Vaginal yeast infections are not only common, but they’re one of the most common vaginal infections out there. The vagina is a moist environment home to lots of bacteria and yeast, leading to a vaginal infection. About one in five women in the United States will experience a yeast infection during her life. That’s why you need to know both the basics and advanced facts about vaginal yeast infections (VYI).
1. What Causes Vaginal Yeast Infections?
Vaginal yeast infections are caused by Candida, a yeast found in the vagina. Usually, there’s no overgrowth of this yeast in the vagina, but when there is an overgrowth, it can lead to vaginal itching and burning, along with a thick or cottage cheese-like discharge.
Many factors can cause Candida to grow more than usual, such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, antibiotic use, and birth control pills. Apart from the apparent (sex, antibiotics, and the pill), even long-term stress can cause your body to produce more yeast than usual, causing a candida overgrowth, which can lead to a yeast infection.
2. Who’s at Risk of Vaginal Yeast Infections?
Vaginal yeast infections are so common that everyone is at risk of them at some point in their life. Based on data collected by The National Women’s Health Resource Center, about one in five women will experience a yeast infection during her lifetime.
That’s more than half of all women! If you’ve ever suffered from a yeast infection, you know that it can be painful and inconvenient.
3. How Do You Know If You Have Vaginal Yeast Infections?
Vaginal yeast infections are so common that if you have one, chances are you’ll recognize it right away. They’re often not severe or uncomfortable, although they can burn and itch like crazy. The symptoms you’ll experience will tell you if you have a yeast infection or something else.
The most common yeast infection symptoms are:
- Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
- Viginal rash
- A thick and white vaginal discharge
- Vagina and vulva inflammation
- Redness and swelling of the vulva and vagina
- Burning sensation during intercourse or while urinating
If you’re not sure what’s causing your symptoms, your doctor can diagnose the infection with a straightforward test. Your doctor will perform a vaginal swab and analyze it under the microscope to check for signs of an overgrowth of candida.
4. How Can You Treat Vaginal Yeast Infections?
You can treat a yeast infection with over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medications, such as a prescription drug Terconazole Vaginal Cream 0.4%. These medications help kill off the yeast, thereby helping to prevent a reoccurrence.
With proper treatment, you can begin to feel better after just one or two days of taking medication. For those who don’t want to use prescription medications, you may also consider other natural treatment options, such as garlic, oregano oil, or tea tree oil.
These natural remedies have been shown to kill the yeast fungus that causes yeast infections effectively. Just remember that any time you’re considering a treatment option other than prescription medications, it’s essential to talk to your doctor first.
5. What Else Can You Do?
You can prevent a yeast infection from happening again by making simple changes in your daily routine. If you’re taking antibiotics, consider taking probiotics to help prevent a reoccurrence. Also, don’t wear tight pants or underwear (especially if they have synthetic materials) and wear cotton instead.
Finally, steer clear of pantyhose and tight-fitting clothes. These clothes can trap moisture in your skin and make a yeast infection more likely to happen.
