Signs and Symptoms of Yeast Infections in Late Pregnancy

A yeast infection is not a normal ailment during pregnancy; if you have never had one pre-pregnancy you will most likely not have one during pregnancy. Some women are prone to yeast infections and get them on a regular basis, most are able to recognize the symptoms, grab an over-the-counter remedy and take care of it at home. During pregnancy though you cannot self medicate for a yeast infection. Learn how to discuss the symptoms you experience, and how they must be treated.

Misconceptions

• All through pregnancy a thin, milky, sometimes smelly, discharge is normal. It is called leucorrhea and is similar to the discharge women have prior to menstruation. Later in pregnancy this discharge can become very heavy similar to that of a yeast infection and to avoid misdiagnosing yourself it is important to ask your obstetrician about any discharge you may be experiencing.

Identification

• Most common symptoms of a yeast infection during pregnancy include a yellowish or greenish discharge that is thick and sometimes looks like cottage cheese, a foul odor, burning, itching, redness, and soreness. If you experience any of these symptoms call your obstetrician's office and let them make a final determination.

Types

• A yeast infection during pregnancy is simply treated by the use of prescription suppositories, creams, gels, ointments, or a combination of these medications. Even after successfully treating a yeast infection it can return and have to be retreated throughout the pregnancy. It is important that a woman does not have an active yeast infection at the time of delivery because it can be passed on to the baby in the birth canal. A more stubborn infection may require a prescription for oral medication.

Prevention/Solution

• During pregnancy there are steps women can take to avoid a yeast infection and to lessen the chances of one recurring. It is important to keep clean and dry by practicing meticulous hygiene during pregnancy. Taking care to clean well after using the restroom (wiping from front to back), making sure to rinse all soap off while taking a bath or shower, avoiding bubble baths and perfumes, wearing cotton underwear, and wearing loose fitting pants made out of cotton whenever possible. Eating a cup of yogurt a day can also reduce chances for yeast infections.

Considerations

• During or after an infection do not try to clean out the birth canal by douching. Douching can be very dangerous during pregnancy and is not recommended or needed. Avoid intercourse during an active yeast infection and if you are having reoccurring yeast infections consider using condoms or abstaining for the remainder of the pregnancy. Under normal circumstances yeast infections are very successfully treated at home, however, when pregnant it is very important to allow your obstetrician to do their job, which is to ensure you have the healthiest pregnancy, birth, and baby as possible. Always call your doctor regarding any discharge or yeast infection like symptoms. During pregnancy the body is going through so many changes and you don't want to take any unnecessary medication especially for a condition you may not have.