Vaginal infections are common during pregnancy. Have a look at the causes behind Monilial Vaginitis, its symptoms and treatment options.Monilial vaginitis is a common problem especially among the pregnant women. This is a condition that becomes more acute in diabetic conditions during pregnancy. Here we shall take a closer look at this vaginal infection, so that you have a better idea about it. Knowing about the symptoms, causes and treatment options shall prepare you better for the disease. Please read along for more information.
Common Concerns Related to Vaginal Infections
Let us take a look at the common concerns related to vaginal infection during pregnancy.
I am getting a white discharge. Do I have an infection?
This is known as leucorrhoea and in a normal effect of
pregnancy. The discharge will increase until delivery, so it is advisable to wear a sanitary pad during the last few months. Keep your genitals clean and dry and avoid tight clothing, deodorants, soaps, bubble baths and perfumes. Do not douche. If the discharge turns yellowish, greenish or very thick, notify your doctor immediately.
What is meant by vaginitis, and what are its symptoms?
Vaginitis is a
vaginal infection that is common in pregnancy. This problem is sometimes also called yeast infection because it is caused by a type of yeast called "Monila". Its symptoms are itching, burning, and a vaginal discharge (like white cottage cheese).
Could my having vaginitis be harmful to the baby?
Yes. "Monila" in the vagina can be picked up by the baby during birth and affect its mouth, producing a condition called "thrush" (in the form of a white coating on the baby's mouth and tongue).
Causes Behind Monilial Vaginitis
Candida albicans present in vagina is known to cause Monilial Vaginitis. You can get the infection when the candida overgrows and consequently upsets the chemical balance of your vagina.
Two main factors are known to increase your chances of getting the infection.
When acidity or glycogen in your vagina increases or when your immune strength reduces during pregnancy. Since your immune strength reduces in pregnancy, your chances of getting this infection increase further.
Again, your chances of getting the infection are high when you are on antibiotics. Apart from this, if you are taking multivitamins, your chances of getting the infection increase again.
Common Symptoms of Monilial Vaginitis
Now that you are aware of the causes behind this infection, we shall take a look at the symptoms associated that you should be aware of. Take a look, so that you can easily identify the moment you experience the symptoms mentioned below.
Itching of the vulva is one of the primary symptoms of vaginal infection. Apart from this, you may also experience pain or a burning sensation inside. These symptoms shall get more acute when you pass urine. Since your
urge to urinate increases in pregnancy, it might get very difficult for you to cope with the pain and burning sensations. You may find the mucus membrane in your vagina getting red after wiping it.
Chances of suffering from leucorrhoea also increase when you suffer from the infection. However cuticular changes and swelling surrounding vulva may tend to vary from one pregnant woman to the other. You may find erosions like eczema that may be very similar to sub-acute eczema or acute eczema. While it generally is limited to the vulva, it may also expand to the anus, perineum, and reproductive plica and spread near the thighs and in other parts of your skin as well.
According to reports, around 30% of the pregnant women tend to suffer from this infection and the rest do not have any clinical manifestation.
Diagnosis for Vaginal Infection
Diagnosis for is done in three ways. Here we shall take a closer look.
Method 1In the first stage, your vaginal discharge is collected on a glass sheet. Drop of potassium hydroxide or solution of sodium chloride is poured on the glass and covered. It is then heated in appropriate temperature and tested under microscope. Epithelial cells, white blood cells and red blood cells shall disappear immediately and the mould shall be visible. However, when it comes to accuracy of the method, you can expect 60% accurate results from the tests.
Method 2In the second method, the discharge on the glass is done by gram stain. The mould is recognised easily under the microscope. This method has an accuracy of 80%.
Method 3In the 3rd diagnosis method the enzyme bacteria culture is considered highly reliable. Diagnosis of the disease becomes easier when mould is cultivated.
So, in case you are bothered about vaginal infection in pregnancy, you can always talk to your doctor about it. He or she shall diagnose you to carry on with suitable treatment options. While you may be suggested creams, you may be suggested antibiotics in extreme cases. However, you will be advised to discontinue any antibiotics after a short while in pregnancy.
Why is Vaginitis common in pregnancy? How to prevent Vaginitis? What are treatment options for vaginal infection during pregnancy? Discuss here. 
