Yeast infections are a common concern, often leading to discomfort and irritation. Caused by the fungus Candida, these infections can cause inflammation, intense itchiness, and a thick, white discharge from the vagina. They can also create pain or a burning feeling during urination or sex. Normally, a healthy vagina’s acidic pH level inhibits yeast growth, but it doesn’t take much to disrupt this balance.
Determining whether you have a yeast infection without an examination can be challenging. Candida vaginitis, often referred to as a “yeast” or monilial infection, is caused by several species of fungi. These fungi are normally present in the vagina in very small amounts and do not usually cause problems. However, they can overgrow under certain conditions.
When too much yeast grows on your skin or other areas, it can cause an infection. Candidiasis, a common yeast infection, can occur if your skin gets damaged or in warm, humid conditions. It can also happen if you have a weak immune system.
Yeast infections are caused by an imbalance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina. Certain antibiotics, for instance, can disrupt this balance, leading to an overgrowth of yeast. Other risk factors include pregnancy or health conditions like diabetes. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is another common vaginal condition.
Symptoms of a yeast infection include itching, burning, redness, or swelling around the vaginal opening, and a white, thick, or clumpy discharge. Yeast infections are not typically sexually transmitted. They are usually treated with vaginal creams or suppositories available over-the-counter.
While yeast infections can cause severe discomfort, they rarely lead to serious health problems. Often, untreated vaginal yeast infections clear up on their own, usually when menstruation begins. Menstrual blood raises the vaginal pH, causing the number of yeast cells to decrease.
Your doctor may want to do a culture to determine the type of yeast. Candida albicans is the most common cause of vaginal yeast infections, but other species like C. glabrata or C. tropicalis may also be responsible and can require different treatments.
For more detailed information, explore these resources:
Daily Habits That Can Lead to a Yeast Infection
Maintaining Vaginal Health – Cornell University
Yeast Infection – University of Rochester Medical Center
Recurrent Yeast Infections | Baylor Medicine
Vaginitis University of Rochester Medical Center
Vaginitis (yeast infection BV trich) – Student Health Center
Yeast Infection | Health Promotion | Brown University
Ask the Doctor: Can I Treat Myself for a Yeast Infection?
