An overgrowth of yeast or bacteria in the vaginal tract may be the result of all the hormone changes within your pregnant body. Yes, add these two issues to the list of pregnancy discomforts. The itchiness that comes with both can be maddening, but more importantly, one requires an over-the-counter treatment, while the other can threaten your pregnancy. How can you tell the difference?
When it’s a Yeast Infection
Yeast infections (vaginal candidiasis) aren’t dangerous; they’re simply uncomfortable and unfortunately extremely common—about 75% of women will have at least one in their lifetime. During pregnancy, about 20–30% of women experience yeast infections due to an increase of the hormone estrogen (most often during the second trimester). That creamy, itchy, cottage cheese-like discharge is an overgrowth of the yeast fungus in the vaginal tract. You may notice a yeast-like or sweet odor or no smell at all, lots of itchy discharge, burning during sexual intercourse or urination, and red, irritated skin around your vagina.
The quickest way to help yourself is to head to your nearest pharmacy and purchase an over-the-counter remedy, like an antifungal topical cream or vaginal suppositories. The 7-day formulations work best during pregnancy to prevent recurrence, and you might have to treat the infection for up to 14 days. Talk to your nurse, health care provider, or pharmacist to ensure that you’re taking the correct type of medication for pregnant people.
When it’s Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria and can complicate your pregnancy. Bacterial vaginosis has been linked to preterm labor (before 37 weeks), premature rupture of membranes (when your water breaks early), low birth weight, miscarriage and postpartum infections.
Similar to a yeast infection, you’ll notice bacterial vaginosis, but it’s more distinct. BV often has a gray or whitish discharge and comes with a fishy odor. You may also have red and itchy, irritated skin around your vagina, which can burn when you urinate and feel painful during sex. When you first notice these symptoms, call your nurse or health care provider for an appointment.
Testing Your Vaginal Discharge
Your pregnancy care provider doesn’t automatically test your vaginal discharge during prenatal appointments. It’s important to note all your symptoms and share them. Your provider will then test your vaginal discharge to determine if you have a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, or other infection. Then, they may give you a vaginal probiotic or antibiotics.
Home Testing
Over the past few years, several FDA-cleared home kits have become available that conveniently test your vaginal discharge and imbalances in acidity or alkalinity (pH). The tests don’t tell you if you have an infection; they give you information that, along with your symptoms, empowers you to call your health care provider. These tests are not designed for detecting sexually transmitted infections. Other home tests allow you to take a sample on a swab and send it to a lab. Starting with these tests could save you time and put you on the path to the right treatment more quickly.
Reduce Your Risk For Yeast and Bacterial Infections
Some people are more likely to have recurring yeast and bacterial infections throughout their lives, possibly because of genetics.
However, there are many ways to reduce your likelihood of having yeast and bacterial infections:
- Wipe front to back after using the bathroom
- Wear 100% cotton underwear
- Do not douche
- Avoid using oils in your vagina (such as coconut)
- Change pads, liners, and tampons often
- Wear clothes that are loose-fitting
- Take off wet clothes soon after exercising or swimming
- Take warm baths instead of hot
- Sleep with no underwear to allow airflow
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Itching in Pregnancy: What is Intrahepatic Cholestasis (ICP)?
