No, having a yeast infection will not directly affect your chances of getting pregnant. But the itchiness and irritation a yeast infection causes probably won’t put you in the mood for intercourse.
Yeast infections are caused by a common fungus called Candida. Normally, the acid balance of the vagina keeps this fungus from multiplying. But a change in the acidity of the vagina – often due to illness, menstruation, pregnancy, some antibiotics, or birth control pills – can encourage yeast growth. Moist, tight clothing such as a wet bathing suit can also provide a prime breeding ground for yeast.
The main symptoms of a yeast infection are itchiness and a white, cheesy discharge. You may also have burning, irritation, and a rash on the outer lips of the vagina.
Yeast infections are very easy to treat with over-the-counter vaginal antifungal medications or the oral prescription drug Diflucan (fluconazole). Most treatments work in one to seven days. There is no danger in having sex while you’re taking antifungal medications, but intercourse may further irritate the area and delay healing.
If your symptoms don’t go away after you finish taking the medication, see your doctor, who can test for other infections that have similar symptoms. Unlike a yeast infection, chlamydia and gonorrhea (which infect the cervix and can cause scarring and blockage of your fallopian tubes) can hurt your chances of getting pregnant.