Yeast Infection:
A fungal infection in the vagina that results in itching, burning sensation, and white vaginal discharge is commonly known as a yeast infection. Having yeast in your vagina is normal but if it becomes uncontrollable this could result in yeast infection.
In a study by Center for Disease Control (CDC), it was found that about 75% of women experience one yeast infection in their life and around 40-45% will experience two or more than two yeast infection. And then there are some women that experience many yeast infections in their life.
What Causes Yeast Infections?
Yeast infections are caused by the overgrowth of a fungus called Candida (yeast). Yeast along with other organisms is found in your vagina and when the balance of organisms is upset and there is an excessive growth of yeast it causes a yeast infection. Usually, yeast infections are noticed right before or after a menstrual period. Yeast infections can happen to women of all ages.
The balance of organism can be changed by:
• Antibiotics
• Being overweight.
• Suffering from stress.
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy
• HIV infection
• Steroids
• Weak Immune system.
• Using douche products.
• Contraceptive/ birth control pills.
• Wearing tight underwear of nylon or Lycra material.
Symptoms of a Yeast Infection:
When experiencing a vaginal yeast infection following are the most common symptoms you will have;
• Itching
• Vaginal Discharge (Thick, chunky, and cottage cheese like)
• Discharge color – milky white or light yellow discharge
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Irritation
• Odorless
Severe yeast infection may cause following symptoms:
• Swelling of labia (lips outside vagina)
• Pain while passing urine because of sore tissues
• Inflammation during sexual intercourse
Yeast Infection Treatment:
Yeast infections don’t really lead to serious problems. But the fact yeast infections are irritating and unpleasant you should get yourself checked by a health-care provider (HCP) and get it treated. Once yeast infection is diagnosed you go for the treatment preferably prescribed by your health care provider (HCP). Usually, yeast infection is treated by a pill, vaginal cream or vaginal suppository. You can use a pill if you are reluctant to use cream inside your vagina. Some vaginal creams can be purchased over-the-counter and some with a prescription. But it is always better to consult a Health-care provider (HCP) before taking any medications because these medications would not treat other bacterial vaginal infections and sexually transmitted infections (STI’s).
How to Prevent Yeast Infection:
Following are things you can do to lower the risk of getting a yeast infection;
• Take antibiotics only when prescribed.
• Wearing cotton material underwear.
• Wear loose-fitting lowers/pants.
• Change your tampons/pads when on period.
• Change our wet bathing suits into dry clothes.
• Never use vaginal douche products.
As you know yeast infections are very common and about 75% get affected it. It is likely to be that you may have at least one yeast infection in your life. When you experience abnormal vaginal discharge and the symptoms are most likely to be a yeast infection, consult your health-care provider and never self-treat yourself