Candida (Yeast Infection) in pregnancy
Causes, Safe Treatment and Natural Relief
If you’ve heard about your microbiome, you know your body is home to a complex, living ecosystem. In pregnancy, hormonal shifts and stress can change that environment—allowing some organisms to overgrow while others decrease. Frisco Midwifery & Birth Center has prepared this guide to help you understand and manage the itching, burning, and discomfort that can come with a yeast overgrowth during pregnancy.
What Is a Yeast Infection ?
A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a fungus that normally lives in balance within the vaginal microbiome.
During pregnancy, that balance shifts more easily—making yeast infections more common, especially in the second and third trimesters.
What Causes Yeast Infections?
1. Hormonal Changes
Increased estrogen raises sugar (glycogen) in vaginal tissue
Yeast feeds on this → rapid growth
2. Changes in Vaginal pH and Flora
Protective bacteria (like lactobacillus) may decrease
Less defense against yeast
3. Blood Sugar Changes
Pregnancy naturally increases insulin resistance
Higher glucose levels can promote yeast growth
4. Antibiotic Use
Kills beneficial bacteria → yeast fills the gap
5. Moisture and Heat
Tight clothing or damp environments create ideal growth conditions
Common Symptoms of Candida?
Symptoms of a yeast infection can include any or all of these symptoms depending on the severity of the over-growth:
Vaginal itching or irritation
Thick, white discharge (often “cottage cheese-like”)
Redness or swelling
Burning with urination or intercourse
Evidence-Based Treatment
(Safe in Pregnancy)
First-line treatment: topical antifungals (7-day course)
Over-the counter anti-fungal medications are the first treatment. (Read below for other lifestyle changes that you should also do if you have an overgrowth of yeast).
Miconazole (Monistat)
Clotrimazole (Look for a vaginal treatment option )
Why 7 days?
More effective during pregnancy
Lower recurrence rates
If symptoms persist:
Re-evaluate diagnosis (yeast vs BV vs irritation)
Consider extended treatment
Natural Relief & Comfort Measures
These won’t cure the infection alone—but they can make a big difference in comfort:
Wear loose, cotton underwear
Go without underwear at night; sleep in loose clothing
Use a cool compress for itching
Take lukewarm sitz baths (no soap or fragrance)
Keep the area clean and dry
Diet and Candida: What Helps?
A supportive diet can reduce recurrence and improve healing.
Focus on:
Protein (eggs, meat, Greek yogurt)
Healthy fats (olive oil, avocado)
Fiber-rich vegetables
Limit:
Sugar
White flour
Sweetened drinks
Probiotics may help:
Yogurt, kefir, or supplements with lactobacillus strains
Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Recurrence
Change out of wet clothes quickly
Avoid tight leggings or synthetic underwear
Skip scented soaps, douches, and feminine sprays
Support immune health with rest and stress reduction
Wash your underwear in hot water and add vinegar to the wash to make sure you are not re-infecting yourself.
If you are being intimate, make sure your partner is not experiencing symptoms.
When to Call Your Midwife
Reach out if:
You’re unsure if it’s a yeast infection
Symptoms don’t improve after treatment
You have recurrent infections
There is a strong odor (may suggest bacterial vaginosis)
Discharge is green, gray, or watery
Pain is significant
Final Thoughts: Restoring Balance
Yeast infections in pregnancy are common—and treatable. The goal isn’t just eliminating yeast, but restoring a healthy balance in your body. (AKA - take a high quality probiotic with lactobacillus reuteri and lactobacillus rhamonosus.)
With the right treatment and small daily adjustments, most women find relief quickly and can prevent recurrence.
