Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods

General information

The intestine is an important part of the digestive system, where most nutrients are broken down and absorbed.
This process involves various enzymes and substances found in pancreatic juice and bile. The intestinal wall also produces components necessary for digestion. It is known that most of the microbes inhabiting the human body are located in the large intestine. Its composition is quite individual, but the main representatives are:

Bifidobacteria.
Lactobacilli.
Bacteroides.
Enterococci.
Escherichia coli.

They constitute the most numerous (about 90%) and relatively constant pool of bacteria. The remaining microbes - streptococci, Proteus, Klebsiella, staphylococci, fungi, etc. - are not always detected and in much smaller quantities, therefore they are recognized as transient or residual representatives of the intestinal biocenosis.

Microbes are in close symbiosis with the human body, exerting a diverse positive effect on the latter:

Suppression of the growth of pathogenic bacteria (Shigella, Salmonella, etc.).
Stimulation of immune defense (production of immunoglobulins, interferon, cytokines).
Participation in metabolic processes (metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, microelements).
Production of various biologically active substances (vitamins B1, B6, B9, B12, K, enzymes).
Neutralization of toxic components (phenols, amines, mercaptans).

Therefore, the normal course of many local and systemic processes largely depends on the state of the intestinal microflora, especially in women carrying a child.

Causes

Vaginal dysbiosis develops when beneficial bacteria die, and opportunistic and pathogenic bacteria begin to develop rapidly, which often occurs against the background of reduced immunity (which decreases during pregnancy).

As for the intestinal microflora, it consists of:

lactobacilli;
bifidobacteria;
non-toxigenic clostridia;
some types of Escherichia (Escherichia coli).

During their life activity, these microorganisms secrete enzymes that facilitate the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients into the blood. However, the excessive proliferation of some of them, for example, E. coli, as well as the entry of pathogenic microorganisms, such as streptococci, staphylococci, into the intestines, provokes the destruction of beneficial microorganisms and the rapid growth of pathogenic flora, which causes symptoms of dysbiosis in people, including women during pregnancy time.

So, dysbiosis in pregnant women occurs when their immunity drops, and this happens quite often, because such a physiological condition requires the woman’s immune system to put an excessive load on it, aimed at protecting the fetus, while the woman’s body becomes vulnerable. That is, this phenomenon may be natural for pregnant women, but it can also be caused by prolonged use of antibacterial drugs and various diseases, which include:

gastritis;
high or low blood pressure;
diarrhea or constipation;
salt metabolism disorder.

The development of vaginal or intestinal dysbiosis in pregnant women can also include factors such as poor-quality food, radiation, poor ecology and constant stress.

Causes of dysbiosis

During pregnancy, dysbiosis occurs in every second expectant mother. There are enough problems for the development of the disease.

Causes of dysbiosis during pregnancy:

hormonal changes, endocrine pathologies;
uncontrolled use of antibacterial drugs;
weakened immunity is a natural reaction of the body to prevent fetal rejection;
compression of the intestinal loops by the uterus - intestinal motility is disrupted;
change in diet;
stress.

Vaginal dysbiosis occurs against the background of insufficient intimate hygiene, frequent douching, and use of soap. The use of tampons, caps, or diaphragms shortly before pregnancy negatively affects the balance of microflora.

Disruption of physiological relationships in the environment of intestinal bacteria is provoked by many factors. Dysbacteriosis can appear due to external adverse effects on the body, disturbances in the intestines or other systems. Therefore, the reasons for this condition may be:

Taking antibacterial drugs.
Eating disorders.
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, duodenitis, colitis).
Helminthiases.

During pregnancy, other local factors are also present. An enlarged uterus puts pressure on the abdominal organs, pushing them upward, which inevitably affects intestinal function. And the increased concentration of progesterone, in turn, helps to weaken its peristalsis.

In addition, great importance is attached to the relative decrease in the body’s immune defense and psycho-emotional factors. It is not without reason that they say that pregnant women should not worry, but even carrying a child itself is a considerable stress for the body. In addition, as the fetus grows, it requires more and more nutrients, which often leads to anemia in pregnant women. This is another aspect of weakening the defenses.

Causes and symptoms

Many factors can provoke the death of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, in particular:

chronic fatigue;
taking antibiotics;
stress;
poor nutrition;
helminthiasis;
decreased immunity.

Attention! Considering that the psycho-emotional state of expectant mothers is often far from stable, this factor has a significant impact on the state of the microflora.

