Vaginal Yeast Infection Overview

A yeast infection is caused by a fungus by the name of Candida. Candida is a bacterium that is typically found in the body. While a yeast infection can happen in several different parts of the body, the most common  for a woman is a vaginal yeast infection.  This type of organism typically never leads to infection unless the vagina becomes less acidic than it normally is. The acidic environment found in the vagina is usually high enough to protect against yeasts. However different things can change the balance and lead to infection. Things like being pregnant, using certain soaps, birth control pills as well as many different types of antibiotics. Moisture and wearing tight clothes can also lead to a yeast infection.

How to Know That It Is a Yeast Infection

Yeast infections can have several different symptoms. The symptoms are as follows:

• Itching and burning, including severe itching both inside the vagina and around the vulva.

• Vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese.

• Swelling in the vagina and/or the vulva.

• Pain during sexual intercourse.

Should I Go To the Doctor for a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

If you suspect that you have a yeast infection and you have never had one before, you definitely want to go to the doctor to be sure that it is a yeast infection and not an STD. Some STD’s can mimic the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection so it is always better to be safe. Your doctor can also help to prescribe stronger medication if a yeast infection medication is not working.

How to Treat a Vaginal Yeast Infection

In today’s world you have many options in treating a vaginal yeast infection. You can find seven day creams that are placed inside the vagina and placed on the vulva to help relieve the symptoms, 3 day creams that include a suppository that dissolves over 3 days or you can choose the pill which reduces symptoms within one day.

Is My Sexual Partner at Risk?

Yes. If you have a sexual partner they can be at risk for getting a yeast infection. If your partner suspects that they have a yeast infection they should consult their doctor as soon as possible. Treatments for both you and your sexual partner would help to prevent the spread of a yeast infection.

Preventing a Vaginal Yeast Infection

Here are some tips on how to prevent a yeast infection:

• Do not wear any tight fitting clothing. This causes moisture for perspiration.

• Only wear panties that are made out of cotton.

• Stay away from pantyhose.

• Wipe from front to back when going to the bathroom. This reduces the amount of bacteria.

• Use a blow dryer to dry off your genitals after showering or swimming.

• Do not leave a wet swimsuit or wet clothing on for long.

• Do not use a douche. These actually can cause a yeast infection as they wash away the acid in the vagina that would normally prevent a yeast infection.

• Stay away from hygiene spray or any deodorant pads or tampons.

• During your period change pads frequently.

• Stay away from scented toilet paper.

Remember to keep yourself as dry as possible to help prevent vaginal yeast infections. Studies have also shown eating a diet full of yogurt and other probiotics can prevent vaginal yeast infections.