How to Treat Yeast Infections in Pregnancy
A mother's main concern during pregnancy is the well-being of her baby. If you develop a yeast infection, you might try to endure the uncomfortable side effects in order to prevent your baby from being harmed by treatment. You don't have to suffer needlessly, however--there are safe ways to treat and cure the infection.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Know the symptoms. In order to properly treat yeast infections in pregnancy, you have to know what to look for. Most women who have yeast infections experience the following symptoms: cheesy or clumpy white discharge, itching and redness, and pain during lovemaking or urinating. If you have any doubts about whether you have a yeast infection, contact your physician for confirmation.
-
2
Oral drugs are out of the question--they could harm your baby. Opt for cream or suppositories that contain Clotrimazole, which kills fungi and yeasts by causing holes in their cell membranes. Clotrimazole products are usually used once a day before bed for three to seven days. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember it.
-
-
3
Try a natural anti-fungal remedy like garlic. To treat a yeast infection using garlic, remove the papery white shell from the outside of the clove. Insert the clove into your vagina before bed. In the morning, remove the clove and flush it down the toilet. It will usually take about three days for symptoms to clear up.
You can also fill a bathtub with water and add one cup of apple cider vinegar, then soak in it for 30 minutes. After a couple of days, the infection should be gone. Eating plain yogurt is also known to help. Be sure to only consume unsweetened yogurt, as sugar will aggravate the situation. Drink a lot of water to help flush the infection from your system. Avoid foods that feed yeast such as white flour.
-
4
Seek relief for the symptoms. Apply an ice pack or cold compress to the area to soothe itching and burning. To relieve vulvar itching, make a paste of slippery elm powder and water and apply it to the area. Soaking a cotton pad in aloe vera juice and applying it to the area will also help relieve itching. Try applying plain yogurt directly to the area, but be sure to wipe it away once the itching has ceased.
-
5
Reduce your chances of another infection. Clean your vagina with warm water but don't douche. Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid synthetic materials. After exercising or swimming, remove underwear promptly. Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent bacteria from entering your vagina. Sleep without underwear if possible; this will allow air to enter your genital area. Avoid bubble baths and perfumed soaps. The most important rule is to keep your genital area as dry as possible because yeast thrives in a moist environment.
If you think you might have a yeast infection but aren't sure, visit your doctor or check MedicineNet.com to read more about the signs and symptoms.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Copla