The main manifestations of dysbacteriosis are:

diarrhea or constipation;
change in the color and consistency of stool;
flatulence;
frequent belching;
bloating;
nausea;
appetite disorders;
stomach ache.

But since these symptoms very often accompany pregnancy, women rarely pay attention to them and attribute their occurrence to natural changes in the body. Therefore, measures to combat dysbiosis are rarely taken by them until a violation of the composition of the intestinal microflora is discovered by chance or in connection with other diseases.

Important: since severe forms of dysbiosis often lead to the development of hypovitaminosis, it is the decrease in the body’s natural defenses that in most cases is the reason for testing for dysbiosis.

Symptoms

Manifestations of dysbiosis depend on the type of pathology.

Signs of intestinal dysbiosis during pregnancy:

flatulence;
rumbling in the stomach;
alternating diarrhea and constipation;
abdominal pain, bursting, colic;
stool acquires a sour, fetid odor, foamy consistency, and contains mucus;
attacks of nausea, vomiting;
bad breath;
belching;
weakness, sleep disturbance, allergic reactions;
manifestations of anemia, various types of vitamin deficiency.

Signs of oral dysbiosis:

dryness, unpleasant taste in the mouth;
plaque on teeth and tongue;
ulcers, blisters on the mucous membrane;
inflammation, bleeding gums;
caries;
tonsillitis .

If a disorder of the vaginal microbiocenosis develops, a pregnant woman experiences the following symptoms:

itching and burning in the genital area;
the appearance of discharge, which can be abundant or scanty, have an unpleasant odor and an unusual consistency (too viscous or, conversely, too liquid);
pain in the lower abdomen, as well as pain during sexual intercourse;
swelling of the labia.

If a pregnant woman has developed intestinal dysbiosis, then she is concerned about symptoms such as:

constipation and diarrhea;
abdominal pain, which can be localized in the umbilical area;
the appearance of mucus in the stool;
general intoxication of the body, manifested by increased body temperature, weakness, fatigue, etc.

Normal bacterial composition of the intestine is a relative concept. The number and ratio of bacteria inhabiting the small and large intestines of humans constantly fluctuates. There are limits to the content of certain microorganisms for the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. If the quantitative or qualitative microbial composition of the mucous membrane is disrupted, the intestines malfunction, which negatively affects the health of the whole organism.

Dysbacteriosis in pregnant women is a common phenomenon that can be caused by various factors or a combination of them. The symptoms of dysbiosis do not depend on the cause that provoked its development. Symptoms may differ only in intensity, depending on the degree of the disorder.

The development of microflora balance in pregnant women is due to decreased immunity and exacerbation of various chronic diseases. Dysbacteriosis can be caused by diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, inflammatory joint lesions, gastritis, caries, hormonal imbalance and other changes. Taking medications, especially antibiotics, can provoke inhibition of beneficial bacteria.

If you are just planning a pregnancy, after antibiotic therapy, doctors recommend delaying conceiving a child until the components of the drug are completely eliminated from the body.

Symptoms of dysbiosis appear with a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in pathogenic microflora. Signs of a violation of the microbial composition in the intestines are the following:

frequent bowel movements and loose stools;
constipation;
alternating diarrhea with constipation;
rumbling in the stomach;
nausea and vomiting;
flatulence, bloating;
coating on the tongue;
bad breath;
spasms in the intestinal area;
fatigue, weakness;
worsening sleep;
allergic manifestations.

The symptoms described above are classic signs of dysbiosis. Often, manifestations of dysbiosis are attributed to the state of pregnancy and are not taken seriously, especially in the early stages, when the expectant mother is worried about toxicosis, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

With intestinal dysbiosis, the normal composition of the microflora is disrupted - its permanent representatives become fewer, and transient or conditionally pathogenic and pathogenic bacteria take first place. This leads to a number of changes in the intestines:

Flatulence and rumbling in the stomach.
Diarrhea or constipation.
Periodic pain (bursting, pulling, colicky pain).
Change in the character of the stool (mushy, mucus-filled, foamy, sour-smelling, foul-smelling).
Belching, nausea.

Some of these symptoms, for example, constipation and bloating, can also be observed under physiological conditions in women, especially in later stages. Therefore, they are not inclined to consider them as potentially dangerous. However, if other symptoms appear, you should definitely think about seeing a doctor and getting examined.

