Pregnancy is a time when you are prone to a number of infections of the urinary tract and vaginal canal. This is because the uterus exerts pressure on the vagina and urinary bladder, causing urine to get accumulated inside and resultant cultivation of bacteria. Vaginal itchiness is a very common problem among pregnant women.
Any infection during pregnancy need to be taken seriously as it can directly or indirectly affect the foetus. Vaginal itchiness can be caused due to several factors like pH imbalance, urinary tract infection, bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections or multiplication of bacteria inside the vaginal canal. Before visiting a doctor, here are few things that you can do to naturally suppress the vagina itching. If itching does not subside in a couple of days, seek medical help.
Ways To Treat Vaginal Itching In Pregnancy
1. Fluids
Drinking plenty of water or other fluids will help in encouraging urination and removal of the bacterial action that is causing the vaginal itching. At least 2 litres of water is a must. You may also take plenty of fruit juices, especially juices that are high in vitamin C. Fresh cranberry juice is particularly helpful in treating vaginal and urinary tract infections during pregnancy.
2. pH Test
A vaginal pH test can be undertaken at home itself. If the test result turns out to be acidic, you might have to check into a clinic to consult a doctor as acidic environments encourage bacterial growth. If the result is basic, then the vaginal itching could be due to yeast infection which is very common during pregnancy.
Yeast infections can be treated through the use of yoghurt. Take a cup of yoghurt every day and apply yoghurt inside and outside the vagina to kill the bacterial action. However, if the itching does not subside with these natural solutions, make sure to visit a doctor.
3. Urinary Infections
Urinary infections are mostly caused due to E-coli and are very common as well during pregnancy. Mild cases of urinary infections that cause vaginal itching can be treated with yoghurt. Burning, itching and pain while urination along with fever and chills are the symptoms of urinary tract infection. High doses of vitamin C too will help in expelling the bad bacteria that is causing the bladder infection. However, if the infection does not go away, it is important to take safe antibiotic medications to stop the infection. Urinary infections can raise your blood pressure during pregnancy and can lead to pre term delivery as well.
Your gynaecologist will be able to prescribe a safe antibiotic course during pregnancy. Drinking plenty of water at this time is very important for flushing out the toxic effects of the medication and also for flushing out the bacteria causing vaginal itching.
Infections of the reproductive organs during pregnancy must be treated with adequate care, failing which can even lead to a miscarriage or a pre term deliver. It helps to remain hygienic all throughout your pregnancy days. Avoid wearing tight and synthetic undergarments that can pack moisture and cause yeast and bacterial growth in the vaginal canal.
