Treatment FAQ

treatment for yeast infection when pregnant

by Dr. Jed Wolf IV Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Treating a Yeast Infection During Pregnancy
It's safe to treat a yeast infection with over-the-counter (OTC) vaginal creams or suppositories that contain miconazole or clotrimazole. Don't take an oral fluconazole tablet to treat a yeast infection during pregnancy. It may cause birth defects.
Oct 19, 2020

How do you treat a yeast infection during pregnancy?

  • Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid pantyhose and tight pants, especially synthetic ones.
  • Try sleeping without underwear at night to allow air to get to your genital area. ...
  • Don't use bubble baths, perfumed soaps, scented laundry detergent, or feminine hygiene sprays. ...
  • Clean your genital area gently with warm water every day. ...

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How to reduce yeast infection during pregnancy?

  • Wear clothes and undergarments made of natural, breathable fabrics that don’t trap moisture close to your skin.
  • Always shower and dry off completely after a workout or time spent outdoors.
  • Wash and dry any bras or other tops you wear close to your skin during an active yeast infection. ...

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Is it safe to use yeast infection treatment while pregnant?

Treating a Yeast Infection During Pregnancy It's safe to treat a yeast infection with over-the-counter (OTC) vaginal creams or suppositories that contain miconazole or clotrimazole. Don’t take an...

Can you still get pregnant if you have yeast infection?

You could still get pregnant when you yourself have a yeast infection, however, some creams used to treat the infection may make it more difficult for the sperm to go to the egg. There is no evidence to claim that vaginal yeast-based infections cause any issues when trying to conceive; you can have a baby while you have a yeast infection.

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What can I use to cure a yeast infection while pregnant?

Yeast infections are especially common during pregnancy because hormone changes can disrupt the pH balance of the vagina....Over-the-counter medications for treating yeast infections — available as creams, ointments or suppositories — include:Clotrimazole (Mycelex, Lotrimin AF)Miconazole (Monistat 3)Terconazole.

Can yeast infection affect baby during pregnancy?

The good news: While uncomfortable for the mother-to-be, yeast infections don't affect your pregnancy or your growing baby, and safe treatment options are available.

What happens if a yeast infection goes untreated while pregnant?

Yeast infections rarely cause any complications for you or your baby. These common infections, particularly during the second and third trimesters, are easy to treat and tend to stay localized in one area. But an untreated yeast infection has the possibility of passing to your baby's mouth during labor and delivery.

What is the best yeast infection cream while pregnant?

For a yeast infection in pregnancy, treatment is generally an over-the-counter vaginal cream or suppositories. These might include Clotrimazole (Mycelex, Lotrimin AF); Miconazole (Monistat 3) or Terconazole. Oral medications such as fluconazole (Diflucan) are not recommended during pregnancy.

Can sperm cause yeast infections?

Vaginal Sex Your partner's natural genital chemistry can change the balance of yeast and bacteria in your vagina. In rare cases, you can have an allergic reaction to your partner's semen. Friction from sex, or certain types of lubricants, condoms, and sex toys may also cause irritation.

Can I use Monistat 1 while pregnant?

Official answer. Yes, you can use Monistat during pregnancy. Monistat is the brand name of the antifungal drug miconazole, which is commonly used to treat vaginal yeast infections.

Can a yeast infection go away on its own while pregnant?

If you develop symptoms from a yeast infection, they're likely to be bothersome (and may get worse) until you treat the infection, though sometimes they do come and go on their own.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?

The fastest — and most reliable — way to get rid of a yeast infection is to visit a doctor if you suspect you have one. They will likely prescribe fluconazole, an oral treatment that may take 1 week to get rid of the infection.

How do you sleep with a yeast infection?

Sleep commando. "I usually recommend that my patients with recurring yeast infections sleep commando style, with no underwear or pajama bottoms on, to let the area recieve more air flow," Dr. Brandye suggests.

Can I take Monistat 7 while pregnant?

For patients who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, recommend MONISTAT® 7 for vaginal yeast infection. MONISTAT® 7 meets CDC Guidelines for treating vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) in pregnant women.

Why is my private area itchy while pregnant?

During pregnancy, the vagina becomes engorged with blood, and your skin may feel stretched and more sensitive than usual. Products that you used comfortably before conceiving may now irritate your skin, causing it to itch and redden.

Can yeast cause miscarriage?

TUESDAY, Jan. 5, 2016 (HealthDay News) -- A well-known antifungal drug used for vaginal yeast infections may be linked to a slightly increased risk of miscarriage, according to a study of more than 1.4 million Danish pregnancies.

What is a yeast infection?

