Especially during pregnancy, women become more susceptible to vaginal infections. Therefore, the vagina requires special care during this period.
Many changes are seen in the body of women during pregnancy. From body weight to skin and hair related problems, even many changes occur in the vagina. Especially during pregnancy, women become more sensitive to vaginal infections. Therefore, the vagina needs special care during this time. Even a small negligence on the part of women can make them a victim of serious vaginal infection.
Health Shots spoke to Aastha Dayal, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram to understand this topic in more detail. The doctor explained the causes of vaginal sensitivity during pregnancy and gave some important tips for vaginal care. If you are pregnant, or thinking of conceiving, then definitely read this article.
Know why vaginal infection susceptibility increases in women during pregnancy
According to Dr Aastha Dayal, “Women undergo several physiological changes during pregnancy, making them more susceptible to vaginal infections. The hormonal balance changes during pregnancy, resulting in increased levels of progesterone and estrogen, which affects the normal vaginal flora. This change in hormones promotes the growth of yeast and other pathogens, increasing the risk of diseases like candidiasis or yeast infection.
“Also, during pregnancy, an increase in vaginal discharge creates a moist environment around the vagina, which is conducive to yeast and other bacterial growth. The vagina may become infected more frequently. Immunity also changes to support the growing fetus, which may affect the body’s ability to fight infection.”
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“Pregnancy makes the urge to pass urine more frequent, so women often hold it in, which can increase the risk of UTIs spreading to the vagina. Due to the pressure of the developing uterus on the bladder, women may experience urinary stasis when they are unable to empty their bladder completely, increasing their risk of vaginal infections, including UTIs.”
To prevent vaginal infection during pregnancy, take special care of these things
According to Dr Aastha Dayal, pregnancy-related vaginal infections can be avoided by following these tips:
1. Maintain hygiene
To prevent infections during pregnancy, it is important to keep the intimate area completely clean. Use water and mild, fragrance-free soap to clean it. Douching should be avoided as it can disturb the normal balance of vaginal flora.
2. Keep the pubic area dry
Change out of damp clothes, such as swimsuits or sweaty workout attire, immediately to avoid creating a moist environment in the vagina, which promotes the growth of bacteria and yeast. Also, after cleaning the vagina with water after the bathroom, dry it thoroughly with a tissue.
3. Choose the right wiping method
To prevent bacteria from passing from the anal area to the vagina, always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Be sure to clean the anal area with water once a day.
4. Maintain Hydration
Body toxins can also cause infections at times, so keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water during pregnancy to flush them out and maintain overall health.
5. Clean up vaginal discharge
If you are having excessive discharge during pregnancy, first of all consult a doctor and get the condition checked. If it is normal, then you should not leave it on the panty, otherwise it keeps the pubic area moist. In such a situation, clean it from time to time and try to keep the vagina dry.
6. Maintain blood sugar level
There can be frequent fluctuations in blood sugar levels during pregnancy, which increases the risk of vaginal infection. In such a situation, it is important to check blood sugar regularly. If it remains unbalanced, then follow the necessary tips to keep it regular.
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