms, increasing your chance of getting pregnant or an STI when you have sex. Talk to your doctor or nurse about what is best for you, and always read and follow the directions on the medicine carefully.

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How Is A Yeast Infection Diagnosed

After receiving a physical exam and reviewing signs and symptoms with your physician, the diagnosis will be confirmed or denied through a sample of vaginal discharge. Your doctor will check the sample for yeasts that cause infections, and more harmful types of yeast infections will also be ruled out during this time.

Q: What Steps Can Reduce The Risk Of Yeast Infection

A:During pregnancy and otherwise, take the following precautions:

• Wipe front to back after using the toilet.
• Avoid using scented tampons, pads, and pantyliners.
• Change tampons, pads, and pantyliners often.
• Avoid very hot baths and hot tubs.
• Wear underwear with a cotton lining to promote airflow.
• Wear loose fitting clothing.
• Manage your blood sugar if you have diabetes or gestational diabetes.
• Remove wet workout clothes and swimsuits as soon as possible after activities.

If youre pregnant and notice signs of a yeast infection, discuss treatment options with your doctor so you can eliminate these disruptive symptoms. To request an appointment, call orrequest online.

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What Can I Do To Prevent Vaginal Thrush

There are a number of simple things you can do:

• Wear cotton or silk underwear rather than synthetics and change daily. Wear tights or stockings for as short a time as possible.
• Wash underwear in hot water and pure soap and double rinse to make sure any irritants are removed before you wear them.
• Change out of damp swimming costumes or sports clothes as soon as possible after swimming or exercise.
• If using pads, change them regularly and avoid perfumed or deodorised pads.
• Avoid tight fitting clothes such as jeans as this creates a moist, warm environment that encourages the overgrowth of bacteria and yeasts.
• A gentle moisturiser like aqueous cream may be advised. Use water or soap substitutes to wash the area.

Yeast Infections In Pregnancy: Recommended Treatments

Michael Postelnick, BPharm

Which treatment options for vaginal yeast infections are safe and effective in the pregnant patient?

Vaginal candidiasis, commonly called “yeast infection,” is relatively common during pregnancy, with an estimated prevalence of 10%-75%. The patient usually presents with vulvar pruritus, burning, soreness, and irritation, with occasional dysuria.

Pregnancy causes increased levels of progesterone and estrogen. Progesterone suppresses the ability of neutrophils to combat Candida, and estrogen disrupts the integrity of vaginal epithelial cells against such pathogens as Candida and decreases immunoglobulins in vaginal secretions. These issues, which continue throughout pregnancy, lend themselves to multiple recurrences of infection.

Treatment is directed at symptom relief. Topical imidazoles are most commonly recommended. Although both miconazole and clotrimazole are available without a prescription, pregnant patients should never self-medicate and should only use these products under the direction of a healthcare provider.

Data in pregnancy for other topical antifungal agents are limited, making miconazole and clotrimazole the preferred topical agents in pregnancy.

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What Is The Safest Way To Deal With A Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

To treat a yeast infection, pregnant women should refrain from oral treatment methods and instead make use of creams, ointments, and other topically used medicines. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, during pregnancy, women should use azole topically for seven consecutive days to treat a yeast infection. This method has been accepted as safe by the CDC.

Topically used azole are available over the counter without any need for a doctors prescription letter, and studies regarding their efficacy also back them. According to the College of Family Physicians of Canadas one study, a milder version of corticosteroids can be applied topically to relieve the symptoms of a yeast infection. They are considered safe to use while pregnant however, they need to be used only for a short period.

As per one study on the other hand, the use of the prescribed medicine oral Fluconazole is to be avoided by pregnant women as it has been seen to cause spontaneous abortion in those who were exposed to it. The study talked about how pregnant women that took Fluconazole were 48 percent more likely to face pregnancy-related complications like a miscarriage than those who did not take it.

Before taking any type of treatment, it is always a good idea to consult a doctor treating a yeast infection is important. If it is left untreated, it can even be transmitted to the baby through the mother during the delivery process. This is known as thrush.

How Are Yeast Infections Treated During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, physicians recommend vaginal creams and suppositories only. The oral medication, Diflucan , has not been proven safe during pregnancy and lactation. Not all vaginal creams and suppositories are okay to use during pregnancy, so it is best to consult your doctor or pharmacist to get the right one. If left untreated, yeast infections can pass to your babys mouth during delivery. This is called thrush and is effectively treated with Nystatin.It may take 10-14 days to find relief or completely clear up the infection while you are pregnant. After the infection has cleared up and any sores have healed, it may be helpful to use a starch-free drying powder, or Nystatin powder to prevent a recurring infection.

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