Clotrimazole
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Clotrimazole can be used in pregnancy and is the first-choice treatment for thrush.
What is it?
Clotrimazole cream and pessaries (Canesten®) are used to treat vaginal thrush. Clotrimazole can be bought over the counter.
Benefits
What are the benefits of using clotrimazole in pregnancy?
Clotrimazole is an effective treatment for thrush and improves quality of life by relieving symptoms such as itching, burning, and vaginal discharge.
Risks
Are there any risks of using clotrimazole during pregnancy?
There are no known risks of using clotrimazole in pregnancy.
Alternatives
Are there any alternatives to using clotrimazole?
Possibly. Other antifungal medicines are available, but clotrimazole is usually the first choice for use in pregnancy as it is considered to be the safest option.
No treatment
What if I prefer not to use clotrimazole during pregnancy?
Untreated thrush can affect quality of life, and in some studies, has been linked to a higher chance of preterm delivery. A doctor or midwife will discuss any concerns you may have about using clotrimazole in pregnancy.
Will my baby need extra monitoring?
You will be offered a very detailed scan at around 20 weeks of pregnancy as part of your routine antenatal care. Using clotrimazole in pregnancy is not expected to cause problems that would require any extra monitoring of your baby prior to birth.
Are there any risks to my baby if the father has used clotrimazole?
We would not expect any increased risk to your baby if the father uses clotrimazole.
Who can I talk to if I have questions?
If you have any questions about the information in this leaflet, please discuss them with your health care provider. They can access more detailed medical and scientific information from www.uktis.org.