Vaginal Thrush During Pregnancy : Causes , Symptoms & Prevention

VAGINAL THRUSH DURING PREGNANCY : ITS CAUSES,SYMPTOMS,PREVENTION AND COMPLICATIONS

Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina. It is often the result of infection by any of a number of organisms. Such infections can be sexually transmitted, and hormonal changes during pregnancy. But menopausal women also may develop a type of inflammation called atrophic vaginitis, which is not due to infection but the result of hormonal change.

Symptoms

• Vaginal discharge which is excessive, white/yellow/green, and foul-smelling.
• Pain/soreness of the vulva/vagina during urination/sexual intercourse. In severe cases, even the mild friction of walking gives rise to a burning sensation.
• Itch/vaginal irritation, in some cases.

Complications

• Chronic (long-term) vaginitis.
• Pelvic infection, where the vaginal infection spreads up to the cervix, womb and fallopian tubes.
• Infertility.
• Infection of the newborn baby.

Common causes

• Infection by any of the following organisms:

- Bacteria e.g. chlamydia infection, gonorrhoea.
- Fungi e.g. thrush.
- Protozoa e.g. trichomonas infection.
- Viruses e.g. genital herpes.

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy as well as in menopausal women giving rise to atrophic vaginitis, where the dry and thinning/delicate vaginal tissue becomes more prone to injury and inflammation
• Sensitivity to spermicides/ vaginal douches/ deodorants.
• Forgotten tampon.

What you can do…?

• See your doctor if you suspect vaginitis. (Delay in treatment may lead to complications.)
• Avoid scratching the area.
• Make sure you complete your prescribed course of medication, even if symptoms disappear after a few days.
• Get your sex partner(s) to be treated too, or you will be infected again.
• Abstain from sex until your doctor gives you the all-clear.

Prevention

• Wash the genital area at least once a day when you bathe. Use mild non-perfumed soap and avoid talcum powder, if your skin is sensitive.
• When wiping the genital area, wipe gently from front to back without breaking/injuring the skin.
• Avoid spermicides, sensitive to them.
• Avoid vaginal preparations (e.g. deodorants, douches), particularly, if you are sensitive to them. They are not really necessary.
• Wear loose underwear/pants made of fabrics that allow the skin to ‘breathe’.
• During menstruation, avoid wearing the same sanitary napkin for long periods. Always check whether you have removed the last tampon.
• Use a lubricant for sexual intercourse, if necessary.