Home / Health Insurance / Wellness Corner / Do Yeast Infections Impact Pregnancy? ( EST READ TIME: 3 minutes )

Can A Yeast Infection Affect My Ability to Get Pregnant?

Most women experience itching and burning irritation associated with a vaginal yeast infection at least once in her lifetime. While this is uncomfortable, it does not cause any significant changes and does not affect your fertility. However, there are some barriers that a yeast infection may cause when trying to conceive. Read on to know more.

What Is a Yeast Infection?

Vagina contains some yeast cells and bacteria that must remain balanced to keep it healthy. If the balance is off, the yeast cells will multiply and reach unhealthy levels, something that will cause burning, swelling, itching or irritation. This is called yeast infection or vaginal candiasis, and it affects the vagina and other tissues that surround the vaginal opening (vagina and vulva).

Causes of a Yeast Infection

Yeast overgrowth can result from:

• Pregnancy

• Antibiotics usage

• Weakened Immune System

• Uncontrolled diabetes

• Hormone medications like oral contraceptives

When Do I Need to See a Doctor?

If you are pregnant or planning to conceive and if you are experiencing discomfort down there then immediately consult your doctor. The physician may prescribe an ointment or medication depending on severity and spread of the infection.

Can Yeast Infections Cause Infertility?

Yeast infections aren’t known to cause infertility by themselves, but if your vaginal flora balance is off, your body will react different to a sperm via several physical changes. For example, the infection can cause cervical mucus changes, making it hard for the sperm to enter your uterus.

Do Yeast Infections Affect Your Chances of Conceiving?

Although there is no conclusive evidence to show that yeast infections do cause infertility, they affect your chances of conceiving in other ways. For instance, if the vaginal flora is poor, your ability to get pregnant will be affected by environmental changes that make it hard for the sperm to survive. What’s more, if you are suffering from an infection, you will not feel like having sex regularly, or the experience could be too painful to handle.

How Are Yeast Infections Treated?

Fortunately, there are many treatment options you can consider if you have yeast infections. The treatments vary depending on the severity of an individual’s infection. While, you can use various over-the-counter options like ointments, creams, tablets and suppositories even if you don’t have a prescription, it is best to consult with a health care provider to get the right treatment the first time.

What Are the Ways to Prevent Yeast Infections?

Here are some simple ways in which you can prevent a yeast infection:

● Always keep the vaginal area clean

You can keep the area clean by cleaning up with water and mild soap, then dry thoroughly afterwards.

● Avoid wearing tight clothes

Wearing tight-fitting clothes usually trap moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for yeast reproduction. So it’s better to wear loose-fitting clothes.

● Use chemical-free tampons or pads

Avoid using ordinary sanitary products or tampons. It’s better to buy chemical-free one and change them regularly as perfumes, dyes, and chemicals can easily irritate the vagina and create a natural bacteria imbalance around this area.

● Maintain a healthy diet

A diet high in sugar and being overweight can contribute to yeast infections. Although eating the right food will not cure yeast infections, maintaining a healthy diet will assist the body to fight yeast infections better and ensure the problem does not recur.

● Make sure to pee after having sex

While this advice is usually recommended for preventing urinary tract infections, it can also help prevent yeast infections.

Conclusion

A yeast infection doesn't make you infertile but it does limit your chances of getting pregnant.

Keep all the points mentioned above in mind and visit your doctor regularly to stay safe and healthy.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.

Sources: Mira Care, Baby Center, Cloud Nine Fertility, Fertility2Family

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

Prepare Your Body For Pregnancy With These Tips

Pregnancy Tips For First-Time Moms To Follow

Blood Tests During Pregnancy – All You Need To Know

5 Things to Know About Maternity Insurance in India

Does Your Health Insurance Plan Covers Maternity?

Published on November 14, 2022