Most women are likely to get a yeast infection sometime in their lifetime. Many factors like birth control pills, menstruation, pregnancy, tight clothing can trigger yeast infections in women. Whenever women hear that they have a yeast infection, the first thing they want to know is if it can affect their chances of conception.
A yeast infection may not directly affect the fertility of a woman. However, the discomfort and itchiness caused by yeast infections may dissuade a woman from indulging in intercourse, thereby influencing her odds of getting pregnant. The problem of a yeast infection can be easily treated and may resolve in a week’s time or so.
Yeast infection or candidiasis commonly occurs in women. A vagina usually has yeast cells and bacteria. The candida fungus is a microorganism which is naturally present in the vagina. Lactobacillus (good bacteria) is responsible for keeping a check on its growth. But in case of an imbalance, the yeast cells may start multiplying leading to an infection. Candida albicans, in particular, is a type of yeast that produces most yeast infections.
Yeast infections can result in intense itching, irritation, and swelling. A clumpy, whitish-grey vaginal discharge is another one of its symptoms. Factors like antibiotics, uncontrolled diabetes, poor immune system, pregnancy, hormonal imbalance, or stress can activate a yeast infection.
Women trying to conceive with a yeast infection are likely to wonder whether or not they can pregnant with a yeast infection. There is no need to panic as you can conceive while having a yeast infection. There is no conclusive evidence available which indicates that yeast infections cause infertility in women. However, the set of symptoms associated with a yeast infection which includes soreness, swelling, irritation, and burning sensation can make sex uncomfortable and painful. So, a woman suffering from a yeast infection may not be inclined to engage in intercourse. Therefore, a yeast infection does not directly impact fertility but it can certainly contribute to the problems of becoming pregnant by interfering with her sex life. Also, recurrent yeast infections can make the vagina hostile to sperm retention making conception difficult and creating conditions of candida infertility.
An untreated yeast infection is not the exact cause of infertility in women, however, it certainly plays an indirect role in creating complications for conception in the following ways:
Every problem has a solution. A yeast infection in a woman surely makes it difficult for her to conceive, but that does not mean she cannot get pregnant at all. If you are trying to conceive and have a yeast infection, here is how you can fight it:
You can prevent yeast infection by keeping in mind the following points:
Getting pregnant with a yeast infection is possible though it may be bothersome. However, in the instance of recurring yeast infections or difficulty in curing through conventional means, it is advisable to refer to a doctor for tests and specific treatment.