Health Info > Womens Health and Pregnancy Published on : January 15, 2025

Thrush in pregnancy: Causes & home treatments

Name: Hola Health
Address: Australia
Telephone: +611300014652
Price range: $

Written by the editorial staff writer at Hola.
Medically reviewed by Dr Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist.

Thrush, a widespread fungal infection caused by Candida albicans, can affect women at any time, but it is twice as common in pregnant women compared to those who are not pregnant. This infection mainly targets the vaginal area, causing symptoms like itching, irritation, a burning sensation, and unusual discharge. Understanding the causes of thrush and exploring safe treatment options, including consulting healthcare providers, is essential for ensuring maternal comfort and health during pregnancy.

What is a thrush infection?

Thrush is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans. This yeast is naturally found in various parts of the body, such as the mouth, throat, digestive tract, and vagina. When the body’s microbial balance is disrupted, Candida can grow excessively, causing an infection. Thrush is more common in pregnant women due to hormonal changes, as increased oestrogen levels heighten the chances of developing it by creating an environment conducive to yeast overgrowth. Candida may also thrive after treatment with antibiotics, or in women with elevated blood sugar levels, particularly those with diabetes as these can disrupt the body’s natural microbial balance, increasing susceptibility to thrush

Also read: How to avoid gestational diabetes? Steps for healthy pregnancy

What does thrush look like?

Thrush manifests differently depending on the part of the body affected:

Oral thrush: It causes white, creamy patches on the tongue, gums, inside the cheeks, or roof of the mouth. The impacted areas may appear red or swollen beneath the white coating. Additionally, there may be discomfort, trouble swallowing, or a cottony sensation in the mouth.
Vaginal thrush: There is a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge from the vagina accompanied by swelling and itching around the vaginal opening. The discharge might also cause irritation or a burning sensation while urinating or sexual activity.
Skin thrush: The skin may develop red inflamed rashes with a shiny or damp appearance, particularly in areas like the armpits, groin, or under the breasts. The rash may have small red spots or blisters on the edges.

Thrush can cause discomfort or pain in all cases, but its appearance varies according to the area impacted.

Causes

Several factors contribute to the development of thrush in pregnancy:

Hormonal changes: Increased oestrogen levels boost glycogen in the vaginal cells, providing Candida with a food source. Consequently, yeast grows and multiplies, resulting in an infection.
Increased vaginal discharge: Pregnancy leads to increased vaginal discharge, creating a moist environment that can foster fungal infections.
Immune system changes: Pregnancy leads to mild weakening of the immune system to prevent rejection of the fetus. This can make pregnant women more prone to infections, including yeast infections.
Uncontrolled diabetes: Women with elevated blood sugar levels are more likely to develop yeast infections due to the excess glucose in the vaginal area, which feeds Candida.
Antibiotic use: If a pregnant woman is prescribed antibiotics for a different condition, these medications can disturb the balance of healthy bacteria in the body, promoting the overgrowth of Candida.

Symptoms

The symptoms of thrush during pregnancy are similar to those seen in women who are not pregnant and may include:

Pain or discomfort during urination or sexual activity
Itching or irritation in the vaginal area
Burning sensations while urinating or intercourse
Redness or swelling of the vaginal tissues
Thick, white, creamy discharge resembling cottage cheese
Splits in the skin of the vulva

Are there any issues in pregnancy?

Thrush, a prevalent yeast infection attributed to the fungus Candida albicans, may arise during pregnancy because of hormonal fluctuations that modify the vaginal environment. Although this condition is typically not hazardous, untreated or severe cases can lead to discomfort, secondary infections, or, in rare cases, complications and may necessitate medical intervention. The following points are essential for understanding this condition:

Discomfort: Individuals may experience symptoms such as itching, soreness, and a discharge resembling white cottage cheese, which can result in considerable discomfort.
Risk of transmission: If left untreated, there is a minimal risk of transferring the yeast infection to the newborn during vaginal delivery, potentially resulting in oral thrush.
Recurrent infections: The physiological changes associated with pregnancy may render certain individuals susceptible to repeated episodes of thrush, which can be troublesome and may require continuous management.
Complications: Although infrequent, severe or untreated infections can lead to secondary infections or complications in specific circumstances.

Also read: Discomfort In Lower Abdomen In Pregnancy: Causes

Will having vaginal thrush affect the baby?