Clinical symptoms

Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy manifests itself as follows:

pain in the umbilical area;
the appearance of heaviness in the stomach after eating;
diarrhea;
flatulence;
heartburn;
coated tongue;
dry skin;
allergy;
irritability, anxiety;
loss of strength, insomnia;
weight loss;
increased toxicosis in early pregnancy.

Dysbacteriosis manifests itself in the form of chronic diarrhea.
Many of the above symptoms are often accompanied, so often pregnant women simply do not pay attention to them, attributing them to natural processes in the body. Dysbiosis affects both the condition of the mother and the condition of the baby. Maternal microflora becomes the foundation for the formation of intestinal microflora in the fetus.

Hormonal changes occur in the body starting from the first days of pregnancy. It affects all vital systems, and the genitourinary system is no exception. With vaginal dysbiosis, women experience the following symptoms:

itching and burning of the vulva;
the appearance of pathological discharge with an unpleasant odor;
pain in the lower abdomen, which intensifies during intimacy;
swelling of the labia.

Danger to the fetus

A pregnant woman is primarily concerned about the condition of the child. And although intestinal dysbiosis is the cause of obvious discomfort, not everyone understands how much it affects the fetus. Severe flatulence or increased peristalsis can become factors that provoke an increase in uterine tone. And this, in turn, threatens miscarriage and premature birth.

On the other hand, hypovitaminosis and hypocalcemia, which occur with severe dysbiosis, disrupt the normal trophism of the fetus, and therefore its intrauterine development. As you can see, an imbalance of intestinal microflora is not such a harmless condition, but can pose a very real danger during pregnancy.

Not only does dysbacteriosis cause a lot of problems for the woman herself during pregnancy - the pathological condition can be dangerous for the child in her womb. In particular, with vaginal dysbiosis, a very common occurrence is an increase in the tone of the uterus, which, accordingly, can cause the threat of miscarriage and premature birth.

Other complications that can cause intestinal and vaginal dysbiosis in a pregnant woman are:

violation of the elasticity of the birth canal, due to which the risk of injury increases during childbirth;
insufficient supply of nutrients to the fetus due to insufficient absorption by the mother’s body and, as a result, disturbances in the development of the fetus;
infection of the fetus with streptococci, staphylococci, E. coli and fungi of the genus Candida during childbirth, which can cause many pathological conditions in the newborn, some of which are even life-threatening.

But the most dangerous complication is premature termination of pregnancy, which can occur if dysbiosis is complicated by the symptoms of an inflammatory process that spreads to the upper organs, that is, the uterus and appendages.

Normal microflora performs important functions. Its main part is bifidobacteria. Then in number follow lactobacilli and opportunistic microbes - Escherichia coli, clostridia and others.

If for some reason the number of beneficial bacteria begins to decline, their place is immediately taken by pathogenic microorganisms. The main functions of beneficial bacteria in the intestines:

digestion of food;
absorption of nutrients (vitamins, minerals and other beneficial substances);
they prevent the intestines from being colonized by pathogenic microbes;
prevent toxins from entering the blood;
are responsible for general and local immunity.

Therefore, even small manifestations of dysbiosis in pregnant women cannot be ignored. In the early stages, disruption of microflora can lead to miscarriage.

Later, the absence or deficiency of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli threatens the appearance of pathogenic flora, its penetration into the blood and infection of the fetus with infectious diseases that can threaten its life.

Intestinal dysbiosis during pregnancy is primarily corrected through diet. It is especially important due to the fact that during this time, medication intake is severely limited. What will the doctor recommend? First of all, avoid any foods that cause irritation. The following should be excluded or limited from the menu:

a large number of meat products, they cause rotting in the intestines;
simple carbohydrates - sugar, candies, sweets, carbonated drinks - cause fermentation;
rich broths provoke increased production of intestinal juice;
All sour, spicy, spicy and plant foods containing essential oils irritate the intestinal mucosa.

The diet should include:

fruits (but not sour);
cereals, especially buckwheat, millet, rye;
tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, cabbage;
fermented milk products.

In addition to diet and depending on the severity of the syndrome, medications are prescribed. Dysbacteriosis in pregnant women today is treated with drugs containing probiotics. They are not capable of harming the fetus, since they contain only microorganisms that should populate the intestines and have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the entire digestive system.

