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Yeast Infections
Pregnant women are more likely to get a seat on the subway, sympathetic smiles from strangers - and yeast infections. If you've noticed itchiness, irritation, soreness, and burning in your vagina and labia, an odorless, white cheesy vaginal discharge, or pain during sex, or burning when you urinate, a yeast infection in pregnancy may well be the culprit.
Microscopic fungi from the Candida family are to blame for yeast infections in pregnancy. The fungus is found in the vaginas of almost one-third of all women (and in male and female intestinal tracts), but becomes a problem when it grows so fast it overwhelms the other resident microorganisms. When you're pregnant, your estrogen level goes up, leading your vagina to produce more glycogen. Candida loves glycogen. Result? Monilial vaginitis, vaginal candidiasis, or, in plain English, yeast infections.
The good news is you're the only one bothered by yeast infections in pregnancy. It won't hurt your growing baby. But if you have an infection when you go into labor, the baby could contract it while passing through the birth canal. In babies, yeast infections show up as white patches in the mouth called thrush. Again, don't panic. Thrush isn't serious and is easily treated.
But even though they're not serious, yeast infections in pregnancy are unpleasant and should be treated. Your medical practitioner will take a sample of the discharge to confirm the diagnosis. Once you know that candida is the culprit, you'll probably get a prescription or a recommendation for an over-the-counter antifungal cream or suppository that's safe for pregnant women. Insert it into your vagina seven nights in a row before bedtime. It should start working within a few days.
Because women are more susceptible to yeast infections in pregnancy, it's a good idea to take preventive measures. Keep the genital area dry. In addition to glycogen, candida loves warm, humid conditions. So wear cotton panties and avoid pantyhose and tight pants. When you go swimming, change out of your wet suit quickly before you sit down to relax. Avoid bubble baths and long soaks in the tub. Try sleeping without underwear to allow air to get to your vaginal area. And eat yogurt with live cultures - it's a great source of protein and calcium, and the cultures help maintain a healthy vaginal climate.
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