Final answer:
The presence of higher levels of glycogen in the patient's vaginal secretions increases the risk of yeast infections in a postpartum patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of higher levels of glycogen in the patient's vaginal secretions increases the risk of yeast infections in a postpartum patient.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can shift the microbiota composition in the vagina, leading to higher rates of infections such as candidiasis or vaginosis. Additionally, low levels of estrogen in postpartum patients are associated with an increased vaginal pH and a higher risk of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
It is important to note that yeast infections are typically treated with antifungal medications, not antibiotics.