Yeast infections are a common complaint of pregnancy. Rapidly fluctuating hormones, particularly estrogen, can foster the growth of yeast. Symptoms include an intense itch, a burning sensation and creamy, white discharge. While yeast infections are uncomfortable for the mother, they cannot harm her baby. Nonetheless, a woman should report any symptoms of a yeast infection to her doctor or midwife immediately.
Caveat
Midwifery Today says the key to successful treatment of a yeast infection is early intervention. If a pregnant woman seeks help as soon as she feels an itch, the infection will go away much quicker than if she waits until she sees heavy discharge.
Environmental Factors
The harsh chemicals, additives and artificial fragrances of most commercial brands of household and personal care products can upset the body's pH in favor of more acid. This fosters the growth of yeast and possibly leads to a yeast infection. Natural products such as vinegar, baking soda and borax are effective green alternatives.
Garlic
Garlic has both antibacterial and antiviral properties and may successfully treat a yeast infection. If the infection is still in its early stages, Midwifery Today advises pregnant women to place a peeled, whole clove of garlic in their vaginas nightly until symptoms improve. If the infection is not caught until much later, pregnant women may still use garlic as treatment, but they should cut the clove in half and use both halves at once. Doing so increases the amount of garlic absorbed by the skin.
Supplements
Alternative health magazine Natural Solutions recommends herbal supplements to combat yeast infections. Pau d'arco is derived from a tree. Caprylic acid is a fatty acid with detoxifying properties. Berberine comes from Oregon grape root. Like garlic, these supplements possess antiviral and antifungal properties. Tea tree oil extract, lavender extract, echinacea and goldenseal may also effectively treat a yeast infection. Alternative supplements should not be taken independently, however. Pregnant women seeking this treatment for a yeast infection should not only talk to their birth professionals but also a licensed naturopath.
Probiotics, sometimes referred to as acidophilus supplements, prevent and fight yeast infections by increasing the number of good bacteria present in the gut. While probiotics are present in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir and kimchi, pregnant women, especially those suffering from a yeast infection, should consider a supplement that provides at least 1 billion live cultures.
Alkalinize the Diet
Yeast thrives on acidic food and drink such as white flour, refined sugar, meat, dairy, caffeine, soda and alcohol. An alkaline diet rich in unprocessed, whole foods is best for treating a yeast infection. Alkaline foods include nuts, seeds, most vegetables and legumes. A squeeze of lemon or lime helps alkalinize water.
