Yeast
Infection Symptoms And Pregnancy: The Information You Need To
Know
You may already know that a yeast infection
is primarily caused by an imbalance between the
micro-organisms such as candida (yeast) that occur
naturally in the body and the bodies natural acidity
levels. It should be no surprise then with all the
hormonal fluctuations, yeast infection symptoms during
pregnancy can become distressingly common, especially in
the second trimester of pregnancy.
The human body goes through powerful and
striking biochemical changes associated with pregnancy, during
which very often your pH levels (level of acidity) can get out
of sync resulting in a bountiful growth of yeast cells, usually
leading to yeast infection symptoms during pregnancy that tend
to occur more commonly.
What Symptoms Should You Look Out
For?
Usually, one of the first yeast infection
symptoms during pregnancy women will recognise is a whitish,
often odd smelling discharge. Sometimes it will have a
yellowish or greenish tinge, and may have consistency similar
to that of cottage cheese. The most annoying yeast infection
symptoms during pregnancy or otherwise can also
include:
-
Itching and
irritation of the infected area. Since candida grows
best in moist and dark conditions, the genital area is
most commonly infected.
-
A reddening of the
infected area
-
A burning sensation
during urination and darker urine
-
Painful sexual
intercourse or discomfort
What Steps Should You Take?
It is essential, if you are experiencing any
of the yeast infection symptoms during pregnancy to see your
regular doctor. It is certainly the safest path of action.
There are of course oral systemic treatments for yeast
infection and its symptoms, pregnancy however, complicates
matters. It has not been proven that systemic treatments are
safe for either the baby or the mother during pregnancy and
even while breastfeeding. Hence, it is most likely that your
doctor will prescribe a cream or ointment with anti fungal
properties for topical application to the affected
area.
Usually it is suggested that you apply a
small amount of the ointment or cream to the affected area for
as long as symptoms remain. Yeast infection symptoms during
pregnancy can last between a few days and many weeks.
Persistent symptoms, or increased discomfort and irritation
caused by using the medication should prompt you to stop using
the medication and consult your doctor.
Over The Counter Medication: Should You Take
These During Pregnancy?
Yeast infection medications have been
available over the counter without a doctor's prescription for
many years now. So, if you are suffering from yeast infection
symptoms during pregnancy it is very possible to obtain anti
fungal creams and ointments without a prescription. Indeed,
there are some who would suggest using homoeopathic remedies,
herbal and natural cures as opposed to medical drugs. Such
natural remedies are generally safe to use and should be
considered when suffering from yeast infection symptoms during
pregnancy. However, it should be noted, if your symptoms
persist or worsen, after a period of one week you should
certainly visit your normal doctor for further
advice.
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