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Vaginal yeast infections are the result of candida albicans. This fungus occurs naturally in the vagina. It is only when the yeast starts to gain the balance of power that an infection occurs. Vaginal yeast infection is also known in medical terms as monilial vaginitis or vaginal candidiasis. Pregnancy and candida go hand in hand. Certain functions of pregnancy add to a positive environment for candida albicans. Hormonal changes in the body may change the vaginal environment enough that the yeast growth gets out of hand causing an infection. In preparation for birth, the body will load up on glucose to assist in the gestation. The body stores the glucose in glycogen which is a major food source for candida albicans. In addition to multiplying the number of yeast cells, those same yeast cells could adhere tighter to the walls of the vagina. Another major cause of candida overgrowth is the use of antibiotics. In particular long term use of antibiotics will upset the balance in the body. The antibiotics destroy good bacteria as well as bad bacteria. Without the good bacteria controlling the rate of yeast production, it will get out of hand ending in an infection. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include being itchy in the crotch area. It can cause a burning sensation. The irritation in the genital area can cause redness and soreness. Frequently there is an odourless discharge from the vaginal area. This white discharge has the consistency of cottage cheese. Should you notice these conditions, it is best to refrain from sexual relations. The yeast infection can be passed on to partners; in addition the irritation in the area may make sex uncomfortable. Yeast infections in pregnant women can be treated identically as in non-pregnant women a large majority of the time. If this is a first time, then you should seek help from your doctor to determine the best medications or treatments for your particular situation. Doctors will recommend anything from over-the-counter creams to special treatments relating to the pregnancy. A baby developing in the womb is safe and is not affected by the yeast infection. Given the changes to a woman’s body during pregnancy, it is not surprising that women have a good chance of contracting a yeast infection. Avoiding yeast infections during pregnancy can be hard, sometimes even impossible, but there are effective treatments. Free 5 part ezine that will answer a lot of your questions. Free for the asking. Click here.
Alys G. Parant
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