[20F] Pregnant with symptoms of vaginal infection

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female, currently 33 weeks pregnant, presents with a two-week history of thick, yellow, sour-smelling vaginal discharge, accompanied by itching and swelling of the vulva and vagina. She reports pain during urination and sexual intercourse. The patient has not been tested for sexually transmitted infections during this pregnancy but has engaged in unprotected sex. She has no other reported symptoms, no known pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses, and an allergy to penicillin. The patient is taking prenatal vitamins and no other medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, the most likely explanation is:

  • Vaginal Yeast Infection: This is a common condition in women, especially during pregnancy, due to hormonal changes that disrupt the normal balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. Symptoms typically include itching, swelling, and a thick, yellow, cottage cheese-like discharge.
    • Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, which can be in the form of creams, ointments, tablets, or suppositories.

However, other conditions that could potentially explain your symptoms include:

  • Bacterial Vaginosis: This is a condition caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina, leading to a change in the normal bacterial balance. It often produces a fishy-smelling discharge, which may be grayish-white or yellow.

    • Treatment usually involves antibiotics, which can be taken orally or applied as a cream or gel in the vagina.
  • Sexually Transmitted Infections: Certain STIs, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, can cause similar symptoms.

    • Treatment for these conditions typically involves antibiotics.

What you can do

  1. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can perform tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
  2. In the meantime, avoid sexual intercourse until you have been evaluated by a healthcare provider, as some conditions can be transmitted to your partner.
  3. Maintain good hygiene, but avoid douching or using scented feminine products, as these can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina and potentially worsen your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding or passing of tissue
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Severe nausea or vomiting

Please note that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection during pregnancy?

Common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection during pregnancy include itching, swelling of the vulva and vagina, and a thick, yellow, cottage cheese-like discharge. Pain during urination and sexual intercourse can also occur.


How can bacterial vaginosis be distinguished from a yeast infection?

Bacterial vaginosis often produces a fishy-smelling discharge that may be grayish-white or yellow, whereas a yeast infection typically causes a thick, yellow, cottage cheese-like discharge. BV may not always cause itching, which is a common symptom of a yeast infection.


What are the risks of untreated sexually transmitted infections during pregnancy?

Untreated sexually transmitted infections during pregnancy can lead to complications such as preterm labor, low birth weight, and transmission of the infection to the baby during childbirth. It is important to get tested and treated promptly.


What precautions should be taken while experiencing vaginal discharge and itching during pregnancy?

While experiencing vaginal discharge and itching during pregnancy, it is important to maintain good hygiene, avoid sexual intercourse until evaluated by a healthcare provider, and refrain from using douches or scented feminine products that can disrupt the vaginal flora.


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