Candida in pregnancy: symptoms, therapy and natural remedies for vaginal infection
Candida in pregnancy is a fairly common "infection, which does not involve serious risks for your health and that of the future baby. Despite this, it is important for the pregnant woman not to neglect candidiasis, recognize its symptoms and be indicated by the gynecologist the right one. therapy.
Candida in pregnancy has the same symptoms as candida contracted in an uninteresting state. It is a "fungal infection due to yeasts belonging to the genus" Candida albicans "(only in 5% of cases to the genus" Candida glabra "). These yeasts are normally present in the vaginal mucosa and do not cause any problems if kept under control by pH and vaginal bacterial flora.
When, however, the yeasts of Candida Albicans proliferate, they cause vaginal infections known as candidiasis, localized in the female genitals. Let's find out together everything there is to know about candida in pregnancy: what are the symptoms, the causes that cause it, the right therapy in case you have contracted the infection, the natural remedies to be adopted and the ways to prevent its occurrence. Meanwhile, here's a video on foods to eat to prevent candida (not in pregnancy):
What are the causes of candida in pregnancy?
Candida in pregnancy can be due to several factors. Among the main causes we find first of all the "increase in the level of estrogen in the blood, a phenomenon that characterizes gestation. At the same time, pregnancy involves an" alteration of the normal vaginal bacterial flora which, as we have said, serves to keep under I control the yeasts and do not let them proliferate. The changes that occur in the female body naturally lead to this alteration of the flora, as well as to a general lowering of the immune defenses.
Beyond these typical factors of pregnancy, poor nutrition with excessive sugar consumption; high blood sugar and diabetes; any antibiotic therapies in progress; poor intimate hygiene and the use of underwear can also contribute to causing vaginal infection. synthetic, as well as wearing very tight pants. Finally, candida can also be correlated with stress.
What are the symptoms of candida in pregnancy?
The symptoms with which candida occurs in pregnancy are the same as those of candida contracted in an uninteresting state. Vaginal infection is characterized by whitish, odorless or yeast-smelling discharge, with a consistency similar to curdled milk. Vaginal inflammation also occurs with redness, burning and itching, which can be more or less intense.
The burning, in case of candidiasis, can increase during urination or sexual intercourse. In general, what is felt is a sense of "discomfort" localized in the private parts. Many of these symptoms characterize different types of vaginal infection: to be sure that it is candida it is good to consult a gynecology or obstetrics doctor.
Diagnosis and therapy for candida in pregnancy
If you have any of the symptoms we have described, go to your gynecologist right away to be sure it is candida in pregnancy. Your doctor will be able to identify vaginal infection with a visual and gynecological examination or - if necessary - with a microscopic examination of vaginal discharge. Candidiasis in pregnancy usually involves the presence of white plaques in the vaginal mucosa, which appears edematous.
Candida in pregnancy does not involve risks for the fetus, but it must still be treated with the right therapy. Usually, pessaries or antifungal creams are prescribed to be applied locally for at least a week. The oral antifungals that are commonly used are instead to be avoided for candidiasis in pregnancy: their active ingredients (miconazole and clotrimazole) can be harmful to the fetus.
As a precaution, local antifungals are usually avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy. The important thing, however, is to trust your doctor and always avoid doing it yourself!
Natural remedies and prevention tips
Reiterating once again that, in case of candidiasis during pregnancy, it will be good to contact the obstetrics gynecology department and avoid doing it alone - there are natural remedies that do not replace medical therapy, but can assist it.
The first recommended natural remedy is calendula, with known anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, to be used as a mother tincture (30 drops dissolved in warm water before making the bidet). Alternatively, tea tree oil can also be used (7 drops will suffice).
The most effective natural remedies, however, are those related to our lifestyle and to some precautions that can play a fundamental role in preventing vaginal infection. First of all it is very important to take care of your personal hygiene, using products with an acid pH and keeping the vaginal area dry. Always choose cotton and non-synthetic linens. Avoid sanitary pads and panty liners when they're not needed, as well as tight clothing.
Nutrition is also important when it comes to the prevention of candida in pregnancy: limit the consumption of sugars, leavened products and dairy products as much as possible. Instead, try to consume more fiber, fruit, vegetables, and yogurt, which can help restore the vaginal flora.
