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Vaginal Infection During Pregnancy: Types and Causes

Know all about vaginal infections during pregnancy

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Pregnancy comes with a truckload of changes – from physical to emotional. And for those who are pregnant for the first time, every little change such as [unusual discharge when pregnant](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/vaginal-discharge-during-pregnancy-colors-and-texture) brings with it a wave of confusion and uncertainty. So, it’s natural to feel concerned when you experience any __vaginal itch during pregnancy__. This could be a symptom of __vaginal infection during pregnancy__.
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- [Types of vaginal infections during pregnancy](#types-of-vaginal-infections-during-pregnancy)
- [Why pregnant women are more susceptible to vaginal infections](#why-pregnant-women-are-more-susceptible-to-vaginal-infections)
- [How to prevent vaginal infections during pregnancy?](#how-to-prevent-vaginal-infections-during-pregnancy)


Types of vaginal infections during pregnancy 

There are many types of __vaginal infections__ that you could get __during pregnancy__, with bacterial vaginosis and [yeast infection](/tips-and-advice-for-women/intimate-hygiene/yeast-infection-during-pregnancy) being the common ones. Let’s look at the different types of __vaginal infections during pregnancy__:


<div id="types-of-vaginal-infections-during-pregnancy"></div><h2> Types of vaginal infections during pregnancy </h2>

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<h3 class="charpcos">1. Bacterial Vaginosis </h3> 
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If you’ve got severe __vaginal itching during pregnancy__ and you have no idea what could have triggered it, you most likely have bacterial vaginosis. This __vaginal infection__ is common __during pregnancy__ and is the result of overgrowth of bacteria, that is naturally present, in the vagina. The shifting hormone levels could cause this overgrowth. __Bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy__ is characterised by symptoms such as:
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- Severe and irritating itching around the vagina
- Discharge that is thin in consistency, and grey or white in colour
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Painful urination.
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Sometimes, the infection goes away by itself. However, in most cases, a course of antibiotics is recommended for treatment. If you have __bacterial vaginosis while pregnant__, it is recommended that you consult your doctor who can prescribe the best treatment plan. 
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<h3 class="charpcos">2. Yeast Infection </h3>
<br>

Experiencing vaginal itching during pregnancy could be a result of yeast infection, another common __vaginal infection during pregnancy__. Its most noticeable symptom is burning and itching in the vagina. The reason why pregnant women are more likely to get this infection is due to increased levels of oestrogen and progesterone, which make a conducive environment for yeast to grow and thrive. Some of the other signs include:
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- Pain in the vagina
- Whiteish-yellow [vaginal discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/the-tell-tale-signs-of-vaginal-discharge-with-yeast-Infection) with the consistency of thick, curdled milk
- Swelling of the vagina accompanied by redness
- Discomfort during intercourse.
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The treatment includes either oral antifungal medicine or a cream. Speak to your doctor if you suspect you have any of the above symptoms.
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<h3 class="charpcos">3. Group B Strep (GBS) </h3>
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A type of bacteria, Group B Strep is naturally found in most people. However, some people develop more serious infections from it while others go unscathed. The reason for this is unclear which makes it difficult to diagnose. However, if you do have these bacteria, it is imperative that you get appropriate treatment as it could be life-threatening to your baby, if passed on to them during childbirth. The signs of this __vaginal infection__, common __during pregnancy__, are very rare. Here is one:
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- Urinary tract infections due to GBS cause painful urination and cloudy urine.
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<h3 class="charpcos">4. Syphilis </h3>
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An STI, syphilis results in sores typically found on the external genitals i.e. in the vagina, anus or rectum. It can also be present on a person’s lips and in the mouth. If you have this __vaginal infection while__ you’re __pregnant__, you must seek medical help immediately as you can pass the infection to your baby. Some of the common symptoms include:
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- Small, hard, painless sores in the genital or vaginal area
- Sores and rashes on the palms of your hands and on the bottoms of your feet accompanied with fever, sore throat, headaches, weight loss and fatigue among others.
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If you have any of the above symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Getting early __treatment__ for __syphilis in pregnancy__ will help protect you and your baby.
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<h3 class="charpcos">5. Trichomoniasis </h3>
<br>

A sexually transmitted infection (STI), trichomoniasis can also cause [vaginal itching during pregnancy](/tips-and-advice-for-women/intimate-hygiene/vaginal-itching-during-pregnancy) but this condition can be easily cured. Its treatment includes a course of oral antibiotics. Some of its symptoms include:
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- Having itching and burning sensation while having intercourse
- [Green discharge or](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/green-discharge-what-does-it-indicate) [yellowish discharge](/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/yellow-discharge-during-pregnancy)
- Discharge that smells foul.


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If you’re looking at something that makes it easier to manage vaginal discharge, [panty liners](/panty-liners) are a convenient option. Try the [ALWAYS Extra Protect Panty liners](/panty-liners/always-extra-protect) to keep you dry and comfortable. They are formulated with an absorbing zone and odour neutralising technology. Offering extra coverage, these liners are reliable, absorb discharge fast and keep you fresh, making ALWAYS liners perfect for protection from vaginal discharge.

