Vaginal Yeast Infections

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

Vaginal Yeast is a fungus that normally lives in the vagina in small numbers. A vaginal yeast infection means that too many yeast cells are growing in the vagina. Although vaginal yeast infections are very common, they are not usually serious.

Causes of vaginal yeast infection?

Most of vaginal yeast infections are caused by a type of yeast called Candida albicans.

A healthy vagina has many bacteria and a small number of yeast cells. The most common bacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus, help keep other organisms-like the yeast-under control.

When something change the balance of these organisms, yeast can grow too much and cause symptoms.

• Taking antibiotics sometimes causes this imbalance. 
• The high estrogen levels caused by pregnancy or hormone therapy can also cause it. 
• Certain health problems, like diabetes or HIV infection.

Yeast infections are common during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, don't use medicine for a yeast infection without talking to your doctor first.

Many women have infections that come back. If you have more than four yeast infections in a year, see your doctor. He or she may do some tests to see if your yeast infections are being caused by another health problem, such as diabetes.

Symptoms of vaginal yeast infection?

A yeast infection causes itching or soreness in the vagina and sometimes causes pain or burning when you urinate or have sex. Some women also have a thick, clumpy, white discharge that has no odor and looks a little like cottage cheese.

Treatments of vaginal yeast infection?

Anti-fungal cream, or a suppository that you put into your vagina, or anti-fungal tablets are used for treatments.

If symptoms are mild, wait to see if they clear up on their own.

If you use a cream or suppository to treat the infection, don't depend on a condom or diaphragm for birth control. The oil in some medicines weakens latex, the material often used to make these devices.

Prevention of vaginal yeast infections?

Practice good genital hygiene.

• After using the toilet, wipe from front to back to avoid spreading yeast or bacteria from your anus to the vagina or urinary tract.
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing, such as panty hose, and tight-fitting jeans. These may increase body heat and moisture in your genital area.
• Change out of a wet swimsuit right away. Wearing a wet swimsuit for many hours may keep your genital area warm and moist.
• Change pads or tampons often.
• Don't douche or use deodorant tampons or feminine sprays, powders, or perfumes. These items can change the normal balance of organisms in your vagina.
• Keep your vaginal area clean. Use mild, unscented soap and water. Rinse well.
• Wear underwear that helps keep your genital area dry and doesn't hold in warmth and moisture. One good choice is cotton underwear.