Many women find that pregnancy brings yeast infections, often multiple ones per pregnancy. If you have ever had Candida with a past pregnancy, then there is a very good chance you will have it with future ones as well.

Some symptoms of Candida in pregnancy are:

-Painful urination

-Pain during sex

-Enlarged or swollen vulva

-White discharge from the vagina

-Itching or discomfort in the vaginal area

Candida is more serious and more dangerous during pregnancy because the body changes due to conditions in the body (such as hormonal changes) and this can lead to the infection becoming chronic, or recurring. Previous use of antibiotics or the birth control pill can increase your chances of getting Candida during pregnancy (or at any other time) and hormone changes increase your risk of getting it while pregnant.

If you are diagnosed with Candida during pregnancy, your doctor will likely order a dose of antifungal treatment or cream. These are usually given as topical treatments because oral medications for Candida cannot e safely taken while pregnant. While this will usually kill the initial overgrowth of Candida, there are things you need to do to ensure it doesn’t return.

Untreated Candida infection can lead to very serious health and medical problems and is worsened while pregnant. Be sure if you suspect you have Candida or a recurrence of yeast infection from Candida, see your OB/GYN right away. Do not allow this condition to go untreated.

What are some ways that the pregnant woman can try to prevent Candida overgrowth? First, you may need to make some lifestyle and diet changes for the health of you and your baby. Limiting your sugar intake and trying to eat only complex carbohydrates is a good start. There are also vitamins and supplements you can take and much more.