Yeast Infections During Pregnancy: Causes, Treatment & Prevention
28 Mar 2025
Experiencing itching, burning, or unusual discharge down there while pregnant? Yeast infections (vaginal candidiasis) are extremely common during pregnancy, affecting up to 30% of expecting moms.
The good news? Yeast infections won’t harm your baby and can be safely treated. Let’s explore why yeast infections happen, how to treat them, and ways to prevent them during pregnancy.
Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
Redness and swelling of the vulva
Burning sensation when urinating
Discomfort or pain during sex No strong odor – If there’s a foul smell, it may be bacterial vaginosis (BV), which requires different treatment.
Available as creams or vaginal suppositories (inserted at bedtime).
Use for 7 days—shorter treatments may not be as effective during pregnancy. Avoid oral fluconazole (Diflucan) – It’s not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks. Tip: Always confirm with your OB-GYN before using any medication.
Change panty liners often if you have increased discharge. Avoid douching or scented products—these disrupt vaginal pH.
Symptoms don’t improve after 7 days of treatment.
You have frequent yeast infections (more than 4 per year).
There’s a foul-smelling discharge (may be bacterial vaginosis or an STD).
Why Are Yeast Infections More Common in Pregnancy?
1. Increased Estrogen Levels
- Higher estrogen levels cause more glycogen (sugar) in vaginal tissues, creating the perfect environment for yeast growth.
2. Changes in Vaginal pH & Hormones
- Pregnancy alters the vaginal microbiome, sometimes allowing Candida (yeast) to overgrow.
3. Weakened Immune System
- Your body focuses on protecting the baby, making you more vulnerable to infections.
4. Higher Body Temperature & Moisture
- Pregnancy increases heat and moisture in the vaginal area, which yeast loves.
Symptoms of a Yeast Infection During Pregnancy
Itching or burning in the vaginal areaThick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
Redness and swelling of the vulva
Burning sensation when urinating
Discomfort or pain during sex No strong odor – If there’s a foul smell, it may be bacterial vaginosis (BV), which requires different treatment.
Safe Yeast Infection Treatments for Pregnancy
1. Over-the-Counter Antifungal Creams & Suppositories
Clotrimazole (Monistat), Miconazole, or Terconazole are pregnancy-safe.Available as creams or vaginal suppositories (inserted at bedtime).
Use for 7 days—shorter treatments may not be as effective during pregnancy. Avoid oral fluconazole (Diflucan) – It’s not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks. Tip: Always confirm with your OB-GYN before using any medication.
Natural Home Remedies (Safe but Less Effective)
While natural remedies can provide relief, they do not cure yeast infections as effectively as antifungal treatments.1. Probiotics (Yogurt or Supplements)
Eating plain, unsweetened yogurt or taking probiotic supplements may help restore good bacteria.2. Coconut Oil or Aloe Vera
Applying a thin layer of coconut oil or aloe vera can soothe irritation. Avoid inserting garlic, vinegar, or tea tree oil into the vagina—these can cause irritation or disrupt vaginal pH.How to Prevent Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
1. Wear Breathable Cotton Underwear
Avoid tight clothing and change out of sweaty or wet clothes quickly.2. Limit Sugar & Processed Foods
Yeast thrives on sugar, so reduce sweets, white bread, and processed foods.3. Stay Dry & Clean
Pat the vaginal area dry after showers—moisture encourages yeast growth.Change panty liners often if you have increased discharge. Avoid douching or scented products—these disrupt vaginal pH.
4. Take Probiotics & Eat Yogurt
Lactobacillus probiotics help maintain healthy vaginal bacteria.5. Wipe Front to Back
Prevents spreading bacteria and yeast from the rectum to the vagina.When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if: It’s your first yeast infection during pregnancy.Symptoms don’t improve after 7 days of treatment.
You have frequent yeast infections (more than 4 per year).
There’s a foul-smelling discharge (may be bacterial vaginosis or an STD).
