How do you treat nail fungus naturally during pregnancy?

Studies have shown that the prevalence of nail fungus is about 23% of the population in Europe, 20% in East Asia and 14% in North America.

Symptoms of nail fungus may initially include white or yellow spots or streaks on the nail, while you may notice discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail as the infection progresses.

How to naturally prevent nail fungus during pregnancy

While there are several ways to treat nail fungus, in the long run, prevention is the best thing you can do to avoid getting a fungal infection in the first place.

Here are some ways to prevent nail fungus:

Wash your feet regularly with soap and water and be sure to dry them well.
Regularly clean your feet with soap and water, and make sure to dry them well.
Wear shower shoes when showering in public areas.
Avoid wearing shoes or hosiery that are too tight.
Wear shoes made of a material that breathes well.
Wear socks made of synthetic fibers, which help reduce moisture quicker than other fibers.
Change shoes and socks at least a couple times per day.
Keep nails trimmed, clipping them straight across the top.
Disinfect home pedicure tools, including tools used to trim the nails.
Do not use nail polish on infected nails or nails that you suspect may be infected.
If you have a mild fungal infection, a simple daily cleaning of the nail can prevent the infection from worsening. however, if the infection progresses, you can use other remedies.

However, tea tree oil can be used during pregnancy. Three blind comparative trials have shown that tea tree oil is effective in treating nail fungus and relieving the symptoms of athlete's foot.

To use, apply the 100% solution with a cotton swab twice daily for at least 6 months. Do not use tea tree oil if you are sensitive or allergic to turpentine. Also, do not take it by mouth as it can have toxic effects.

WARNING: Although some use snake root extract to treat nail fungus, it is not safe to use during pregnancy.

How to treat toenail fungus during pregnancy if it doesn't work naturally

If you're noticing that your nail is thickening, discoloring, or deformed, it's probably time to see a podiatrist (foot doctor). The sooner you start treatment, the better. If natural remedies don't clear up the fungal infection effectively, your doctor may recommend the following options:

Topical

One option is to file off any white spots on the nail daily, after which over-the-counter antifungal medications can be applied. Your doctor may also prescribe a medicated nail cream to treat nail fungus. However, be sure to talk to your doctor to see if over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medications are safe during pregnancy. Also keep in mind that topical treatments may not completely eliminate the fungus.

Oral antifungals

Oral antifungals promote the growth of healthy new nails, eventually replacing the infected nail. They are usually taken for about three months, although it may take longer to completely get rid of a fungal infection. A common antifungal drug is Lamisil.

This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy. However, it is best to avoid using it while breastfeeding as it is distributed in breast milk.

Some antifungal medications can be harmful to the liver, so your doctor may regularly check for liver damage while you are taking these medications. Your doctor may not recommend oral antifungals if you have liver disease or congestive heart failure.

Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any antifungal medications. Tell them about any other medications you are taking and if you are pregnant so they can recommend the best course of treatment.

Medicated nail polish

Medicated nail polish can also be used to treat a fungal nail infection. Your doctor may prescribe fungal nail polish. This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy, although it is best not to use it while breastfeeding.

To use medicated nail polish, apply it to your nail once a day. After a week, wipe the nail with alcohol to remove layers of polish. Continue to apply daily and cleanse with alcohol once a week. You may need to use this treatment for a year to eliminate the fungus.

Surgery or laser therapy

In severe cases, laser therapy or surgical removal of the nail may be recommended. After surgery, a healthy new nail usually grows back, although this may take up to a year. Laser therapy can also be used to treat nail fungus.