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Expert Q&A

	By Patricia A. Naughton Obstetrician/Gynecologist Women's Health Specialists, Chicago

Would a yeast infection make it harder to conceive?

Yeast (Candida albicans) infections do not cause infertility. If irritation is already present, however, most women avoid intercourse until treatment is completed. Some prescription treatments for yeast may be contraindicated in a woman attempting pregnancy, so talk to your caregiver and tell him or her that you're trying to get pregnant before treating any suspected infection.

Keep in mind that hormonal changes (including those from birth control pills as well as pregnancy), antibiotics, some steroid medicines, elevated blood sugar, intercourse and douching can all potentially trigger or intensify an infection.

Prevention is the best cure. Wash and dry the vaginal area regularly, wipe from front to back after using the toilet, and wear cotton underwear. Also eat well (not too much sugar, and perhaps try yogurt with live cultures of lactobacillus acidophilus) and get plenty of rest to give your body strength to fight any infection."

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