What is a common effect of pregnancy on candida incidence?

During pregnancy, there are significant hormonal and immunological changes that can create a conducive environment for the overgrowth of Candida species, particularly Candida albicans. Increased levels of estrogen and glycogen in the vaginal environment can lead to alterations in the normal flora, promoting yeast infections. This results in a higher incidence of vulvovaginal candidiasis among pregnant individuals.

The immune system of a pregnant person also undergoes adaptations to tolerate the fetus, which may reduce the ability to suppress opportunistic infections such as candida. Therefore, the correct understanding of the relationship between pregnancy and Candida incidence acknowledges that the physiological changes associated with pregnancy generally lead to an increased risk of developing candidiasis.