6 symptoms of candidiasis in pregnancy and tips on how to avoid it

Candidiasis in pregnancy affects many women and can restrict the baby’s growth and increase the risk of prematurity. Check out the explanation of gynecologist Dr. Fábio Broner (CRM 155215), from Hospital Albert Sabin, about the main symptoms of candidiasis in pregnancy. In addition, the gynecologist answered the most frequent questions about prevention and treatment.

Symptoms of candidiasis in pregnancy

According to the gynecologist, “clinically, candidiasis causes genital discomfort and is usually one of the factors that most afflicts the patient”. Typically, women have the following symptoms:

• itching;
• Edema of the vulva and/or vagina;
• whitish and lumpy secretion;
• Vulvovaginal burning;
• Pain when urinating;
• Pain during or after having sex.

It is extremely important that during pregnancy the woman performs prenatal care to take care of health and monitor the development of the baby. Thus, it is possible to carry out the treatment as soon as possible and avoid major complications.

Is it dangerous to have candidiasis in pregnancy?

The doctor explained that “candidiasis in pregnancy can be dangerous, as it increases the risk of prematurity, growth restriction of the baby and even congenital infections”. Therefore, monitoring during pregnancy is important, because it guarantees the health of the baby and the mother.

How to treat and prevent candidiasis in pregnancy

Despite the great discomfort of candidiasis, it can be avoided with some basic care. The following are the main recommendations to prevent and treat candidiasis:

1. Hygiene care

Always properly sanitize the intimate region with soap and water. If you have doubts about which soap to use, consult your doctor so he can indicate the most suitable product.

2. Food care

Candidiasis usually manifests when the immune system is weakened. So, avoid a diet rich in carbs and seek to have a healthy diet, as it contributes to improving immunity.

3. Avoid wearing tight pants

Wearing tight pants for a long time can contribute to an increase in temperature and humidity in the intimate region, favoring the development of candidiasis. This is because hot and humid environments collaborate for the development of this fungus. So, take the opportunity to wear light and comfortable pieces, such as dresses, during your pregnancy.

4. Opt for cotton panties

Fabric panties such as spandex, lace, lycra and microfiber can cause allergy or irritation in the intimate region. Thus, they can contribute to the increase in humidity and temperature. Therefore, prefer cotton fabric panties and, preferably, sleep without panties.

Following the guidelines mentioned above, it is easy to maintain a care routine to prevent candidiasis in pregnancy. However, if you notice any of the symptoms, consult your doctor.

Questions about candidiasis in pregnancy

Gynecologist Fábio Broner answered some frequently asked questions on the subject, follow:

• What remedy for pregnant thrush can I use? “The treatment for pregnant women is done with the use of topical creams based on fungicides, such as nystatin, miconazole or clotrimazole. Oral antifungals are contraindicated during pregnancy.
• Can you use ointment with applicator during pregnancy? “Yes, ointment with applicator can be used”.
• Is there any home treatment for candidiasis in pregnancy? To avoid infection, the gynecologist explained that it is enough to “have a good diet and a healthy lifestyle. For symptom relief, you can take a sitz bath with chamomile tea,” he recommended.
• Can thrush in pregnancy pass to men? “Yes, it can be passed on to a man during sexual intercourse. Therefore, in this case, the man must also be treated and guided”.
• What causes candidiasis in pregnancy? “Pregnancy is a favorable period for infections by the Candida spp. due, among other factors, to the increase in circulating estrogen. This results in an increase in the amount of glycogen in the vaginal walls, favoring infection. Patients with diabetes are more likely to develop infections from Candida spp.”, he highlighted.
• Can thrush be a symptom of pregnancy? Fábio said no, but as he pointed out earlier, the gestational period favors infections caused by Candida spp.

Remember, candidiasis in pregnancy can be easily treated, so pay attention to the symptoms and let your doctor know so he can indicate the most appropriate treatment. Enjoy and learn more about hemorrhoids in pregnancy, what are the symptoms and treatments indicated.