Vaginal thrush during pregnancy is not typically harmful to the baby, but there are some points to consider:

During pregnancy: The presence of thrush during pregnancy does not exert a direct influence on the developing fetus. The infection remains localised to the vaginal area and typically does not progress to the uterus, nor does it affect the growth and development of the baby.
During delivery: In cases where vaginal thrush is present at the time of delivery, there exists a risk of transmission of the yeast (Candida) to the newborn. Such transmission may result in oral thrush, which manifests as a white, patchy fungal infection in the infant's mouth. In rare scenarios, it may also lead to the development of diaper rash. Oral thrush in neonates is generally mild and can be effectively treated with antifungal medication.
Considerations for breastfeeding: If the infant develops oral thrush while being breastfed, there is a possibility of the infection transferring to the mother’s nipples, resulting in discomfort and requiring treatment for both the mother and the infant.

Home treatments

If you prefer to try home remedies for managing vaginal thrush during pregnancy, these options may help alleviate symptoms:

Probiotics: The use of probiotics may assist in restoring the natural equilibrium of bacteria and yeast within the body. Consuming yogurt that contains live cultures or utilising a probiotic supplement may contribute to the maintenance of healthy vaginal flora. For optimal results, it is advisable to select probiotics that contain species of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, which have been studied for vaginal health.
Coconut oil: Coconut oil possesses natural antifungal properties and may alleviate symptoms such as itching and irritation. A small amount can be applied directly to the affected area to provide soothing relief.
Apple cider vinegar: Avoid using apple cider vinegar directly or as a rise, as improper dilution can irritiate sensitive tissues. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Baking soda: Baking soda can assist in restoring pH balance and mitigating discomfort. Incorporating 1-2 tablespoons into a warm bath for a soaking period of 10-15 minutes is a safe and calming method for the skin.
Garlic: Garlic is recognised for its antifungal properties and may be included in one’s diet to bolster the body’s natural defences. However, it is advised against the direct insertion of garlic into the vagina, as this may lead to irritation or allergic reactions.
Hygiene maintenance: The maintenance of good hygiene practices is vital in preventing the exacerbation of thrush. It is recommended to wear loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear to minimise moisture retention and to refrain from using scented soaps, bubble baths, or douches, which can disrupt the natural balance.
Hydration: Adequate hydration through the consumption of water is essential for maintaining overall health and enhancing the body’s capacity to eliminate toxins.

When to consult a doctor?

Consultation with a medical professional is recommended if symptoms of thrush persist despite the implementation of home treatments, if there is a deterioration in condition over time, or if the infection recurs consistently. Symptoms that warrant evaluation include significant itching, burning sensations, swelling, or abnormal discharge that fails to improve.

In the case of pregnancy, it is imperative to consult a healthcare provider before initiating any over-the-counter treatments to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing foetus. Additionally, thrush occurring close to the time of delivery may necessitate specialised medical attention to mitigate the risk of transmission during the birthing process. Timely medical intervention can facilitate effective treatment and alleviate any discomfort experienced.

How can telehealth appointments help?

Telehealth appointments present an efficient means of addressing symptoms associated with thrush without the necessity of a physical clinic visit, which is especially beneficial during pregnancy. Through a virtual consultation with an online doctor, a healthcare provider can assess the symptoms, confirm the diagnosis, and suggest safe treatment options.

This method not only conserves time but also minimises the risk of exposure to potential infections, rendering it particularly suitable for expectant mothers. Furthermore, doctors are equipped to offer advice on managing discomfort at home, strategies for preventing recurrence, and the safe use of over-the-counter medications.

In situations deemed necessary, instant scripts or a doctor’s certificate may be transmitted directly to the designated pharmacy. Telehealth facilitates the delivery of prompt and professional medical guidance while allowing individuals to remain in the comfort of their homes, thereby serving as a practical alternative for managing non-emergency health issues such as thrush. While telehealth appointments are convenient, some cases may require an in-person examination to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of symptoms.

Hola Health offers a comprehensive range of telehealth services designed to enhance healthcare accessibility in Australia. Their services include:

Instant consult: Patients can consult with Australian registered medical practitioners 24/7 via video calls, often within 15 minutes.
Medical Certificates: Users can obtain valid medical certificates for work, school, or carer responsibilities online, with approval from accredited practitioners typically within 15 minutes. Whether it is for the same day or multi day medical certificate, an AHPRA-registered health practitioner can help you with a quick doctor’s note.
Online Prescriptions: Patients can receive online prescriptions and have medications delivered directly to their homes, often within two hours.
Referrals: Hola Health facilitates referrals to specialists as needed during consultations.
COVID Antivirals: The service provides access to COVID-19 antiviral medications through online consultations.
Mental Health Care Plans: Patients can receive tailored mental health care plans that is bulk billing from qualified GPs as part of their telehealth services.

In conclusion, thrush during pregnancy is common but can be treated. Recognising its causes and symptoms is vital for effective management. While home remedies may provide relief, consulting a healthcare professional guarantees proper diagnosis and treatment. Practising good hygiene and a nutritious diet can help prevent reoccurrence and foster a healthy pregnancy.

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