1. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Bacterial vaginosis is a mild infection of the vagina caused by bacteria. Normally, there are a lot of "good" bacteria and some "bad" bacteria in the vagina. The good types help control the growth of the bad types. In women with bacterial vaginosis, the balance is upset. There are not enough good bacteria and too many bad bacteria.
Signs You've Got It:
- Thin grayish-white discharge
- Painful urination
- Itching around your vagina
- Fishy odor
What You Need to Know: BV occurs when there's an overgrowth of bacteria that normally lives in the vagina. Occasionally, this itchy infection goes away on its own, but you'll probably need antibiotics.
2. Yeast Infection: Vaginal yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, are a common female condition. Yeast infections are caused by the fungus Candida. This fungus is associated with intense itching, swelling, and irritation. Treatment for yeast infections is relatively simple, depending on their severity.
Signs You've Got It:
- Vaginal pain and itching
- Thick, curdled whitish-yellow discharge.
- Redness and swelling of the vagina.
- Discomfort during sex.
What You Need to Know: During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone help create an environment in which yeast can thrive. Also: Having gestational diabetes can increase your likelihood of getting yeast infections. They're easily treated with a cream, ovule, or oral antifungal medicine. Just check with your ob-gyn before going the OTC route.
3. Group B Strep (GBS): Group B streptococcus (strep) is a common bacterium often carried in your intestines or lower genital tract. Group B strep is usually harmless in adults. If you're pregnant, get a group B strep screening test during your third trimester. If you have group B strep, antibiotic treatment during labor can protect your baby.
Signs You've Got It:
- GBS may cause a urinary tract infection in some people, but usually there aren't any symptoms.
What You Need to Know: GBS bacteria affects up to 25% of all healthy women, so you'll automatically be tested for it between 35-37 weeks.
4. Trichomoniasis: The infection is most common in women. Older women are more likely to be infected than younger women. If left untreated, a trichomoniasis infection can last for several months or years. Its symptoms can make sex unpleasant. But for pregnant women, it can cause serious childbirth complications.
Signs You've Got It:
- Itching, burning, and irritation during sex.
- Greenish-yellow, foul-smelling discharge.
What You Need to Know: Trichomoniasis is an STD, so prevention is key. Get tested to make sure neither you nor your partner has it and passed it back to the other. Trichomoniasis is easily treatable with oral antibiotics.
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