Pregnancy Complications: Yeast Infections

The Pregnancy HelpDesk

Yeast Infections:

A yeast infection is a vaginal infection that occurs due to overgrowth of bacteria. Yeast infections are more common with pregnant women than non-pregnant women due to increased hormone levels and they are more difficult to treat during pregnancy. Pregnant women may have more yeast infections during the third trimester.

Signs of a Yeast Infection:

Itching

Burning

Thick, white discharge (may resemble cottage cheese)

May have redness and/or pain at the opening of the vagina or on the labia.

What causes a yeast infection?

Some antibiotics increase the chance for getting yeast infections.

Women with diabetes have an increased risk of yeast infections

Tight jeans, panty hose, underwear that are not made of cotton, and wet swimsuits.

Douching

Wiping from back to front after urinating or having a bowel movement.

How can I prevent yeast infections?

Wear cotton underwear

Eat yogurt and sour cream, and drink buttermilk

Avoid too much sugar

Dry the vaginal area thoroughly after taking a bath or swimming

Avoid tight fitting clothes

Wipe from front to back (away from vagina) after urinating or having a bowel movement

Avoid douching

Avoid sexual intercourse during the treatment of a yeast infection

Is a yeast infection dangerous during pregnancy?

The yeast infection itself does not present any danger to the baby during pregnancy. If you have a yeast infection during the time of labor, the baby may get thrush. Thrush is a mouth infection and is often treated with nystatin in newborns.

Treatment for a Yeast Infection during Pregnancy:

Always consult your doctor if you have a yeast infection. It is best to try and avoid a yeast infection rather than get the yeast infection and then treat it.

Other Resources:

Monistat Answer Line 1-800-582-6097 (Mon-Fri 8:00-5:00p.m. EST)

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