Why pregnant women are more susceptible to vaginal infections 

Infections and __vaginal itch__ are common __during pregnancy__. But little did you know that pregnancy can also make these infections more severe. At times, even the mildest infections can lead to serious illness in pregnant women. But what is it that makes women susceptible to __vaginal infections during pregnancy?__
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Changes in hormone levels and immune system function are the primary reasons why you become more vulnerable to infections when you’re pregnant. Let’s look at both causes in detail.
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<h3 class="charpcos">1. Changes in immunity </h3>
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Your immune system is like a fortress that protects your body from every harmful thing – right from bacteria and cancer cells to transplanted organs. However, when you’re pregnant, your immune system changes to protect both you and your baby. There is a delicate balance at play wherein some parts of your immune system are enhanced while others are suppressed. This immunity balance is what prevents any infections from reaching the baby without compromising the health of the mother. 
<br>

This means that your immune system has to work twice as hard during pregnancy since it’s supporting and protecting you and your baby. This strain can make you susceptible to certain infections.
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<h3 class="charpcos">2. Changes in hormones </h3>
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Changes in hormonal levels can also increase your risk of getting infected. Often, these fluctuations in hormone levels affect the urinary tract. 
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As your pregnancy progresses and the uterus expands, there is increased pressure on the bladder. Alongside, the increased production of progesterone relaxes the ureter and bladder muscles. This results in urine remaining in the bladder for too long, which could lead to urinary tract infection. 
<br>

Similarly, the body also increases the production of another hormone called oestrogen. This makes you more likely to get yeast infection. 


<div id="why-pregnant-women-are-more-susceptible-to-vaginal-infections"></div>
<h2> Why pregnant women are more susceptible to vaginal infections </h2> 

How to prevent vaginal infections during pregnancy

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You can help keep __vaginal infections__ at bay during pregnancy with simple, everyday precautions. [Maintaining intimate hygiene](/tips-and-advice-for-women/intimate-hygiene/how-to-care-for-vaginal-discharge-an-intimate-hygiene-guide) can help in the long run by protecting both you and your baby. Here are some tips :
<br>

1.	Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water often, especially after using the bathroom, cooking, or touching raw meat and vegetables, and playing with children.
2.	When cooking any meat, make sure that it is cooked through and well-done. Do not eat undercooked meats such as hot dogs and deli meats. If you do, make sure that they are re-cooked.
3.	Avoid consuming unpasteurised, or raw, dairy products.
4.	Avoid sharing your utensils, cups, and food with other people.
5.	Avoid changing cat litter and stay away from wild or pet rodents.
6.	To reduce the risk of yeast infections, you can eat yogurt often since it is rich in probiotics.
7.	To prevent bacterial vaginosis, avoid douching. It removes some of the bacteria that actually protects your vagina from infection.
8.	Stay well hydrated, and sleep without underwear for better air flow and breathability.
9.	Ensure your vaccination schedule is up to date.
10.	In case you suspect you have any kind of infection or disease, immediately consult your doctor. It is better to get an infection diagnosed and treated earlier to avoid risking your health as well as your baby’s.
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__Takeaway__
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It is normal and okay to have __vaginal infections during pregnancy__. So, if you suspect any of its symptoms, don’t be alarmed. It is important to stay calm and stress free. Speak to your doctor and get the correct treatment. Meanwhile, take preventive measures to avoid the risk of getting infected.
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Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always [Period Calculator](period-calculator)


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<h2> How to prevent vaginal infections during pregnancy? </h2>


__FAQs__

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#ba5cf0">1. What is the most common vaginal infection during pregnancy? </h2>

During pregnancy, you are more susceptible to infections as your immunity function as well as hormone levels change. This makes __vaginal infection__ a common condition __during pregnancy__. Some of these infections include bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, group B Strep (GBS), trichomoniasis, and syphilis.
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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#ba5cf0">2. How do you know if you have bacterial vaginosis while pregnant? </h2>

If you’re experiencing severe __vaginal itching during pregnancy__, the culprit is most likely bacterial vaginosis, a bacterial infection. It is common among women who are pregnant. Some of the signs of __bacterial vaginosis__, especially __while being pregnant__, are: 
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- <h3 class="charpcos"> severe itching around the vagina </h3>
- <h3 class="charpcos"> discharge that is thin in consistency </h3>
- <h3 class="charpcos"> grey or white discharge </h3>
- <h3 class="charpcos"> foul-smelling discharge </h3>
- <h3 class="charpcos"> painful urination. </h3>
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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#ba5cf0"> 3. What is the best treatment for vaginal infection during pregnancy? </h2>

The treat for any __vaginal infection__ that you get __during pregnancy__ would depend on the type of infection. In most cases, a course of antibiotics or antifungal oral medicines are effective. Whatever your treatment plans, you must always consult your doctor before you take any medication.


Disclaimer

__Disclaimer:__
<br>

Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; [Always pads prioritize safety](/about-us/inside-always-pads-safe), protection and comfort of its consumers.

Vaginal Infection During Pregnancy: Types and Causes 

Wondering whether vaginal itch during pregnancy is normal? When pregnant, the body goes through many hormonal changes which could lead to infections. In this article, learn all about vaginal infections during pregnancy - the different types, causes and measure for prevention.


All you need to know about Common Vaginal Infections during Pregnancy | ALWAYS <Country_Name> 

Wondering whether vaginal itch during pregnancy is normal? When pregnant, the body goes through many hormonal changes which could lead to infections. In this article, learn all about vaginal infections during pregnancy

All you need to know about Common Vaginal Infections during Pregnancy | ALWAYS <Country_Name>