Fluconazole is an antifungal medication that doctors often prescribe to treat yeast infections, sometimes called thrush. You can take it by mouth, so it’s a convenient treatment for many people.
If you’re in your third trimester of pregnancy and your doctor suggests fluconazole, you’re likely wondering whether it’s safe for you and your baby. It’s so important to be fully informed so you can make the best decision, with the help of your healthcare provider.
While doctors generally avoid prescribing fluconazole during pregnancy, there may be some situations where it’s considered. However, there are usually other treatments that would be preferred. This article will help you learn more about whether fluconazole is safe in pregnancy 3rd trimester.
Understanding fluconazole and its use
What is fluconazole?
Fluconazole is an antifungal medication that treats fungal infections, including vaginal yeast infections, but it is important to understand what you must know before using fluconazole and terbinafine. It stops fungus from growing.
Why is fluconazole used?
Fluconazole treats conditions such as vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, and other fungal infections. But there are often better treatment choices for vaginal yeast infections, especially if you’re pregnant.
Fluconazole in pregnancy: General considerations
During pregnancy, it’s best to avoid fluconazole unless other treatments haven’t worked or the infection is severe. You and your healthcare provider will need to weigh the risks and benefits of using fluconazole during pregnancy.
Risks associated with fluconazole
Some studies suggest that taking fluconazole early in pregnancy could raise the risk of miscarriage and, in rare cases, heart defects. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
High doses of fluconazole during pregnancy have been linked to a slightly increased risk of congenital malformations.
Fluconazole in the third trimester: What you need to know
After 20 weeks of pregnancy, the baby’s heart has finished developing. That means the risk of heart defects associated with fluconazole goes down significantly. Some studies even say that taking fluconazole during later pregnancy does not raise your risk of miscarriage or heart defects.
Still, it’s important to consider how severe your infection is, and whether there are other medications you could try. While fluconazole is less risky in the third trimester, you and your doctor will still need to weigh the risks and benefits carefully.
If you take fluconazole in your third trimester, you probably won’t need any extra monitoring beyond the usual anomaly scans.
Alternatives to Fluconazole for Thrush During Pregnancy
If you’re dealing with thrush while pregnant, talk to your doctor about other options besides fluconazole. Usually, they’ll recommend creams or pessaries that contain clotrimazole, but fluconazole and itraconazole cream are other options to consider. The upside is that these medications don’t absorb into your system very much, so they’re considered safer for the baby.
Another option is to just leave the thrush alone. In most cases, it won’t pose a big risk to you or your baby. And, since topical treatments often work well, it’s best to try those first before considering fluconazole.
Frequently Asked Questions
What drink kills yeast infections?
While some believe certain drinks like unsweetened cranberry juice or kefir can help prevent yeast infections, there’s no definitive scientific evidence that any specific drink can “kill” an existing yeast infection. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet is always a good idea for overall health.
Does fluconazole flush out discharge?
Fluconazole, an antifungal medication, works by inhibiting the growth of the yeast causing the infection. As the yeast dies off, the associated symptoms, including abnormal discharge, should gradually decrease. However, fluconazole doesn’t directly “flush out” the discharge.
Are yeast infections common in the third trimester?
Yes, yeast infections are more common during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, due to hormonal changes that can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora. These infections can cause discomfort, itching, and discharge.
How to get rid of a yeast infection in 24 hours without meds?
There’s no guaranteed way to eliminate a yeast infection in 24 hours without medication. Home remedies like yogurt or tea tree oil might offer temporary relief, but they typically don’t provide a complete cure. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options.
Is fluconazole 150 mg safe in pregnancy 3rd trimester?
The safety of fluconazole during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, is a complex issue. Some studies have suggested a potential association between high-dose, prolonged fluconazole use in pregnancy and certain birth defects. It is absolutely crucial to discuss the risks and benefits of fluconazole with your doctor before taking it during any stage of pregnancy. They can help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Using fluconazole in the third trimester poses less risk than using it early in pregnancy, but it’s still not risk-free. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits in your specific situation. Other treatments should be considered first. Fluconazole should only be used if other options aren’t effective and only under your doctor’s supervision.