From the Research
In the setting of a yeast infection, a cervical balloon catheter can still be used for labor induction, but treatment of the infection should ideally occur first with a single oral dose of fluconazole 150mg, as it has been shown to be effective in treating vaginal candidiasis 1. When using a cervical balloon catheter in the presence of a yeast infection, it is essential to consider the following:
- The mechanical action of the balloon is separate from the infectious process, allowing for its use in labor induction despite the presence of a yeast infection.
- The healthcare provider should use sterile technique during insertion to avoid spreading the infection higher into the uterus.
- After placement, monitor for signs of chorioamnionitis, including maternal fever, uterine tenderness, or foul-smelling discharge.
- The presence of a yeast infection may cause additional discomfort during balloon placement, so adequate pain management should be considered.
- The balloon catheter works by applying pressure to the cervix to stimulate prostaglandin release and mechanical dilation, which is not significantly impacted by the superficial fungal infection of the vaginal mucosa. According to a systematic review, the use of a balloon catheter for cervical ripening in outpatient care has been shown to be safe, with a low risk of adverse events 2. It is also important to note that antifungal treatment, such as fluconazole, can be effective in treating Candida species, but may not completely eradicate the infection in the presence of a catheter 3, 4. Overall, the use of a cervical balloon catheter in the setting of a yeast infection requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits, as well as appropriate management of the infection and monitoring for complications.