Preparations containing bifidobacteria and lactobacilli are added to treatment with probiotics. In combination with a diet, the unpleasant manifestations and dangerous consequences of dysbiosis can be eliminated within a month.

In order for the treatment of pathology to be effective and safe, it is important to consult a doctor on time. The main signs of dysbiosis:

heartburn;
soreness in the navel area;
bloating, flatulence;
presence of heaviness in the epigastric region;
chronic diarrhea.

Against the background of intestinal disorder, excessive dryness of the skin appears. Most women experience a small allergic-type rash. As for the early stages of pregnancy, there is mainly toxicosis, as well as weight loss. Dysbacteriosis significantly affects the state of the nervous system.

This pathology causes a lot of inconvenience to a woman. If a woman has been diagnosed with vaginal dysbiosis, uterine tone may develop, and this can lead to premature birth or miscarriage. Therefore, it is important to begin timely diagnosis and therapy to avoid complications and tragic consequences.

Complications of dysbacteriosis:

lack of nutrients and vitamins for the fetus, as they are not sufficiently absorbed by the mother’s body;
the elasticity of the birth canal is impaired, which increases the risk of serious injury during labor;
damage to the fetus by E. coli, staphylococci, candidiasis and streptococci during childbirth, which can cause the development of pathology in the baby.

Complications of dysbiosis in pregnant women

In addition to what is described above, the following should be considered complications of dysbiosis in a pregnant woman:

the fact of a violation of the elasticity of the birth canal, which may lead to the possibility of traumatizing the child;
interruption of the supply of nutrients to the fetus. Their lack leads to the fact that the child develops to an inferior extent;
infection of the child with staphylococci, streptococci, E. coli and Candida during childbirth. A baby can get sick with various life-threatening diseases.

Why is it dangerous?

In pregnant women, the symptoms of dysbacteriosis - diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence - are very pronounced. Which leads to disruption of the digestive process, vitamin deficiency and anemia develop. If the balance of microflora is disturbed, the risk of premature birth increases.

Consequences of possible dysbiosis:

dehydration;
weight loss;
the body becomes more susceptible to respiratory diseases, chronic pathologies worsen;
increases the risk of developing secondary intestinal infections and inflammatory processes in the abdominal cavity.

Vaginal dysbiosis increases the risk of ruptures and severe bleeding during childbirth. The disease is transmitted to the child in utero or when passing through the birth canal. With congenital candidiasis, the child develops the mammary gland, the genitals and eyes are affected, and pustules form on the skin.

Dysbacteriosis of the birth canal

The birth canal is overgrown with the necessary microflora, which the baby will collect at birth. The health of the birth canal is an important prerequisite for the formation of healthy offspring. The composition of the strains is determined primarily by age, adjusted for hormonal levels and general condition. There are a lot of lactobacilli here, which are responsible for maintaining an acidic environment and preventing the spread of pathogenic flora. The main metabolites are hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid.

During pregnancy, hormonal levels change, affecting all organ systems and the genitourinary system. The mucous membrane of the birth canal becomes thicker, and the population density of lactobacilli increases. Difficulties begin when microorganisms that are resistant to an acidic environment, for example, fungi, appear inside. The composition of the environment changes, adversely affecting the immune system, leading to dysbacteriosis. In a broad sense, this is dysbiosis, special cases are candidiasis (reproduction of the genus Candida) and thrush.

According to nature's design, the density of lactobacilli is maximum at the time of birth. The newborn is provided with good cultures from the mother. In a baby girl, the birth canal is filled with microflora already on the first day. And if the balance is maintained, future treatment is not required.

Treatment methods during pregnancy and lactation

If signs of dysbiosis appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. He will conduct the necessary examination, based on the results of which he will formulate a therapeutic program. But we must remember that treatment of dysbiosis during pregnancy should be as safe as possible and not harm the unborn child.

Since the state of the microflora largely depends on the substances entering the intestines, the first component of treatment is diet. During pregnancy, you already need to adhere to many rules of healthy eating, and especially with dysbiosis. To normalize the function of the digestive tract, you should limit the consumption of the following foods:

Sweets and baked goods.
Pickles and marinades.
Spicy and fatty dishes.
Smoked meats and canned goods.
Whole milk.
Promoting gas formation (cabbage, legumes, brown bread, spinach).

Fermented milk products, fresh vegetables and fruits are of great importance in the diet. The former are a natural source of lactobacilli, and the latter are rich in fiber - a substrate for their reproduction. In addition, plant substances contain vitamins, the level of which also needs to be increased. You need to eat food often, at least 4 times a day, maintaining an adequate drinking regime.

Medicines

The goal of drug treatment of dysbiosis is to destroy pathogenic microbes and enhance the growth of normal ones, primarily bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. The first aspect requires serious consideration, because it involves the use of antibiotics, many of which are not recommended during pregnancy. But in severe cases, they are still used, but only those that do not have a harmful effect on the fetus.

But drugs that promote the proliferation of normal microflora are completely safe and can be taken completely safely by a pregnant woman. Similar medications include:

Probiotics (Linex, Bifiform, Lactiale).
Prebiotics (Dufalak, Hilak forte).
Synbiotics (Bifidumbacterin, Maxilac).

In addition to these drugs, medications with a symptomatic effect, that is, eliminating the main manifestations of the disease, help treat dysbiosis. Depending on the situation, the following medications are prescribed:

Defoamers (Espumizan).
Enzymes (Mezim).
Antispasmodics (No-spa).

It is also recommended to take vitamin and mineral complexes suitable for pregnant women (Elevit, Pregnavit). If dysbiosis develops against the background of chronic pathology of the gastrointestinal tract, then treatment is supplemented according to the diagnosis. But each of the drugs is taken in accordance with medical recommendations.

The problem of intestinal dysbiosis is widespread in the population. And during pregnancy, additional factors arise that contribute to its development. Therefore, great importance is given to preventive measures, primarily proper nutrition, normalization of the daily routine, a comfortable psychological environment, as well as timely treatment of chronic intestinal diseases.

Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy is a rather unpleasant phenomenon that women often encounter while carrying a child. Mostly women develop vaginal dysbiosis when the ratio of lactobacilli and opportunistic microorganisms is disrupted due to a decrease in general immunity.

The diagnosis can be made based on the complaints of a pregnant woman and examination by a gynecologist and gastroenterologist. But to confirm it and make a differential diagnosis, a vaginal smear and stool test for dysbacteriosis are indicated.

Treatment of pathology during pregnancy has its own characteristics, because women are contraindicated in taking many medications during this period. Therefore, treatment puts the normalization of nutrition in the first place (for intestinal dysbiosis). You can take drugs such as Linex, Bifidumbacterin and others, which will help restore the intestinal microflora, and these drugs do not have side effects on the fetus.

If a pregnant woman has vaginal dysbiosis, you cannot do without taking lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, which suppress pathogenic microflora, but do not affect the fetus in the womb. Of course, if inflammatory processes have developed in the vagina, it is advisable to prescribe treatment with antibacterial drugs, which are selected individually in each case.

Prevention of dysbiosis in a woman is important, which should begin in the process of preparing her to become a future mother. Therefore, when a woman is trying to get pregnant, she should be tested for the microflora of the vagina and intestines, which will reduce the likelihood of her developing dysbiosis while carrying a baby.

Treatment can also be carried out by taking immune boosters. Moreover, this can also be a traditional treatment - it is important to consult with your doctor before starting it, so that the tinctures and decoctions you take do not have a negative impact on the health of the mother and fetus.

Pregnancy is a special condition when all the forces of the female body are aimed at preserving the fetus. In fact, it is a foreign body, so the body suppresses its own immunity so as not to reject the new life that has arisen in the womb.

Against the backdrop of weakening maternal immunity, the composition of the intestinal microflora, and often the vagina, changes. Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy is a common occurrence that can be treated with both diet and medications.

Timely therapy is the key to successful treatment. The treatment course in this case will have its own characteristics, since there are many contraindications. It is important to normalize your diet. It is allowed to take Bifidumbacterin and Linex to restore damaged intestinal microflora. The main advantage of such drugs is that they have no side effects. They can only be taken as prescribed by the attending physician.

Of particular importance is the prevention of pathology, which should begin even before conceiving a child. To do this, all relevant tests are taken on the microflora of the intestines and vagina. This will help reduce the risk of developing dysbiosis. It is advisable to take medications that will help normalize the microflora of the intestines and vagina, avoid taking antibiotics, as well as various potent drugs.

Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy can pose a particular threat to the fetus. Therefore, if unpleasant symptoms appear, consult a doctor immediately.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are a special time for a woman, when her nutrition and treatment of diseases should differ from other stages in life. Treatment for dysbacteriosis is prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication with medications is strictly prohibited. Traditional methods may be powerless and may not bring the desired result, and waiting for a child is not the time for experiments.

Medicines can affect the course of pregnancy and the health of the baby. Antibacterial drugs are prescribed with caution. Antibiotic therapy is prescribed only if urgently necessary, if a pregnant or lactating woman has an infectious disease or a bacterial complication after suffering a viral infection. The drugs are selected taking into account contraindications and side effects on the fetus.

Therapeutic diet. With dysbiosis, proper nutrition plays an important role. Foods that cause flatulence, spicy, fried and fatty foods, smoked foods, pickled vegetables, and carbonated drinks should be excluded from the diet.

It is important to eat 4-5 times a day in small portions, eat easily digestible food that does not linger in the intestines for a long time and does not rot.

It is necessary to include fermented milk products, bran, cereals, fruits and vegetables rich in fiber in your diet.

To normalize the microbial composition of the microflora and improve digestion, you need to consume:

inulin (fiber that promotes the absorption of calcium. Found in chicory, garlic, bananas, artichoke);
pectin (stimulates the secretion of gastric juice. Found in carrots, ripe apples, pears, apricots, beets, raspberries, currants);
galacto-oligosaccharides (nutrients, prebiotics that contribute to the formation of the quantitative and qualitative composition of bacteria in the intestines. Found in mangoes, apples, bran, honey, Jerusalem artichoke, tomatoes, garlic, onions);
fructo-oligosaccharides (carbohydrates, digestible fiber that stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria. Found in wheat cereals, oatmeal, figs, leeks, chicory, bananas, tomatoes, onions, Jerusalem artichoke);
raffinose (a trisaccharide that is a nutrient for bifidobacteria. Found in beans, soybeans, Brussels sprouts, beets).

Taking antimicrobial drugs as prescribed by a doctor. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to destroy pathogenic microflora, but antibiotic therapy can negatively affect the baby’s condition. For pregnant women, the doctor may prescribe antimicrobial drugs - plant-based intestinal antiseptics.

Prevention and useful tips

To prevent the development of dysbiosis, a pregnant woman needs to:

Eat rationally. The diet should be complete and balanced; you should eat several times a day in small portions.
Introduce fermented milk products into your diet. These are kefir, yogurt, cottage cheese, including those with probiotics.
Monitor bowel movements. Bowel movements should occur regularly; you cannot restrain the urge to go to the toilet, as this can lead to worsening constipation.
Avoid stress. Nervous tension affects intestinal motility and the condition of the mucous membrane of the digestive tract.

During pregnancy occurring against the background of gastrointestinal diseases, it is possible to prescribe a preventive course of probiotics.

The earlier therapy is started, the higher the chance of getting by with a minimal drug load and stopping the pathological process in the first stages of development - and, accordingly, avoiding the formation of an imbalance of the intestinal microflora. If a pregnant woman needs antibiotics, they are selected from the range of approved drugs, and the duration of the course and dosage are carefully controlled.

Symptoms of dysbiosis during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the intestines are not the only organ where microbial imbalance occurs. Intestinal dysbiosis can cause the same problem to occur in the vagina.

Candidiasis or thrush in most cases is a consequence of vaginal dysbiosis. More than 90% of pregnant women experience this disease.

The health status of a pregnant woman cannot but affect the child. An imbalance of flora in the last stages (third trimester) is dangerous. The development of the baby's microflora is initially influenced by the mother's vaginal and intestinal flora. During natural childbirth, the child, passing through the birth canal, takes on the mother's microflora.

An important role is played by putting the baby to the breast in the first hours of life. Bifidobacteria contained in breast milk colonize the newborn's intestines and affect the further functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy is dangerous due to the possibility of provoking premature birth. The consequence of frequent diarrhea can be an inflammatory process in the intestines, which can have a negative effect on the tone of the uterus. Diarrhea leads to dehydration of the body, which negatively affects the function of the kidneys, heart, and gastrointestinal tract.

Persistent constipation can cause intoxication of the mother or baby. Frequent flatulence and straining during delayed bowel movements can tone the uterus and cause premature birth.

Dangers of vaginal dysbiosis in women during pregnancy:

Increased risk of injury to the birth canal. Vaginal dysbiosis is often accompanied by an inflammatory process in the vagina, which reduces the elasticity of the mucous membrane and exposes the birth canal to injury when a child passes through it.
Infection of a child with a fungus of the genus Candida (Candida albicans). Untreated candidiasis can be transmitted to a newborn in the womb. In this case, the baby develops congenital candidiasis, which will cause a lot of trouble for the baby and his parents. Acquired candidiasis appears in babies during their passage through the birth canal. A child can become infected with thrush from a sick mother while breastfeeding.

Consequences of congenital and acquired candidiasis:

thrush in the mouth;
skin lesions with pustules, vesicles;
In premature babies, a disseminated form is observed, in which all organs are affected. Curing systemic infection in this case appears to be a complex process;
development of candidosepsis;
brain damage by Candida fungus;
damage to the genital organs, conjunctiva.

Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy is not a harmless condition; it is dangerous for the health of the expectant mother and baby; treatment of microflora imbalance must begin immediately at the first sign of it.

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The limits of the norms of beneficial bacteria are individual for each person. This greatly complicates the diagnosis of dysbacteriosis. Examination prescribed in the presence of complaints and characteristic symptoms.

Diagnostic methods.

General and biochemical analysis of blood and urine. They can provoke an imbalance of microflora.
Coprogram and microbiological analysis of stool. The main research method for dysbiosis. Allows you to identify all microorganisms that live in the intestines.
Ultrasound of the digestive and genitourinary system.

A smear from the oral cavity and vagina is prescribed for the corresponding general dysbiosis.

Treatment of dysbiosis during pregnancy is aimed at eliminating unpleasant symptoms and restoring the balance of microflora. In addition to medications, a diet must be prescribed.

To reduce the likelihood of developing dysbiosis in a pregnant woman, it is necessary to eat properly and rationally, follow a daily routine, and avoid stress. Expectant mothers should undergo all tests in a timely manner in order to promptly identify pathological conditions.

Medicines

To establish intestinal dysbiosis during pregnancy, standard tests and examinations are prescribed. They do not harm either the woman or the unborn child:

Ultrasound of the abdominal organs allows you to see intestinal pathology, due to which the normal biocenosis in the intestines is disrupted (formation of bacteria);
coprogram - a stool analysis that will show how well food is digested and absorbed;
Bacterial culture will show the quantitative content of bacteria.

To diagnose vaginal dysbiosis, a smear is taken from a woman, the acidity of the environment in the vagina is determined and a visual examination is performed.

The most effective prevention of intestinal dysbiosis during pregnancy is proper nutrition. Beneficial bacteria need low molecular weight sugars that enter the body with fiber from vegetables, fruits and cereals.

The use of antibiotics should be avoided and any diseases during pregnancy should be treated only under medical supervision. Prevention of vaginal dysbiosis involves timely treatment of any genital infections.

It is important to do this before pregnancy. Strengthening the immune system with the help of vitamin complexes prescribed by your doctor will also help. Eating well not only affects your gut flora, but also helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your vagina.

By following the doctor's instructions, leading a healthy lifestyle and avoiding stress, a woman is able to make the difficult period of pregnancy more comfortable for herself and safer for the child.

Is it worth treating dysbiosis during pregnancy?

If some changes in the mother’s body occur without a trace, then there are those that affect her well-being.

Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy is a very common occurrence. There is no need to be afraid of such a diagnosis.

It is best to worry about finding out what is causing this phenomenon and how to try to restore the correct tone of the gastrointestinal tract.

The problem of dysbiosis often occurs in pregnant women, but self-medication in this case would not be appropriate.

It is necessary for a qualified doctor to study the health status of the expectant mother and prescribe an effective course of treatment.

Vaginal dysbiosis

Despite the anticipation of the happiness of motherhood, a woman’s condition often leaves much to be desired. One of the problems is vaginal dysbiosis during pregnancy. Changing the composition of bacteria towards pathogenic ones can bring a lot of trouble. Microbes change the structure of the vaginal walls, making them looser.

If a woman is planning a pregnancy, doctors warn about the need to test for vaginal microflora. In the early stages, it can cause spontaneous abortion.

The main “enemy” of a woman and her unborn baby is anaerobic vaginosis. It can harm the fetus by infecting the membranes and causing premature release of water. Possible infection of the birth canal and the onset of premature labor.

The danger also lies in the fact that at the time of birth, a large number of pathogenic microbes may be in the vagina, which will initially colonize the baby’s digestive system.

