- Rapid test to identify if it is candidiasis
- What to do in case of suspicion
- How to cure candidiasis in pregnancy
Itching in the vagina is in most cases a sign of candidiasis, which occurs when an excess of the Candida albicans fungus develops in the intimate region.
This symptom is especially common in pregnancy, since, due to the common hormonal changes in pregnancy, there is a decrease in vaginal pH, facilitating the development of the fungus and increasing the risk of having candidiasis.
Rapid test to identify if it is candidiasis
So, if you are pregnant and think you may have candidiasis, take our online test, checking your symptoms and find out what your risk is:
- 1. Redness and swelling throughout the intimate area Yes No
- 2. Whitish plaques in the vagina Yes No
- 3. Whitish discharge with lumps, similar to cut milk Yes No
- 4. Pain or burning sensation when urinating Yes No
- 5. Yellowish or greenish discharge Yes No
- 6. Presence of small balls in the vagina or rough skin Yes No
- 7. Itchiness that appears or worsens after using some type of panties, soap, cream, wax or lubricant in the intimate area Yes No
- 8. Presence of small swelling located on the side of the vagina Yes No
However, redness and burning sensation when urinating can indicate urinary tract infection, another common situation in pregnancy, and for that reason in case of doubt you should go to the doctor and do tests to make the correct diagnosis. See other symptoms that may indicate a urinary tract infection in pregnancy.
What to do in case of suspicion
The pregnant woman with symptoms of candidiasis should consult the gynecologist to make the correct diagnosis and start treatment with antifungal drugs in the form of an ointment.
The doctor may order tests such as the pap smear to be sure of the infection the woman has, because this test identifies the causative agent.
Candidiasis in pregnancy does not cause changes in the fetus, but when it is not treated, it can be transmitted to the newborn during delivery, causing oral candidiasis and this can pass to the mother's breast during breastfeeding, bringing pain and discomfort to the woman.
How to cure candidiasis in pregnancy
It is recommended to use the medications indicated by the obstetrician, suitable for insertion into the vagina, following the medical guidelines and the package insert.
While the medicine has no effect, to relieve the symptoms of candidiasis in pregnancy, you can put cold compresses or wash the affected area with cold water, reducing itching and redness. The sitz bath can also be made with warm water and vinegar.
A good tip is to increase the daily intake of yogurt, since it has Lactobacillus that help to balance the vaginal flora, making the candidiasis cure to be achieved earlier. Other measures that can help in the following video:
