Yeast infection during pregnancy is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the vagina, itchiness and some discharge. Also, known as candidiasis, this condition is fairly common. Approximately 3 out of 4 women suffer from yeast infection at some point in their life.
Simple treatment is effective, unless you are having recurrent infections.
Causes Of Yeast Infections While Pregnant
The infection is caused by the fungus candida. Candida is a microbe which is normally present in the vagina, along with bacteria. The vagina has a well-balanced blend of yeast and bacteria. The lactobacillus bacteria manufacture acid that averts the overgrowth of yeast in the vagina. If however, the healthy balance gets disrupted, it results in a yeast overgrowth. Overgrowth of yeast occurs due to:
- Yeast infection is frequently seen during pregnancy.
- Antibiotics which leads to reduction in the lactobacillus bacteria in your vagina as well as an alteration in the vaginal pH.
- Uncontrolled diabetes.
- Depressed immune mechanism.
Usually, yeast infection is caused by Candida albicans.
Symptoms Of Yeast Infection
Yeast infection symptoms include:
- Severe itching and irritation in the vagina.
- Burning, more so while urinating or intercourse.
- Inflammation and swelling of the vagina and vulva.
- White, thick, odor-free discharge.
- Redness
- Pain and soreness
Natural Remedies For Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
Yeast infection can be treated with simple home remedies; although, you may want to confer with your health care provider or gynecologist / obstetrician. For recurrent infections, you may need a medication routine to keep the yeast overgrowth in control.
- Boric acid: A suppository is available by prescription is an alternative to conventional treatment. It has found to be effective against the less common strains of candida as well as for candida which has become resistant to the azole drugs. On the other hand, do remember that boric acid irritates the skin and is toxic if ingested, so it is very essential that you consult your gynecologist.
- Yogurt: Is an excellent remedy – either taken orally or applied to the vagina. A few clinical trials and researches have corroborated this therapy.
- Pro-biotics: Pro-biotic medications contain lactobacillus, which helps deal with candidiasis successfully. They re-instate the bacterial colonies and keep the yeast is control. Talk to your health care provider and start a supplement.
- Tea tree essential oil: The tea tree essential oil is a natural remedy for yeast infection. This essential oil is a potent anti-fungal that gets rid of the infection really quickly.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C boosts your immune and defense mechanisms and battles the yeast infections. Have loads of limes, lemons, oranges, bell peppers and guavas; or you could take a vitamin C supplement as well.
- If these treatments fail to work in 3 to 4 days, it is vital that you start anti-fungal treatment – your doctor will prescribe a cream or a suppository, and occasionally he may administer an oral anti-fungal too.
However, do remember that before embarking up on any alternative therapy, discuss with your doctor to understand what is good for you during pregnancy.