Q: I am a 33 years old woman into my 12th week of pregnancy. Last week my private parts started itching. I consulted my doctor who told me that it was a fungal infection. She prescribed Candida medicine, which I need to insert into my vagina for three days. Is it safe? Is it normal to get fungal infection?

A:You have to get evaluated for diabetes, as it is the most important causative factor for Candida infection, even in pregnancy. Ruling out this factor will prevent recurrences of infection, as well as other fetal problems which may develop if diabetes is present. If there is a positive family history, then a repeat test maybe necessary even after fifth month of pregnancy.