Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
The short answer
Yeast infections are more common during pregnancy due to higher estrogen levels and changes in vaginal pH that promote Candida overgrowth. They affect about 1 in 4 pregnant people. While uncomfortable, yeast infections do not harm the baby during pregnancy. Topical antifungal treatments are safe and effective during pregnancy.
Parents everywhere have the same worry. You are doing the right thing by looking into it.
By Age
What to expect by age
Yeast infections may occur at any point in pregnancy. In the first trimester, talk to your provider before using any over-the-counter treatments. They can confirm the diagnosis and recommend safe topical antifungal creams or suppositories. Oral fluconazole (Diflucan) is generally avoided during pregnancy.
Yeast infections may recur due to ongoing hormonal changes. Wearing cotton underwear, avoiding douching, keeping the vulvar area clean and dry, and eating yogurt with live cultures may help prevent recurrences. Topical antifungal treatments (miconazole, clotrimazole) for 7 days are typically recommended during pregnancy.
Treating yeast infections before delivery is recommended, as the baby can contract oral thrush (a yeast infection in the mouth) while passing through the birth canal. Your provider can recommend appropriate treatment. Do not self-diagnose - similar symptoms can be caused by other infections.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge with vulvar itching
- Redness and swelling of the vulva
- Burning with urination or intercourse
- Symptoms that improve with prescribed antifungal treatment
- You think you have a yeast infection and want to confirm before treating
- Symptoms do not improve after completing treatment
- You are getting recurrent yeast infections during pregnancy
- Vaginal discharge with a strong odor, gray or green color, or accompanied by fever, which could indicate a bacterial or sexually transmitted infection
- Severe pelvic pain accompanying vaginal symptoms
Sources
Related Resources
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician.
Worrying about your baby means you care. That is a good thing.
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