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Thrush is a common yeast infection that can happen to anyone, but it’s more common and riskier during pregnancy. It occurs when things get out of balance in your body, causing uncomfortable symptoms. When you’re pregnant, all the changes happening in your body, like more hormones and changes down there, can make it easier to get thrush. If thrush isn’t taken care of, it can make things uncomfortable for you and even affect your baby. Learning about thrush during pregnancy is important so you can deal with it at the right time and keep both you and your baby healthy and comfortable.
During pregnancy, a multitude of changes occur within the body, creating an environment ripe for potential infections, including thrush. These combined factors create an environment where the delicate balance of microorganisms in the body, particularly in the vaginal area, can be easily disturbed, leading to an increased likelihood of developing thrush during pregnancy.
The increased levels of estrogen during pregnancy can create an environment conducive to yeast growth. This hormone surge alters the pH balance of the vagina, favouring the proliferation of yeast, specifically Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for thrush.
Pregnancy triggers changes in the immune system to accommodate the growing fetus. However, this adjustment may lead to a temporary weakening of the immune response, making pregnant individuals more susceptible to infections, including thrush.
Fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which are common during pregnancy, can also contribute to thrush. High blood sugar levels provide an ideal environment for yeast to thrive, leading to an increased risk of developing infections.
Pregnancy causes changes in the vaginal environment, such as increased vaginal secretions and changes in acidity levels, which can create a more favourable habitat for yeast growth.
Certain prenatal medications, such as antibiotics or steroids, which are sometimes prescribed during pregnancy, can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the body, potentially leading to an overgrowth of yeast.
It is important to note that thrush can manifest itself differently in pregnant women, so it is important you know what signs to look out for. Symptoms of thrush in pregnant women include;
Untreated thrush during pregnancy can pose risks to both the mother and the developing baby. For the expectant mother, persistent thrush can lead to severe discomfort and pain, potentially causing difficulties in daily activities and impacting overall well-being. Moreover, untreated thrush may increase the risk of more severe infections spreading beyond the vaginal area, leading to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease.
In terms of the baby’s health, thrush left unaddressed can increase the likelihood of oral thrush in newborns during delivery or shortly after birth. This oral yeast infection in infants can cause feeding difficulties, discomfort and potentially spread to other parts of the body. Seeking timely treatment for thrush during pregnancy is crucial to prevent these complications and ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.
Managing thrush during pregnancy requires safe and effective treatment methods that prioritise the health of both the expectant mother and the baby. While certain medications may not be advisable during pregnancy, there are several options that are considered safe under medical guidance:
Clotrimazole Cream: Widely recommended by healthcare professionals for pregnant women, clotrimazole cream effectively targets and eliminates the yeast responsible for thrush. It’s applied externally to the affected area for relief from itching and discomfort.
Clotrimazole Pessaries: These inserts are inserted into the vagina and release the antifungal medication gradually. They provide targeted treatment for thrush while minimising systemic absorption, considered safe during pregnancy.
Professional Guidance: Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any treatment, even for over-the-counter medications deemed safe during pregnancy. They can provide tailored advice and recommend the most suitable treatment based on individual health factors.
For safe and reliable thrush treatment options during pregnancy, explore our collection of thrush treatments for women. Our range includes clotrimazole creams and pessaries recommended for pregnant women. Visit our collection to find safe and effective solutions for thrush relief during pregnancy.
Remember, it’s crucial to prioritise safety and consult a healthcare professional before using any products, ensuring they are suitable for your individual health needs during pregnancy.
While it may not always be preventable, maintaining good hygiene, wearing breathable underwear, and avoiding excessive sugar intake may help reduce the risk.
Thrush itself is usually not harmful to the baby during pregnancy, but if it’s left untreated and passed to the baby during delivery, it can cause oral thrush in the newborn.
If you suspect you have thrush while pregnant, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if experiencing severe discomfort or noticing unusual symptoms.
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