Thrush in pregnancy: Causes & home treatments

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

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Overview

Vaginal thrush is a common yeast infection that many women experience during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, particularly higher oestrogen levels, can alter the vaginal environment and promote Candida overgrowth, a form of yeast that naturally exists in the body. Although thrush is typically not hazardous to your infant, it may cause unpleasant symptoms that disrupt your everyday life. Pregnant women are more likely to get vaginal thrush because high oestrogen levels increase Candida yeast.

What is vaginal thrush?

Vaginal thrush is a common fungal infection caused by an excess of Candida yeast, primarily Candida albicans. Small levels of this yeast are generally present in the vagina without causing problems, but during pregnancy, it may grow and cause discomfort.

Key facts:

• An excess of Candida yeast causes vaginal thrush.
• It most typically affects women during pregnancy.
• It is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
• Sexual activity may exacerbate irritation or pain, but it is not the root cause.
• Thrush is often managed with pregnancy-safe antifungal medications if deemed clinically appropriate by a doctor or medical practitioner.

Why is thrush more common during pregnancy?

Pregnancy causes various changes that promote Candida yeast growth. These changes are normal during pregnancy but may increase the risk of developing thrush. Common contributing factors include:

• Hormonal changes: Higher oestrogen levels promote yeast growth.
• Increased vaginal glycogen: Extra glycogen serves as a feeding supply for Candida.
• Changes in vaginal pH: Pregnancy affects the vaginal environment, increasing the likelihood of yeast formation.
• Natural immune system changes: Pregnancy alters the immune response, decreasing the body's ability to control yeast growth.
• Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can kill beneficial microorganisms that prevent yeast overgrowth.
• Diabetes or gestational diabetes: Higher blood sugar levels can increase the risk of recurrent thrush.

Common symptoms of thrush during pregnancy

Symptoms can range from minor irritation to severe pain and may include:

• Severe vaginal itching.
• Burning or pain around the vagina and vulva.
• Thick white discharge with a cottage cheese-like appearance.
• Redness and swelling in the vulva.
• Pain or burning during urination.
• Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.

If you develop an unusual discharge with a strong odour, a green or yellow colour, fever, or pelvic pain, it may be a sign of an underlying condition. A medical assessment is recommended. If you experience severe, worsening, or life-threatening symptoms, such as high fever or intense pelvic pain, call 000 immediately or attend your nearest Emergency Department (ED).

Could it be something else?

Several vaginal conditions can cause symptoms similar to thrush. An accurate diagnosis is important, particularly during pregnancy.

Condition	Typical symptoms
Vaginal thrush	Intense itching, burning, thick white discharge, redness and swelling
Bacterial vaginosis	Thin grey or white discharge with a fishy odour, usually with little itching
Urinary tract infection (UTI)	Burning during urination, frequent urination, lower abdominal discomfort
Sexually transmitted infection (STI)	Unusual discharge, pelvic pain, bleeding after sex, pain during urination (symptoms vary)
Contact dermatitis or irritation	Itching, redness, burning after exposure to soaps, detergents or hygiene products

Pregnancy-safe home care measures

Home treatments can alleviate discomfort and irritation, but they will not cure the yeast infection. Medical management is essential to eliminate candida infection.

• Keep your genital region clean and dry: Gently wash the external genital area with warm water and pat it completely dry, as a moist environment encourages yeast growth.
• Wear loose-fitting cotton underpants: Cotton underwear promotes ventilation and keeps the area dry. Avoid wearing tight clothes, which trap heat and moisture.
• Avoid using scented soaps, bubble baths, and feminine hygiene products: Perfumed items can irritate delicate skin and upset the normal balance of germs and yeast in the vagina. Use mild, fragrance-free products instead.
• Change out of wet clothing promptly: Remove wet swimsuits or workout clothes as soon as possible to reduce prolonged moisture exposure.
• Avoid unnecessary douching: Douching can disrupt the usual vaginal environment, causing discomfort. It is not advised during pregnancy.
• Maintain appropriate blood sugar control: If you have diabetes or gestational diabetes, following your healthcare provider's blood sugar management instructions may help minimise your risk of recurrent thrush.

Mandatory Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. You should consult a doctor or medical practitioner before attempting home remedies to ensure they are safe for your specific condition. Home care measures can help support the management of discomfort and irritation. Professional clinical review is recommended to help manage the underlying cause.

Medical management during pregnancy

If thrush is confirmed, your doctor will recommend a treatment that is considered safe during pregnancy. Treatment helps relieve symptoms and reduces the risk of persistent or recurring infections.

