Recurrent Yeast Infection and Pregnancy Chances: What You Need to Know

Is it a recurrence of a Candida infection and what is the likelihood of pregnancy?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you about a situation.
In early October, I was treated for a Candida infection and recovered.
At the end of November, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend, and the next day, I noticed a fishy odor when I urinated, although the discharge was minimal and appeared normal to the naked eye.
Today marks the third day since then, and I would like to know if this indicates a recurrence of the infection.
Additionally, I feel some discomfort and a slight burning sensation when tightening during urination.
Should I see a urologist for this?
Furthermore, I would like to ask about my menstrual cycle.
My last period was from November 13 to November 17, with ovulation occurring on November 26.
We had sexual intercourse between November 25 and November 27.
My boyfriend initially did not use a condom for a brief moment but did not ejaculate, and then he used a condom until ejaculation.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this scenario? Thank you, doctor.

Nina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/02

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
A fishy odor from the vagina may indicate a bacterial infection; please seek medical evaluation.

2.
Experiencing discomfort or a slight burning sensation when tightening the urinary stream may suggest a urinary tract infection; a urinalysis can confirm this.
Caution is advised during urinalysis, as the vaginal and urethral openings are very close together.
If vaginal secretions contaminate the urine sample, bacteria from the vaginal secretions may be detected, leading to a misdiagnosis of a urinary tract infection and unnecessary treatment.

3.
Therefore, it is important to clean the area around the urethral opening before urinating and to collect a midstream urine sample.
The initial portion of the urine is most likely to be contaminated with vaginal secretions, making it less accurate; thus, collecting a midstream sample provides a more accurate analysis.

4.
Engaging in sexual intercourse on the day of ovulation without using a condom, even if ejaculation is not felt, still carries a risk of pregnancy.

Respectfully, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/12/02

More Info

Recurrent yeast infections during pregnancy can be a concern for many women, especially those who have experienced them in the past. Understanding the implications of these infections and their relationship with pregnancy is crucial for maintaining both maternal and fetal health.

Firstly, it is essential to recognize that yeast infections, primarily caused by the fungus Candida, are relatively common and can occur in women of childbearing age. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can increase the likelihood of developing these infections due to elevated estrogen levels, which can alter the vaginal flora and create a more favorable environment for yeast overgrowth. Symptoms of a yeast infection typically include itching, burning, and abnormal discharge, which may resemble cottage cheese.

In your case, you mentioned experiencing symptoms such as a fishy odor and discomfort during urination. While a fishy odor is more commonly associated with bacterial vaginosis rather than a yeast infection, the discomfort you are feeling could indicate a recurrent infection or another issue, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI). Given that you have a history of yeast infections, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. They may perform a physical examination and possibly take a sample for laboratory testing to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Regarding your concerns about the chances of pregnancy, the timing of your sexual activity relative to your ovulation cycle is crucial. You mentioned that your last menstrual period was from November 13 to November 17, with ovulation occurring around November 26. Engaging in sexual activity just before ovulation can increase the likelihood of conception, especially if sperm is present in the vaginal canal during the ovulation window. The fact that your partner did not initially use a condom could potentially raise the risk of pregnancy, even if he did not ejaculate inside you. Sperm can be present in pre-ejaculate fluid, which means there is still a possibility of pregnancy.

If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, consider taking a home pregnancy test if your period is late or if you experience any early pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea or breast tenderness. Additionally, if you are experiencing recurrent yeast infections, it may be beneficial to discuss preventive measures with your healthcare provider, such as lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, or the use of probiotics, which may help maintain a healthy vaginal flora.

In summary, recurrent yeast infections during pregnancy can be managed effectively with proper medical guidance. It is essential to seek medical attention for any unusual symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen. Furthermore, understanding your ovulation cycle and the timing of sexual activity can help you assess your chances of pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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