Yeast infection occurs when the normal levels of acid and yeast in the vagina are out of balance, which allows the yeast to overgrow causing an uncomfortable, but not serious, a condition called a yeast infection. If you have never been diagnosed or treated by a physician for a yeast infection and have some of the symptoms, you should see your physician first for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Why are yeast infections more common during pregnancy?

Your body is going through so many changes right now, and it is difficult for your body to keep up with the chemical changes in the vagina. There is more sugar in vaginal secretions on which the yeast can feed, causing an imbalance which results in too much yeast.

What are the symptoms of yeast infections?

The symptoms of a yeast infection may include one or more of the following:

What else could I be experiencing?

If you are experiencing symptoms similar to a yeast infection, but a physician has ruled this diagnosis out, you may have one of the following:

How do I know for sure if I have a yeast infection?

At your doctor’s office or medical clinic, a clinician will use a simple, painless swab to remove the discharge or vaginal secretions and examine it through a microscope. Usually, upon a simple examination of the vagina, a physician can diagnose a yeast infection. In rare cases, the culture may be sent to a lab.

How are yeast infections treated during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, physicians recommend vaginal creams and suppositories only. The oral medication, Diflucan (a single-dose medication), has not been proven safe during pregnancy and lactation. Not all vaginal creams and suppositories are okay to use during pregnancy, so it is best to consult your doctor or pharmacist to get the right one.

When should I contact my doctor?

If you are experiencing the symptoms described in this article, call your doctor now. Yeast infections have similar symptoms of other infections, such as STDs.

How to keep your vagina dry during pregnancy?

Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch to keep your vaginal area dry and let it "breathe.". Always wipe from front to back after you go to the bathroom. Don't douche. It can upset the balance in your vagina. In late pregnancy, it may also cause your water to break. Avoid tight pants and pantyhose.

Can you get a yeast infection from a vaginal partner?

If your sexual partner has a yeast infection, it can be passed to you during vaginal sex.

Can yeast overgrow during pregnancy?

This may let the yeast overgrow. Most yeast infections during pregnancy result from the fungus candida albicans. Two other kinds of yeast that can also cause them are candida glabrata and candida tropicalis. Yeast infections aren't pleasant, but they won't hurt you or your baby.

Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

As a woman, chances are you have experienced a yeast infection at one point in your life. Chances are, you may not be aware that pregnancy with a yeast infection is fairly common. University Park OBGYN is happy to share valuable tips about treating a yeast infection while pregnant.

What is a Yeast Infection?

The most common bacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus, help in keeping yeast and other organisms under control in the vagina. A yeast infection, also called candidiasis, occurs when healthy yeast in the vagina grows out of control. When our pH balance is disrupted, this overgrowth of yeast may lead to an infection and cause symptoms.

What Are Symptoms of a Yeast Infection?

Signs and symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can vary. Here are some things you may experience and get checked out by your provider:

How is a Yeast Infection Diagnosed?

After receiving a physical exam and reviewing signs and symptoms with your physician, the diagnosis will be confirmed or denied through a sample of vaginal discharge. Your doctor will check the sample for yeasts that cause infections, and more harmful types of yeast infections will also be ruled out during this time.

What Can Cause Yeast Infections During Pregnancy?

While pregnancy with a yeast infection is common, it is helpful to know what may cause it. Here are some factors that may contribute to an overgrowth of yeast leading to yeast infection early pregnancy:

Treating a Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

Pregnancy with yeast infection symptoms can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but you can safely treat these symptoms with over-the-counter vaginal creams and suppositories, such as miconazole or clotrimazole-containing products.

How To Prevent Yeast Infections

Consistently practicing good genital hygiene is the key to preventing vaginal yeast infections. Here are some ways to avoid yeast infection pregnancy symptoms:

How to prevent yeast infection during pregnancy?

To avoid developing a yeast infection, try to: 8 . Wear cotton underwear and avoid synthetic fabrics. Sleep without underwear to allow your genitals to air dry.

How to get rid of yeast infection naturally?

Natural Remedies. There are also natural remedies for preventing and dealing with yeast infections. 6  Eating yogurt with live active cultures can help your body fight off a yeast infection. 7 . Some practitioners even encourage you to put plain yogurt (with the cultures) into the vagina, as this has been shown to sometimes provide relief ...

How to tell if a baby has yeast infection?

Whereas yeast infection symptoms in babies may appear as: 1 White patches in their mouth that do not wipe off (called thrush) 3  2 Bright red diaper rash that doesn't go away (sometimes referred to as yeast diaper rash)

Why do women get yeast infections?

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a normal fungus. About one-third of all women normally carry this fungus in their vaginas, and both men and women carry it in their digestive tracts. 1 . During pregnancy—particularly in the second trimester —women become more susceptible to yeast problems.

Is yeast infection harmful?

