The chances of yeast infections occurring during pregnancy are more than in any other period during a woman's life. Yeast infections are frequent especially in a pregnant woman's second trimester. There is a sudden increase in the amount of discharge of a white, thin, odd smelling liquid which might signal a yeast infection. It may also be accompanied by itching, irritation, and redness in the vagina. Yeast infections per se have no detrimental effects on pregnancy, but are often accompanied by significant amount of discomforts for a woman.

A vaginal yeast infection occurs due to the imbalance between the normal acid levels in the vagina and the amount of yeast present. There is overgrowth of yeast resulting in an uncomfortable condition known as yeast infection.

A pregnant woman's body goes through numerous hormonal changes. It becomes tough for the body to keep pace with the various chemical changes that take place within the vaginal environment. The secretions of the vagina contain more sugars which feeds the yeast. This results in overgrowth of yeast resulting in an imbalance within the vagina.

Another reason for attack by Candida Albicans(bacterial attack causing yeast infection) during pregnancy is a weak immunity system of a woman which is quite normal during this period. The immune system is not strong enough to fight with the Albicans resulting in the yeast infection. In fact yeast infections are common to 75% women during their pregnancy.

• A moist and warm environment precipitates the growth of Albicans. Try to prevent generating excessive heat inside your body by avoiding going out in the sun. Your pH levels should not rise to a great extent.
• You should maintain bathroom hygiene at any cost. Cleansing and wiping the vaginal region should be done properly to leave no trace of moisture. Always wear cotton panties as the fabric is soft and keeps the region dry and airy.
• Include a diet full of balanced nutrients. Reduce on your sugar intake and add enough leafy, green vegetables to your diet. Do not have over - the - counter drugs without consulting your doctor first.
• Another vital thing is you should take care to continue the treatment procedures as directed by your doctor without fail. Do not give up half way as this might aggravate the problem. Try not to stress yourself out by excessive worrying.
• You may also consider certain natural and homely remedies for curing the yeast infection that are relatively free from side effects. These homely solutions also have long term effects. Application of yogurt and use of garlic tampons can bring effective results. However before resorting to these home treatments it is again advisable to call on your doctor and ask for his guidance regarding these treatments.
• Do not indulge in sexual intercourse during the course of treatment as the chances of inflaming the skin and spreading the infection is higher.
• Do not give in to junk food, alcohol, and stress. Do avoid tight clothing to lessen the discomforts. You may also consider washing your underwear and again boiling it for about five minutes. This will kill all bacteria residing on your under garment.
• Do not use fragrant feminine sprays, or deodorant, perfumed or colored toilet tissue and bubble bath.
• You may also increase your intake of yogurt that contains "lactobacillus acidophilus" helpful to fight against yeast infections.
• Drink plenty of water to flush out sugar thus reducing the chances of further breeding of yeast.
• Take enough rest to help your body cope up with the infection.

At a medical clinic or a doctor's office, a clinician generally uses a simple swab to collect vaginal discharge or secretions. This sample is then examined through a microscope. A physician is able to diagnose a yeast infection through a simple vaginal examination. However in exceptional situations, the culture is sent to a laboratory.

When a woman suffers from a yeast infection during her pregnancy, she is generally prescribed just the suppositories and vaginal creams. Oral medications are usually considered unsafe when a woman is pregnant or lactating. About 10 - 14 days are required for the infection to completely go away. When the infection clears up and all sores are healed, it is useful to apply a drying powder, which is starch free or Nystatin to avoid a relapse of the infection.

If a yeast infection is present when you are undergoing labor, there are chances that a newborn may develop thrush, which is a yeast infection of the mouth. However this is not a serious condition and is easily treatable. Yeast infections are very common during pregnancy and timely intervention and treatment should help ease your discomforts.