Can a Yeast Infection Impact a Pregnancy Test Result? Treatment & Prevention

Can a Yeast Infection Affect a Pregnancy Test?

A yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is a common condition that can affect women during pregnancy. It is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans in the vagina and often leads to itching, burning, and discharge. Many women wonder if having a yeast infection at the time of taking a pregnancy test can impact the results.

How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?

Pregnancy tests detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after implantation occurs. This hormone can be detected in the urine or blood a few days after conception. Pregnancy tests work by immersing a strip coated with antibodies into the urine stream. The antibodies bind to any hCG present, triggering a color change on the strip. Most tests can detect hCG levels as low as 25 mIU/mL.

Can a Yeast Infection Affect hCG Levels?

There is no evidence that having a yeast infection can directly affect the levels of hCG in the body or urine. The Candida fungus itself does not impact pregnancy hormone production. This means that the results of a pregnancy test should not be altered due to a yeast infection.

False Negatives Due to Diluted Urine

One possible way a yeast infection could indirectly affect a pregnancy test is if the excessive vaginal discharge dilutes the urine. Pregnancy tests require a concentrated urine sample to detect hCG accurately. Diluted urine may prevent hCG from reaching detectable levels, even though the hormone is present. This could lead to a false negative result.

Ways to Avoid Diluted Urine

There are a few simple steps women with yeast infections can take to avoid getting an inaccurate dilute urine pregnancy test result:

• Limit fluid intake for 2 hours before taking the test
• Take the test first thing in the morning when urine is most concentrated
• Collect a urine sample from the midstream rather than the initial flow
• Use a pregnancy test cup to collect urine rather than directly urinating on the stick

Could Yeast Infection Symptoms Mimic Early Pregnancy Symptoms?

Some of the most common early signs and symptoms of pregnancy include:

• Swollen or tender breasts
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Nausea
• Frequent urination
• Food cravings and aversions

There is significant overlap between some yeast infection symptoms and normal early pregnancy symptoms. For example, breast tenderness, fatigue, nausea, and frequent urination can occur with both conditions. This similarity could lead some women to mistakenly attribute yeast infection symptoms to being pregnant.

Differences Between Yeast Infection and Pregnancy Symptoms

However, there are some key differences between yeast infection symptoms and pregnancy symptoms:

• Vaginal discharge - Thick, white, clumpy discharge is common with yeast but not in early pregnancy.
• Itching and burning - Vulvar itching and burning is frequently reported with yeast but not pregnancy.
• Odor - A yeast overgrowth often causes a yeasty or bread-like odor which does not occur in pregnancy.
• Abdominal cramps - Mild cramping and bloating is more associated with yeast compared to pregnancy.

Paying attention to the exact nature and location of symptoms can help determine whether they are more likely related to a yeast infection or potential pregnancy.

How are Yeast Infections Treated During Pregnancy?

Yeast infections are very common during pregnancy, affecting up to 1 in 3 women. This increased prevalence is due to hormonal fluctuations and increased estrogen levels which can promote Candida growth. Fortunately, there are effective and safe ways to treat vaginal yeast infections during pregnancy.

Over-the-Counter Antifungal Creams

Many over-the-counter vaginal antifungal creams are considered safe during pregnancy. These include clotrimazole (Lotrimin), miconazole (Monistat), and terconazole (Terazol). These creams are inserted into the vagina daily for 3-7 days. Many come with disposable vaginal applicators to help administer the cream properly. Oral fluconazole is not recommended during pregnancy.

Prescription Oral Medications

For more severe yeast infections, a healthcare provider may prescribe a single oral dose of fluconazole. This is considered safe after the first trimester. Multiple doses over several days are not recommended as the safety in pregnancy is uncertain. Topical antifungal creams are still effective and should be tried first.

Probiotics and Yogurt

Some women find relief using probiotics or eating yogurt with live cultures. The good bacteria can help restore normal vaginal flora and reduce Candida overgrowth. Probiotic supplements should be from reputable brands that verify probiotic strains. Yogurt should have active cultures listed. There is limited evidence on optimal dosing but up to two servings of yogurt or one probiotic capsule daily may help.

Boric Acid Suppositories

Boric acid is a natural antifungal that can be compounded into vaginal suppositories. Studies show boric acid suppositories are effective and safe to use during pregnancy. The suppositories are inserted vaginally for 7-14 days. Boric acid should be prepared by a pharmacist and not made at home.

Home Remedies

There are several natural remedies for yeast infections during pregnancy that may provide relief:

• Applying plain yogurt with a clean tampon daily
• Taking apple cider vinegar baths
• Rinsing with diluted tea tree oil solution
• Increasing garlic intake
• Eating more coconut oil

However, evidence is limited on the effectiveness of these home remedies. They should not replace medical treatment if symptoms persist or worsen.

Preventing Recurrence

To help prevent yeast infections from recurring during pregnancy:

• Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing
• Don't use scented products near the vagina
• Limit sugar intake
• Eat plain yogurt daily
• Maintain good hygiene

Treating Urinary Tract Infections During Pregnancy

Many women wonder if they can take their usual UTI medications when they get pregnant. While most antibiotics are safe, certain UTI drugs should be avoided during pregnancy.

UTI Symptoms in Pregnancy

The most common UTI symptoms during pregnancy include:

• A strong urge to urinate frequently
• A burning sensation when peeing
• Passing only small amounts of urine
• Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain or pressure

Left untreated, UTIs can lead to kidney infections which may increase the risk of pregnancy complications. Thus, prompt treatment with safe antibiotics is important.

First Trimester Treatment

Certain UTI antibiotics like macrodantin/nitrofurantoin and amoxicillin are generally considered safe in the first trimester. Short courses of 3-7 days are recommended. Talk to your doctor about the best antibiotic choice for your situation.

Second and Third Trimester Treatment

Penicillins, cephalosporins, and fosfomycin are usually recommended for treating UTIs in the second and third trimesters. Levofloxacin may be used as a second-

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.