As a result, yeast infections are considered one of the most common infections experienced by women. Unfortunately, the risk of contracting a yeast infection during pregnancy is even higher than normal. Although there is no evidence to suggest this uncomfortable condition will harm your baby, itching and burning that come with a yeast infection can still cause significant distress.
To help you avoid and manage bouts of vaginal thrush, we have put together a guide to answer your most pressing questions.
Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called candida. This fungus or yeast occurs naturally in the vagina. When in balance with other beneficial bacteria and fungi, candida does not cause any problems. However, when the vagina’s delicate balance is disrupted, this yeast is left to grow rapidly, causing a yeast infection. This is usually due to the population of bacteria responsible for keeping its growth in check being reduced. There are a number of factors that can contribute to you developing a yeast infection, including antibiotic use.
When you are pregnant, however, the increased risk of contracting vaginal thrush is generally down to bodily and hormonal changes, particularly the increase in oestrogen. Another contributing factor is the pH of your vagina itself. During pregnancy the pH in your vagina changes to become more alkaline and less acidic. This essentially makes the vaginal cells more sugary, turning them into food for the yeast and promoting its growth.
Women can also experience increased amounts of discharge during pregnancy, creating a permanently moist environment perfect for yeast growth. These conditions can cause dormant yeast cells in the vagina to multiply and cause an infection. If you are struggling with recurring yeast infections speak to your doctor or pharmacist about Canex V for relief from uncomfortable vaginal thrush symptoms.
The signs of a yeast infection during pregnancy are similar to those when not pregnant. They include:
If you are pregnant, it is important that you always seek medical advice before taking any medication.
Usually, your doctor will prescribe some kind of antifungal. These are most commonly in the form of a cream, like Canex V which can be bought over the counter and is available at most leading pharmacies. Antifungals are also available in tablet form, but like the creams, these are inserted into the vagina to treat the problem at the site. These contain antifungal ingredients like clotrimazole which works by stopping the growth of the fungi that causes the infection. Antifungal creams can be applied both internally and to the skin around the outside of the vagina to provide relief to the whole area.
Although thrush during pregnancy is very common, there are some simple steps you can take to try and avoid developing an infection in the first place. These steps may not stop an infection every time, but they will help lower the risk.
Yeast thrives in moist, warm areas. Wearing breathable underwear that isn’t too tight can help balance the moisture created by increased discharge. The same idea can be applied to the pants you wear. Try sticking to loose cotton pants rather than tight jeans or active wear.
Scented soaps and bubble baths may make you feel better, but the chemicals used to make them can cause irritation in your vagina and upset the balance of bacteria.
Processed foods, sugary foods, and bread can all contribute to vaginal thrush. Try avoiding or only eating moderate amounts of these foods. On the other side of the coin, probiotic-rich foods like natural yogurt can help add beneficial bacteria back into your system.
Vaginal thrush is a common and uncomfortable infection for women of all ages, especially women who are pregnant. Changes to your hormones, body, and routine may all contribute to an increased risk of infection. Thankfully, although uncomfortable, yeast infections pose very little serious health risk to you or your baby if treated correctly under the guidance of a doctor and can be avoided with a few simple lifestyle changes.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about Canex V today.
