FAQ

What is a yeast infection?
Yeast infections are a common type of vaginal infection that are even more common in pregnant women. These infections — also called monilial vaginitis or vaginal candidiasis — are caused by microscopic fungi in the Candida family, most commonly Candida albicans.
It's not uncommon to have a certain amount of yeast in your vagina, as well as in your intestinal tract. Yeast only becomes a problem when it grows so fast that it overwhelms other competing microorganisms.
Your higher level of estrogen during pregnancy causes your vagina to produce more glycogen, making it even easier for yeast to grow there.

What should I do if I think I have a yeast infection?

If you think you have a yeast infection, see your practitioner. Your symptoms may be caused by something else, such as a sexually transmitted infection, instead of or along with yeast.
Studies show that the majority of women who treat themselves for a presumed yeast infection miss the real cause. As a result, they often delay getting proper treatment.
If you do have a yeast infection, your practitioner will give you a prescription or recommend a specific over-the-counter antifungal vaginal cream or suppository that's safe during pregnancy. (Note: Oral antifungal drugs should not be taken during pregnancy to treat vaginal yeast infections).

Is Pregnancy Possible with a Yeast Infection?

Yeast infections cannot harm your chances of getting pregnant. There are some people that say if you have the infection for a long period of time without it being treated it can cause problems, but this is extremely rare and highly unlikely.
Is It Common During Pregnancy for a Yeast Infection?
It is said that 20% of woman will get a yeast infection during pregnancy because of increase in hormones and bacteria.

What Are The Symptoms?
The symptoms of a pregnancy yeast infection generally build up over 1 to 3 days, and include an intense vaginal itch, irritation, soreness, burning and redness in the vagina, and a thick, white vaginal discharge. If you have any or all of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek further advice and guidance from your local physician. Don't leave it unchecked.

How Do You Treat a Pregnancy Yeast Infection?
Yeast infections may be harder to control when you're pregnant. They may require frequent treatment or longer treatment (10 to 14 days instead of 3 to 7 days).
Vaginal creams or suppositories used for treatment are safe during pregnancy, although most physicians recommend avoiding treatment during the first trimester. If you develop a yeast infection, it is safe for you to use over-the-counter products, such as Monistat. If you don't have success with over-the-counter medication, you may want to try Boric acid, which is very mild. It won't harm you but will alter the vaginas pH level slightly discouraging yeast growth. Probiotics are also useful in combating pregnancy yeast infections since they build up your healthy bacteria.