All About VYI and Pregnancy

Facts About Thrush and Pregnancy

Common among women, vaginal yeast infection known as vaginal thrush – is mainly caused by the Candida albicans fungus and affects 3 out of 4 women during their lifetime¹ . Often developed as a result of taking medication or wearing overly tight clothes and underwear, pregnant women can get VYI because of the rapid changes affecting their bodies. Hormonal imbalances, and especially the high level of estrogen, increase the likelihood of developing vaginal thrush² .

Here are some facts about VYI that every soon-to-be mother should know, if you develop thrush during pregnancy or while trying to conceive:

(It’s worth noting, however, that recent studies have shown an association of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, or VVC, with a higher chance of pregnancy-related complexities, such as preterm labor, congenital cutaneous candidiosis, and the like³ .)

• Although it may cause discomfort or pain during sex, vaginal yeast infection will not prevent you from getting pregnant⁴
• It is not known to harm your unborn baby⁵
• This type of infection may be passed on to a baby during delivery⁶
• If passed on to the baby during delivery, it is usually harmless, easy to stop and treat⁷

Avoiding and Treating VYI During Pregnancy

There are a number of steps every woman can take to lower the risk of developing the condition while pregnant. Proper hygiene, breathable cotton underwear, and regular check-ups with your OB-GYN are some of the things that help lower the risk of thrush, or showing symptoms of vaginal infection.

However, if you suspect you have developed a yeast infection, first see your OB-GYN before undertaking any vaginal infection treatment, which could often include an anti-VYI vaginal tablet, like Clotrimazole (Canesten®) 100mg Vaginal Tablet.

Given that prevention is better than cure, here are some tips to help you avoid vaginal candidiasis:

• Wear breathable cotton underwear that is not too tight
• Ensure proper hygiene but avoid bubble baths, using soaps or any personal care products made with harsh chemicals around your vagina
• Do not douche as it might increase the risk of vaginal irritation and disrupt the vaginal pH balance
• Change underwear daily and wash it in hot water
• If you have diabetes, ensure your sugar level is well managed; with high blood sugar, the unfiltered sugar may pass through your urine and create an environment for thrush to thrive⁸
• Wipe from the front to the back to stop the bacteria from being transported to your vagina⁹

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.