Common vaginal infections during pregnancy include yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis. Symptoms can range from itching to unusual discharge and odor. Treatment varies depending on the infection type and may include antibiotics, antifungal medication, or pain relief medication.
Vaginal Infection During Pregnancy: Warning Signs
You experience many physical and emotional changes during pregnancy. Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are a few to name. While most of these changes are normal and may settle once you are past the three-month mark, you must know the difference between normal and warning signs to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Vaginal infections, for example, may be common during pregnancy, but certain infections must be discussed with a gynecologist in Mulund. Let’s learn more about vaginal infection during pregnancy, symptoms, treatment, and when a consultation is necessary.
Why are Vaginal Infections Common During Pregnancy?
Your immune system is temporarily modulated to support a growing baby. This, combined with the hormonal shifts, such as a sudden surge in estrogen, can make you more prone to vaginal infections. Hormonal shifts, especially, can change the normal balance of yeast and bacteria in your vagina, increasing the risk of irritation and infection. This may sound alarming, but most vaginal infections are treatable and are often not concerning during pregnancy.
Types of Vaginal Infections
Your gynecologist will determine the best vaginal infection treatment in Mulund based on the type of infection.
Yeast Infection
Candida, a fungus that naturally lives in your vagina, can overgrow during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. This fungal overgrowth can cause a vaginal yeast infection, which can have these symptoms:
- Constant itchiness around the vagina
- Thick vaginal discharge
- Mild discomfort or a burning sensation, especially during sexual intercourse
Your doctor may prescribe topical antifungal medication to relieve your symptoms. Avoid taking over-the-counter medicines during pregnancy.
Bacterial Vaginosis
Like yeast infections, an imbalance in the naturally occurring bacteria in your vagina can lead to bacterial vaginosis. Symptoms include:
- Thin grayish-white discharge from the vagina
- A fishy odor
- Itching, burning sensation in your vagina
It’s important to seek early treatment for BV, as if left untreated, it might increase the risk of premature delivery or low birth weight babies. Your gynecologist will recommend a course of antibiotics to treat bacterial vaginosis.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by parasites, may not cause many symptoms, except for making sex unpleasant. Some women, however, notice yellow-green discharge with vaginal itching.
The risk is greater for pregnant women. Untreated trichomoniasis can increase the risk of early water breaking, preterm birth, and a low birth weight baby. Treatment involves antibiotics.
When to See a Gynecologist
It’s worth bringing up unusual changes in your vaginal discharge or other symptoms during your routine consultations with a gynecologist. Here are some unusual symptoms:
- Thick, cottage-cheese-like, green, or gray, or unusual discharge that has changed in color.
- You have persistent itching, discomfort, or irritation around the vagina.
- You experience a burning sensation or pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
- Your symptoms persist or recur.
Vaginal infections during pregnancy are possible and more common than you think. Proper awareness, accurate diagnosis, and timely treatment can help you effectively manage these infections.