Yeast Infection and Effects on Conception

What Causes Yeast Infection?

From a medical perspective, it is not entirely clear what makes some women more prone to vaginal yeast infections, also known as Candida or thrush. However, it is apparent that it affects more women in their 30s and 40s. Diabetes is one medical condition that can alter a woman’s immune system, increasing the likelihood of the problem. Other potential triggers are:

• Wearing tight fitting clothes – this inhibits ventilation
• Antibiotics – both oral and vaginal antibiotics are well-known triggers of yeast infections
• Using perfumed products – it is best to avoid using such products when cleansing the vaginal area as they can cause irritation and exacerbate the risk of Candida
• Chemotherapy – this has been linked to episodes of Candida

Although some women worry that feminine products such as sanitary pads and tampons can increase the risk of yeast infection, there is little evidence to support this.

Symptoms of Vaginal Yeast Infection

For women who are concerned about yeast infection and effects on conception, it may be useful to know what to look out for in the event of a vaginal yeast infection. Typical symptoms include:

• Incessant itching around the vagina and vulva
• Soreness, often exacerbated by the itching
• White vaginal discharge that looks similar to cottage cheese
• Discomfort during or after intercourse or when passing urine

These symptoms should not, however, be confused with a potential sexually transmitted infection such as Chlamydia. In all suspected cases of vaginal yeast infection, it is advisable to get the symptoms checked out.

Yeast Infection and Effects on Conception: Don’t Panic

When trying to conceive, many women are extremely aware of avoiding physical or environmental problems that may potentially hinder attempts to get pregnant. Often, they worry about urine infections, sexually transmitted infections, and yeast infections.

Fortuntely, there is no medical evidence to suggest a strong link between having a yeast infection and reducing the chances of conceiving. However, women who endure the discomfort that a yeast infection brings may not want to have intercourse while yeast infection is present.

Vaginal yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter remedies that are very effective. If symptoms persist over 14 days despite treatment, it is certainly advisable to consult a physician, especially since it may be upsetting to refrain from intercourse during their ‘baby making schedule.’

Some experts suggest that treatments for Candida, which involve the application of cream or a pessary directly into the vagina, may affect the pH of the vaginal canal and can also affect the transportation of sperm along the cervix. Women who are concerned by this may wish to delay treatment until after the post-ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle so that intercourse can continue without delay.

In summary, it is an individual decision whether or not to continue conception attempts when a vaginal yeast infection is present. Since most infections are cleared up quickly and easily, it may be just as well to refrain from serious attempts to conceive.