Thrush During Pregnancy: Everything you need to know

While expecting, the last thing you need is an itchy vaginal thrush infection because there is already a lot going on down there. An increased risk of various diseases, such as thrush and bacterial vaginosis (BV), exists in pregnant women. In addition, pregnant women frequently experience yeast infections, particularly in the second and third trimesters.

Unfortunately, thrush infections are the most prevalent vaginal infection during pregnancy. Women are more prone to thrush issues during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester. The higher estrogen levels circulating in a pregnant woman’s body are at least partially to blame for the increased risk during pregnancy.

What causes thrush during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, your vagina produces more glycogen, which increases the ease with which yeast can thrive there. According to some experts, estrogen may also directly affect yeast, allowing it to grow more quickly and adhere to vaginal walls more readily.

Also, you’re more likely to have a yeast infection when pregnant for the reasons below:

Douching: 

Rinsing the vagina with water or other liquids can change the pH and bacteria balance inside the vagina, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast.

Hormone Level Changes: 

The fluctuation of hormones in the female body can also change the environment in the vagina, leading to infection.

Antibiotics: 

Taking antibiotics can also disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina and lead to the overgrowth of yeast.

Vaginal Intercourse: 

Engaging in vaginal intercourse can introduce new bacteria into the vagina and disrupt the balance.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: 

The hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can also lead to the overgrowth of bacteria or yeast.

What are the symptoms of pregnancy thrush? 

Vaginal infections may not always be evident from their symptoms. However, if symptoms do appear, they may include the following:

• Vaginal itching or burning sensations
• Soreness or discomfort in the vaginal area
• Swelling, redness, or inflammation around the vagina and vulva
• A change in the amount or appearance of vaginal discharge
• Pain or burning while urinating
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting 

How can you avoid thrush during pregnancy?

Thrush is more common in pregnant women. But there are many things you may do to lessen the likelihood of thrush occurring:

• Avoid wearing tight pants and panties, especially synthetic ones, and choose breathable cotton undergarments instead.
• When you urinate or have a bowel movement, wipe from front to back. Stopping the transfer of germs from your back passage will help maintain the balance of organisms on and around your vagina.
• After working out, switch your underwear. Changing your underwear after a sweat session can help prevent an overgrowth of thrush by preventing the region around your vagina from being too warm and moist.
• Avoid using deodorants, bath bombs, or fragrant shower gels to excessively bathe your genitalia. The natural amounts of organisms living in or on your body can change due to excessive washing with harsh chemicals.
• Make sure your blood sugar levels are under control if you have diabetes. Some of the sugar in your blood will filter through to your urine if you have high blood sugar. Some of the sugar from your urine will remain on the skin around and inside of your vagina, which could promote the growth of thrush.

Although having a yeast infection is unpleasant, knowing that you or your infant are not in danger is comforting. Yet, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that while you’re pregnant, some diseases can be more than just annoying. 

Can you treat thrush during pregnancy?

While you are pregnant, you should always visit your doctor before beginning thrush therapy. They can guide you through the thrush treatment process and ensure you have no other conditions that could endanger you or your unborn child.

Your doctor may recommend antifungal thrush treatments if they believe they will help treat your infection and symptoms. If you follow the instructions and a doctor approves them, these therapies are often safe for you and your unborn child.

FAQs:

Does thrush during pregnancy affect my unborn baby?

There is no proof that having thrush while pregnant might harm the unborn child. Even if you contract a thrush infection while pregnant, you can rest easy knowing your child is secure.

Does thrush affect breastfeeding?

Thrush can spread to the skin at and around the nipples. If you develop thrush in this location, breastfeeding may cause significant pain in both nipples. Once your baby has eaten, this soreness may last for as long as an hour.

In addition, when you nurse your child, thrush on your nipples might spread to the infant. If you have thrush, don’t stop nursing because thrush is typically not harmful and is simple to treat in both moms and newborns.