Clinical Management Options	Pregnancy consideration
Topical antifungal medications (if clinically appropriate).	Often recommended as the first-line treatment during pregnancy when used as directed by a healthcare professional
Oral medications (only if specifically advised by a medical practitioner as many are unsuitable during pregnancy)	Not routinely recommended during pregnancy unless specifically advised by a doctor, because some medicines may not be suitable
Symptoms review after treatment	Follow up with your doctor if symptoms do not improve or return soon after treatment
Further assessment	May be required if symptoms are recurrent, severe, or another condition is suspected

Can thrush affect your baby?

Vaginal thrush during pregnancy is usually harmless to the growing baby. However, if the infection occurs before vaginal delivery, your infant may be exposed to Candida and develop oral thrush, a fungal infection that causes white spots inside the mouth. Oral thrush is generally treatable and is not usually serious. Treating vaginal thrush before delivery can help reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to your baby during birth.

When should you see a doctor?

Although thrush is common during pregnancy, it’s important to seek medical advice to confirm the diagnosis and ensure you receive proper treatment. See a doctor if:

• This is your first case of thrush while pregnant.
• Your symptoms are serious and cause major discomfort.
• Symptoms often recur following therapy.
• Treatment isn't helping your symptoms.
• You experience strange vaginal discharge or a strong odour.
• You have a fever or are experiencing pelvic discomfort.
• You are unsure whether your symptoms are caused by thrush or another condition.

Note: Telehealth may not be suitable for every condition. Some symptoms, such as persistent fever or severe pain, require an in-person assessment, physical examination, or diagnostic testing."

Can telehealth help?

Telehealth is a convenient option for appropriate healthcare needs during pregnancy. A doctor or medical practitioner can review your symptoms to help determine the likely cause. Some health concerns may require an in-person assessment, physical examination, or testing. Telehealth may assist with:

• Assessing symptoms of vaginal discomfort.
• Providing advice on pregnancy-safe management.
• Prescribing medications where clinically appropriate.
• Advising when an in-person examination is necessary

How Hola Health can help

If you experience thrush symptoms during pregnancy, Hola Health provides easy access to AHPRA-registered doctors via secure telehealth consultations. Doctors can evaluate your vaginal symptoms and recommend pregnancy-safe management options when clinically indicated. If your symptoms persist, return, or require further investigations, an online doctor can guide you on the next steps or refer you to a specialist.

Key takeaways

• Thrush is common during pregnancy because hormonal changes encourage the growth of Candida yeast.
• Common symptoms include vaginal itching, burning, soreness, and thick white discharge.
• Home care measures can help relieve discomfort but usually do not treat the infection.
• Always seek medical advice before using any medications, including over-the-counter treatments.
• A doctor should assess persistent, recurrent, or unusual symptoms to rule out other conditions and ensure appropriate treatment.

FAQs

Is thrush common during pregnancy?

Yes. Vaginal thrush is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, notably higher oestrogen levels, which promote the development of Candida yeast.

What causes thrush during pregnancy?

An overgrowth of Candida yeast causes thrush. Pregnancy-related hormonal changes, increased vaginal glycogen, changes in vaginal pH, and diabetes or gestational diabetes can all heighten the risk.

Can thrush harm my baby?

Thrush seldom harms your growing baby during pregnancy. However, if the infection occurs before a vaginal birth, your infant may get oral thrush after delivery, which is usually curable.

What home remedies may help relieve thrush during pregnancy?

Keeping the genital area clean and dry, wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear, avoiding scented items, changing out of wet clothes as soon as possible, and maintaining good blood sugar levels as directed may help alleviate pain. These procedures may not resolve the underlying cause; thus, medical attention is often needed.

Which management are considered safe for thrush during pregnancy?

Topical antifungal creams are commonly recommended during pregnancy. Do not take oral antifungal medications during pregnancy without consulting a doctor or pharmacist, as some can cause complications.

When should I visit a doctor for thrush during pregnancy?

You should consult a doctor if it is your first episode of thrush during pregnancy, or if the symptoms are severe.

Can an online doctor help diagnose and treat thrush during pregnancy?

Yes. An online doctor may review your symptoms, recommend pregnancy-safe manage options, prescribe medications where clinically appropriate, and advise whether an in-person assessment is needed.

How can I lessen my chances of developing thrush again during pregnancy?

You may be able to lower your risk by wearing breathable cotton underwear and avoiding scented feminine hygiene products. Change out of damp clothing as soon as possible. If you have diabetes or gestational diabetes, aim to keep your blood sugar levels normal. Only use antibiotics as directed by your doctor. If you have recurring thrush, consult with your doctor to determine any underlying causes.