Fungal Infections During Pregnancy

By Aric Furtodo

What is a fungal disease?

Fungal infection (yeast infection) - this is a common type of vaginal infections. They are very common in pregnant women. The causative agent of these infections, also called vaginal candidiasis, is a microscopic fungus genus Candida, usually Candida albicans.

A number of fungi (yeast) naturally present in the vagina and the gastrointestinal tract. Fungi become a problem when they begin to multiply so quickly that their number to inhibit other microorganisms.

Because of the increased level of estrogen during pregnancy in the vagina to produce more glycogen, which promotes the proliferation of fungi. According to some experts, estrogen may exert a direct effect on the fungus, so that they grow quickly and easily, stick to the walls of the vagina.

Risk of yeast infection is increased by using antibiotics, especially if you take them frequently or for long periods. This is due to the fact that antibiotics not only kill the harmful bacteria but also the good bug as well.

What are the symptoms of fungal disease?

If you have symptoms of a fungal (yeast) infection, they will bother you (and worse) until you are cured. However, sometimes the symptoms go away.

The main symptoms include:

-itching, irritation, pain, burning, redness (sometimes swelling) and vaginal labia,

-white or cream cheesy vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor,

-discomfort or pain during sex

-burning sensation during urinating (when the urine reaches the inflamed areas of the genitals).

What To Do If You Suspect A Fungal Infection?

If you suspect an infection contact your doctor. Keep in mind that, despite the availability of antifungal drugs, do not self-medicate without consulting your doctor. The cause of the symptoms may not only be a yeast (fungal) infection, but it may be sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They can develop on their own or simultaneously with fungal infection.

Treatment

If you have a fungal (yeast) infection, the doctor will prescribe a prescription such as an anti-fungal vaginal creams or medicines that are safe for pregnant women. Oral antifungal medications to treat vaginal yeast infections are contraindicated in pregnancy.

The cream or suppository inserted into the vagina for seven consecutive days, preferably at bedtime. (Short courses of treatment to which you may have to resort earlier, may not be effective during pregnancy). You can also put the cream on the outer parts of the vagina.

After several days of treatment you will feel better. At this time, you can reduce the discomfort and itching if you apply ice or lie down for ten minutes in a cool bath.

If you do not like the treatment or it does not bring positive results, tell your doctor. He may prescribe a different drug.

How To Reduce The Risk Of Fungal Infection?

Infections can be avoided by making sure that the genital area is always dry (yeast thrive in heat and humidity), and vaginal flora - are normal. The following rules are simple to follow, and can help you to reduce the risk of fungal infection?

Wear breathable cotton underwear, do not wear tight pants, synthetic.

Remove wet bathing suit after swimming, change clothes after exercise, especially if you sweat.

If possible, sleep without underwear. You can wear a nightgown. It is better than pajamas.

Avoid bubble baths, scented soaps, perfumed sprays and cleaning products for personal hygiene. They not only contribute to the development of infection, they can also cause irritation of the genitals.

Wash your genital area with warm water.

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