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How can nail fungus be treated during pregnancy?
A nail fungus ( nail mycosis ) unfortunately does not stop in pregnant women either. The common fungal pathogen that gradually destroys the nails is highly contagious.
In the following, I will explain to you how infection occurs and what you should pay attention to during treatment during pregnancy.
Causes of nail mycosis during pregnancy
Skin fungi trigger nail fungus. These so-called dermatophytes (thread fungi) are mainly responsible for the infection.
An intact immune system can usually fight off the pathogen.
However, during pregnancy, a hormonal change takes place in the body that makes it easier for the fungus to lodge in the upper skin of the feet and nails.
The immune system is also more stressed in pregnant women, as it also has to protect the child. This makes it easier for the fungus to attack the pregnant woman’s skin.
- Hormonal change
- The immune system is more stressed
- Gestational diabetes
Anyone who has gestational diabetes also has an increased risk of nail fungus due to the reduced blood flow to the legs and poorer wound healing.
Pregnant women should make sure that they wear comfortable and appropriate shoes. This will prevent minor injuries to the toes and nails.
If a wound does occur, the fungus can enter the skin and nail and spread.
Treating nail fungus during pregnancy
In a pregnancy, until you try as much as possible on the use of drugs to dispense.
If the affected nail is still in the early stages of infection, it can be treated with topical medication.
There are different preparations and active ingredients. The treatment of nail fungus and the appropriate medication should always be discussed with the doctor.
Nail fungus in pregnancy is not a case for self-medication.
In the event of an infection, the gynecologist or dermatologist should always be consulted.
If an advanced stage has already been reached, the medication for external use may no longer be sufficient. Then the doctor usually prescribes combination therapy with oral tablets.
Particularly during pregnancy, careful attention must always be paid to which medication can be used for nail fungus.
Overview of active ingredients for external use
Overview of active ingredients for internal therapy
Terbinafine 250 mg tablets
Do not use during pregnancy unless the woman’s disease requires oral terbinafine treatment and the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the potential risks to the unborn child.
In particular, it is not recommended to use it in the first three months of pregnancy.
Breastfeeding must be suspended during treatment with terbinafine.
Fluconazole 50 mg / 150 mg hard capsules
May only be used during pregnancy if necessary in standard doses and as short-term therapy.
If you are breastfeeding, it is not recommended to breastfeed if you take it repeatedly.
Itraconazole 100 mg hard capsules
Must not be used during pregnancy, except in life-threatening situations.
Breastfeeding should not be performed during treatment.
Another treatment option is medical foot care. The podiatrist can remove the excess nail mass with suitable instruments, making the treatment more accessible.
However, the therapy should then be continued in combination with the doctor.
Home remedies for pregnancy
Some home remedies are said to have a fungicidal effect. The problem with many of these natural remedies is that no clinical study or evidence suggests they work.
The attending physician always offers the best help, and a podiatrist (medical foot care) can also be involved in the treatment.
How can you protect yourself from nail fungus during pregnancy?
The best way to protect yourself from nail fungus is not to go barefoot in public places. Shoes or socks should always be worn in swimming pools, hotel rooms, changing rooms, or sports halls.
Another critical point is always to use your nail care kit and not share clothes or towels with other people.
In addition, the laundry should be washed at least 60 ° C to kill any fungal spores that may be present. Hygienic washers can be used at lower temperatures.