Several women suffer from vaginal yeast infection, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis or vaginal candidiasis. It occurs when the yeast Candida, which normally lives in the vagina, grows out of control and causes irritation, itching, swelling, and discharge. This blog post discusses the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of vaginal yeast infection.
The vagina contains a balance of bacteria and yeast that help keep it healthy and prevent infections. However, sometimes this balance can be disrupted by various factors, such as:
Antibiotics, which can kill the good bacteria that keep the yeast in check.
Pregnancy, which can change the hormonal levels and pH of the vagina.
Uncontrolled diabetes, which can raise the blood sugar levels and make the vagina more favorable for yeast growth.
Weak immune system, which can make it harder to fight off infections.
Hormonal imbalance, which can occur near the menstrual cycle, during menopause, or due to birth control pills or hormone therapy.
Stress, which can affect the immune system and the vaginal flora.
When the yeast Candida grows too much, it can cause a vaginal yeast infection. The most common type of Candida that causes yeast infections is Candida albicans, but other types of Candida can also be involved.
The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can vary from person to person, but they typically include:
Vaginal itching, burning, and soreness.
Redness and swelling of the vulva (the external part of the vagina).
Pain or discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse.
Thick, white, and clumpy vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese. The discharge may also be watery or have a slight odor.
Sometimes, a rash or sores may appear on the vulva or around the anus.
Not everyone who has a vaginal yeast infection experiences symptoms, or has the same symptoms. Some people may have mild symptoms that go away on their own, while others may have severe symptoms that interfere with their daily life.
Your healthcare provider will ask you about your medical history, symptoms, and any medications or products you use if you suspect you have a vaginal yeast infection. It is also possible for them to take a sample of your vaginal discharge and send it to a lab for testing. They will also perform a pelvic exam to look for signs of infection in your vaginal and cervix. Infection caused by Candida can be confirmed by a lab test.
A vaginal yeast infection can have similar symptoms to other conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so getting a diagnosis from your provider is important. If left untreated, these conditions may have serious complications and may require different treatments.
If you have vaginal yeast infection, the treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the type of Candida involved. The most common treatment is antifungal medication, which can be applied directly to the vagina as a cream, ointment, suppository, or tablet, or taken by mouth as a pill. The duration of the treatment can range from one to seven days, depending on the medication and the infection.
Some examples of antifungal medications that are used to treat vaginal yeast infections are:
Clotrimazole
Miconazole
Terconazole
Fluconazole
Butoconazole
Regardless of how your symptoms improve or disappear, you should follow the instructions of your provider and the medication label carefully, and complete the entire course of treatment. If you stop the treatment too soon, the infection may return or you may become resistant to it.
If you have the infection, you should avoid sexual contact until it has cleared, or use a condom to prevent it from spreading. Tampons, douches, perfumed products, and tight-fitting clothing can irritate the vagina or trap moisture.
If you have recurrent or chronic yeast infections, meaning you have four or more yeast infections in a year, you may need a longer or more intensive treatment. To prevent future infections, your provider may prescribe a higher dose or a longer course of antifungal medication. Moreover, they may suggest testing for diabetes, HIV, or thyroid problems that may be contributing to yeast overgrowth.
There are some steps you can take to prevent or reduce the risk of getting a vaginal yeast infection, such as:
Eating a balanced diet that includes yogurt or other probiotic foods that can help maintain the vaginal flora.
Avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics, which can kill the good bacteria and cause yeast overgrowth.
Controlling your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes, which can make the vagina more prone to yeast infections.
Wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing that allow the vagina to breathe and stay dry.
Changing your underwear, pads, or tampons frequently, especially after sweating or swimming.
Wiping from front to back after using the toilet, to prevent spreading bacteria or yeast from the anus to the vagina.
Practicing good hygiene and washing the vagina with water only, or with a mild soap if needed. Avoid using douches, perfumed products, or harsh cleansers that can disrupt the vaginal pH and flora.
Practicing safe sex and using condoms or dental dams to prevent transmitting or acquiring infections from your partner.
You should speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about vaginal yeast infections. You don’t have to suffer in silence for vaginal yeast infections, as they are common and treatable. They can provide you with more information and advice on how to treat and prevent them.
