Causes of Yeast Infection During Pregnancy
A large percentage of women will find themselves combating yeast infection at some point during their lives. It's nothing to be ashamed of and is simply a sign of an imbalance of yeast within the body, something that is already there naturally.
A yeast infection is usually accompanied by a weakened immune system. Unfortunately this is especially prevalent during pregnancy. The body weakens its own immune system in order to give the developing fetus unfettered growth within the womb. This is an open invitation for yeast overproduction.
Yet another reason why pregnant women may be more susceptible to yeast infection is the body's hormones during this fantastic time are all over the place. The body will struggle to control many of its essential levels. The pH level is another that may be impacted by uncontrollable hormonal levels and a weakened immune system.
Monilial vaginitis, or vaginal yeast infection is caused by microscopic organisms called Candida albicans, which is a yeast but can also morph into a fungi. As mentioned previously this occurs naturally within our bodies and it is the uncontrolled growth of this organism which is what we know as a yeast infection.
Candida albicans thrives on a diet of glycogen. Unfortunately during pregnancy oestrogen is particularly prevalent and it is this oestrogen which is directly responsible for the production of glycogen in the vagina. This is another reason why pregnant women are more susceptible to infection.
Because of a weakened immune system many women pick up minor illnesses during pregnancy and are then prescribed pregnancy antibiotics. These antibiotics may well eradicate the good bacteria in the body as well as the bad. The good bacteria help to control the spread of Candida albicans.
Symptoms of Yeast Infection During Pregnancy
The symptoms of a yeast infection during pregnancy are very much the same as any other time in a woman's life. These symptoms may include
- irritation of the local area
- an insistent itch
- redness of the local area
- a burning sensation during urination
- vaginal discharge, this may either be clear or yellow in colour, in more severe cases this may include a more textured discharge something like cottage cheese
Although the symptoms presented above don't appear to be serious have no doubt that they deeply impact on the lives of those that have to suffer through it.
If you are pregnant and suspect that you have a yeast infection, or indeed any infection, please go and seek expert advice as soon as you are able.
Your baby and a Yeast Infection
There is no evidence to suggest that a mother's yeast infection impacts on fetal development.
However the infection may be passed along and present itself in the form of an oral infection or it may show up as diaper rash.
Again, rest assured that development of the baby will not be impeded.
It is obviously very important to treat any infection as soon as possible to stop it from becoming a major concern. Seek specialist advice from your gynaecologist if available.
Yeast Infection Treatment During Pregnancy
So how can we go about treating a yeast infection during pregnancy. Or stop it from occuring in the first place.
Be wary of choosing over-the-counter medication yourself to treat a yeast infection. There may well be medication specifically available for pregnant women so be especially mindful to mention to your pharmacist that you are pregnant and ask for his advice. You can also ask him to confirm the validity of any recommendations from friends and family.
Be especially careful of oral medication as anything ingested may be passed to your baby. Avoid these if at all possible.
Try to wear loosefitting clothing that consists of natural fibres. This aids circulation and also helps air to move freely thus keeping the area dry.
Yeast grows the best in darkened moist warm conditions. To combat or prevent an infection personal hygiene standards must be very high. After using the lavatory try using a wipe preprepared with a little cider vinegar on it.
Sugar and simple carbohydrates are super foods to yeast. So avoid them if at all possible.
A holistic approach is one that cures using natural techniques and advises on lifestyle changes necessary to not only stop yeast infections but prevent them from reappearing. It can help get to the root cause of the infection and remove it.
There are many other natural cures for an infection on this site. Take a good look around and you'll find many that rely on wholesome ingredients.
However because your baby is involved in this process you must even seek guidance before undertaking this approach.
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