Treatment

A peculiarity in the treatment of intestinal dysbiosis of the expectant mother is that many medications are contraindicated. The main condition during the period of bearing a child to normalize the microflora is nutritional adjustment. The doctor may recommend giving up starchy and sweet foods.

Various preparations for the winter that contain brine or marinade are excluded. Dishes that are prepared by frying and that have a large amount of hot spices are prohibited. Canned and smoked foods should be excluded from the diet of pregnant women. It is worth limiting your consumption of whole milk. In addition to the bacteria it contains, it can increase gas in the intestines. All dishes that contain ingredients from the legume family are excluded from the diet.

Signs of dysbiosis

Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy is manifested by the usual signs of microflora disturbance:

bloating;
frequent diarrhea;
heartburn;
heaviness after eating and pain in the umbilical region.

The skin, already suffering during pregnancy, becomes completely dry; in the first months of pregnancy, toxicosis worsens, and even weight loss is possible. If dysbiosis is not treated, it can cause a nervous disorder - irritability, poor sleep, bad mood.

Vaginal dysbiosis can be easily identified by the following symptoms:

a large amount of discharge with an unpleasant odor;
unusual consistency of discharge - too thick or, conversely, liquid;
itching and discomfort in the vaginal area;
The color of the leucorrhoea changes – it becomes dark green.

Vaginal dysbiosis may be accompanied by pain during sexual intercourse.

Why does dysbacteriosis occur?

Dysbacteriosis during pregnancy is a syndrome that accompanies the general condition of the expectant mother, especially if the immune system is severely suppressed. It is not necessary for all women to have it. But there are risk factors:

poor nutrition, lack of vitamins;
unfavorable environmental conditions at the place of residence;
antibiotic therapy;
diseases of the digestive organs (liver and gall bladder).

Vaginosis during pregnancy can be a consequence of hormonal changes. The amount of progesterone increases with a relative decrease in estrogen. This is also a forced measure on the part of a pregnant woman’s body, reducing the risk of fetal rejection. Other factors:

endocrine pathologies;
disturbance of microflora in the intestines;
insufficient intimate hygiene or, conversely, excessive use of soap and douching;
taking antibiotics, especially uncontrolled;
means of hygiene and contraception shortly before pregnancy - tampons, caps, diaphragm;
promiscuity in sexual contacts.

Diagnostics

The following studies can be performed at any stage of pregnancy:

Coprogram

Examination of stool under a microscope allows you to assess the overall function of the intestine, identify disorders of motility and absorption of certain substances. Based on this, we can conclude about the likely development of dysbiosis. For analysis, you should use a morning or evening portion of stool. The collected material can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 24 hours.

Bacteriological culture of stool

The analysis allows us to determine the concentration of the main representatives of normal microflora and evaluate their relationship with each other. Stool culture also makes it possible to detect pathogenic microorganisms. Many laboratories additionally determine the sensitivity of detected microorganisms to antibiotics. For research, it is better to use a fresh morning portion of feces.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound examination of the digestive system does not reveal dysbacteriosis. Using ultrasound, you can detect some intestinal diseases that provoke disruption of the normal biocenosis. The study necessarily evaluates the condition of other organs of the digestive tract, including the stomach, liver and gall bladder.

Endoscopic and x-ray examinations are not carried out during pregnancy.

Complications

Intestinal dysbiosis usually does not pose a threat to a woman’s life. In most cases, the disease only causes significant discomfort to the expectant mother, but does not in any way affect the condition of the fetus. Disruption of normal microflora does not affect the course of labor and the method of delivery.

In some cases, dysbiosis can provoke the activation of opportunistic and pathogenic microorganisms. Penetrating into the blood, infectious agents can cause infection in the fetus. In early pregnancy, this condition can lead to miscarriage. In the second half of pregnancy, severe dysbiosis is dangerous for the development of infectious complications during childbirth and the postpartum period.

How to treat vaginal dysbiosis

Gynecologists divide the treatment of vaginal dysbiosis into two stages - the destruction of pathogenic bacteria with the help of antifungal and antibacterial medications and the “population” of the microenvironment with beneficial microbes. The difficulty of treatment lies in the impossibility of using antifungal and other drugs in the first months of gestation.

During the entire period, three control tests are carried out to determine the state of the vaginal microflora. The goal of treatment is to bring the woman’s birth canal in full order by the due date or at least minimize the risk of infection of the child during childbirth.

Modern medicine offers topical medications that restore the normal number of lactobacilli in the vagina (for example, Lactonorm).