Vaginal infections during pregnancy
The surge in hormones during pregnancy make moms-to-be more
susceptible to a host of vaginal infections. A woman’s body transforms in many
ways during pregnancy and an increase in vaginal discharge is one of the common
changes.
If the discharge is white or clear and odour-free, it means
it is caused by the pregnancy hormones and your vagina is healthy. But if the
discharge is excessive, red or yellow and smells, it can be a sign of an
infection. Vaginal infection happens when the natural balance of the bacteria
that live in the vagina is disrupted.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Almost 1 in every 5 pregnant women develop this itchy
infection, according to the National Institutes of Health. BV occurs when there
is an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina due to the shifting of hormones. If
left untreated, it can lead to premature birth or low birth weight of the baby.
The overgrowth of candida can lead to burning and itching in
the vagina, which can be suspected as a yeast infection. The increased estrogen
and progesterone help create the environment in which yeast can thrive. Some
antibiotics can also disrupt the pH balance of your vagina.
- Wear comfortable cotton underwear. Avoid wearing tight
pants that can cause bacteria inducing sweat.
- Never sit around in swimsuit or wet panty after swimming.
Change immediately into a clean cotton panty.
- Sleep without underwear to reduce the risk of infections.
- Wipe front to back when you go to the bathroom.
- Skip bathing oils as they can trap bacteria.
- Stay hydrated to help flush out toxins.
- Eat complex carbohydrates and whole grains instead of
refined sugar.
- Consume yogurt often.
- Stick to one partner to decrease your chances.
- Use a condom to prevent the spreading of the infection.
Email:gynecologycongress@frontierscongress.com
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