While they're annoying and uncomfortable, yeast infections are not harmful to your health. Unlike with other types of infections, you generally wouldn't be prescribed antibiotics for a yeast infection (in fact, the use of antibiotics has been shown to lead to yeast infections in some women). A yeast infection will also not harm your baby, ...

Can you take yeast medicine while pregnant?

Treatment During Pregnancy. Even if you have had a yeast infection before, you should still contact your doctor as some common medications are not recommended for use during pregnancy. 4  Your provider will be able to tell you which medications are safe to use and make a recommendation.

What is the best medication for yeast infection during pregnancy?

Over-the-counter antifungal medications like miconazole (Monistat) or clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin) are safe and effective for treating yeast infections during pregnancy. Choose a 7-day formulation, such as Monistat 7, to ensure that the infection is completely eliminated.

How to get rid of yeast on genitals?

3. Blow-dry your genitals on a low, cool setting after showering. Blow-drying yourself can help reduce moisture and prevent the growth of yeast and bacteria on and around the vulva. Make sure to keep the airflow cool and gentle so you don’t burn or irritate the delicate skin in the area.

How to get rid of yeast in your body?

Change out of damp clothing as soon as possible. Don’t spend a lot of time in a wet swimsuit or sweaty workout clothes. Yeast loves to grow in warm, damp environments. Shower right away after swimming or exercising, and change into something dry and breathable.

How long does it take for a yeast infection to go away?

Take any medications as directed by your doctor. It may take a few days to a couple weeks for the treatment to completely eliminate the infection.

How long does it take for yeast to clear up?

It may take up to 10-14 days for your yeast infection to clear up once you begin treatment. However, if you don’t notice any improvement after 3 days of treatment, your symptoms get worse during treatment, or your symptoms return after treatment is complete, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Thanks!

What to wear when you have yeast in your vagina?

Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and underwear. Tight or unbreathable clothes can trap moisture and promote the growth of yeast in and around the vagina. Opt for breathable, comfortable pants or skirts and underwear made of pure cotton.

How to get rid of a swollen intestine while pregnant?

Get plenty of sleep to help your body fight the infection. Try to get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. While you’re pregnant, you may also benefit from a few extra hours of sleep at night or a few short naps throughout the day.

Yeast Infections and Fertility

Though yeast infections don't cause infertility directly, if left untreated, they could cause pelvic inflammatory disease, leading to infertility. 2

Yeast Infections and Gestation

Yeast infections are always irritating, but for pregnant people, they make life even more uncomfortable.

Yeast Infections and Postpartum

Ideally, a yeast infection that occurs during pregnancy would be treated prior to childbirth. However, that doesn't always happen. In addition, the Candida fungus can spread between the baby and the person who gave birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Always talk to your healthcare provider if you're pregnant and suspect you might have a yeast infection. While there's a good chance they'll recommend an over-the-counter vaginal cream, ointment, or suppository, it's best to get their input on exactly what type you should use. 5

A Word From Verywell

Between the swollen ankles, constant trips to the bathroom, and having to carry around another human at all times, pregnancy can be rough. Throw in a yeast infection and it can be downright miserable.

What is yeast infection?

Yeast infections are a common type of vaginal infection, and they're especially common in pregnant women. These infections - also called monilial vaginitis or vaginal candidiasis - are caused by microscopic fungi in the Candida family, most often Candida albicans. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments.

How to treat itching in vagina?

It may take a few days of treatment before you begin to feel some relief. In the meantime, you can soothe the itching with an ice pack or by soaking for 10 minutes in a cool bath.

What does it mean when your vagina is white?

Odorless vaginal discharge that's often white, creamy, or cottage cheesy. Discomfort or pain during sex. Burning when you urinate (when the urine hits your already irritated vulva) If you find yourself wiping vigorously after urinating (scratching rather than wiping), that's a clue, too.

How to get rid of a swollen genital area?

Clean your genital area gently with warm water every day. (Don't douche - during pregnancy or any other time.) Get out of your wet bathing suit promptly after swimming. Change your workout clothes (especially your underwear) after any workout that makes you sweat. Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet.

Can you get yeast infections while pregnant?

Yeast infections during pregnancy. Yeast infections are common in pregnancy. If you have symptoms - such as itchiness and irritation and vaginal discharge - tell your healthcare provider. She can confirm that's what you have and recommend a medication for treatment.

Can yeast be found in vagina?

These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. It's not unusual to have some 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 microorganisms. Three out of four women will have a yeast infection at some time.

Does estrogen cause yeast infection?

Some researchers think estrogen may also have a direct effect on yeast, causing it to grow faster and stick more easily to the walls of the vagina. You're also more likely to get a yeast infection if you: Recently took antibiotics or steroid medicines. Have diabetes and your blood sugar is not under control. Douche or use vaginal sprays.

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