Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

Yeast infection is commonly a vaginal infection which occurs when bacteria naturally present in the vagina called yeast begins to multiply and cause fungal infection termed as Candida albicans. But vagina is not the only area of the body where these fungi get accumulated. Other parts which could possibly get infected with yeast infection include the tongue, mouth, under arms, lower abdomen, areas under the breasts, and nails. These fungi usually affect moist and warm parts of the body which usually get sweaty.

Women are more vulnerable to yeast infection or candidiasis during pregnanacy than at any other time. During pregnancy, women undergo several hormonal changes which alter the vaginal environment. This in turn increases the possibility of overgrowth of yeast or fungi present in the vagina, which could hence cause yeast infection. This is why it is imperative for women to stay conscious of even the slightest symptoms in order to get the infection treated without harming the baby.

Although the infection itself does not harm the baby but its treatment or cure possibly could. This is because many medicines or products that might be used for curing yeast infection during pregnancy might react and cause harm to the baby. So it is recommended that natural or herbal remedies be used for treating candidiasis during pregnancy. Also, though yeast infection might not affect the baby during pregnancy, but there is always a chance that the mother’s infection might be passed on to the baby’s mouth during delivery.

Symptoms of yeast infection include heavy, white discharge, pain and burning while urinating, itching and irritation around the vaginal area. All these symptoms could cause considerable amount of discomfort to any pregnant woman. Treating the infection through natural remedies is the only way to seek relief from constant pain and discomfort. Among several home remedies, one of the most recommended is the use of yoghurt or curd everyday. Youghurt helps to eliminate the imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. Also there are good bateria present in youghurt which readily replace the harful ones. Another effective and much used remedy is eating garlic. Garlic again creates a balanced vaginal environment and helps to prevent and cure yeast infection. All such natural remedies are not only more effective than scientific medication but are also more long-lasting in their effects.

It is very important to get yourself diagnosed and examined if you have experienced any of the symptoms. This is a significant point in view of the fact that many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Trichomoniasis have the same symptoms as that of yeast infection. These diseases could prove to be very harmful during pregnancy so getting yourself diagnosed should be a priority.

Also women should avoid wearing tight panties during pregnancy as it aggravates yeast infection. Moreover cotton clothes and panties should be preffered over silk and satin ones as this will help to let the body breathe, and hence eliminate chances of a possible yeast infection.