Yeast Infection
Also known as: Candidiasis
What is it?
A yeast infection is a common type of
vaginal infection. Its main symptom is a thick, cottage cheese-like discharge from the vagina.
Who gets it?
Some women get yeast infections frequently, but for no apparent reason. However, women who are taking antibiotics; have frequent, vigorous sex; or take birth control pills may have a greater risk of getting a yeast infection. Yeast infections also tend to worsen the week before the menstrual period. Women with immune system deficiencies, such as AIDS; women who are pregnant; and women with uncontrolled diabetes may also get repeated yeast infections.
What causes it?
Everyone has yeast organisms in the rectum and vagina. However, a yeast infection occurs when there are too many yeast organisms and a fungus begins to grow. This can be caused by any of the conditions listed under “Who gets it?”, as well as poor personal hygiene and tight-fitting clothing or synthetic underwear that create too much heat and moisture in the genital area.
What are the symptoms?
A yeast infection causes a vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese, as well as moderate to severe itching and discomfort. The discharge rarely has an odor. The vulva and vagina may burn, especially when you go to the bathroom or have sex. When the vagina is itchy, red, and sore, it is called
vaginitis.
How is it diagnosed?
If you think you have a yeast infection, you should see your doctor. Your doctor will be able to make a diagnosis based upon the type of discharge you have. He or she may also perform an internal examination.
What is the treatment?
Yeast infections may be treated with vaginal suppositories that contain medicine to cure the infection or a tablet containing fluconazole, which is taken in a single oral dose. You may also need to use a vaginal cream to reduce soreness and itchiness. You will need a prescription from your doctor for these treatments. There are also many non-prescription treatments for yeast infections. If you have never had a yeast infection, are not sure that you have a yeast infection, or are sexually active, you should see your doctor before trying any non-prescription treatments. Some sexually transmitted infections may have similar symptoms and will not respond to these prescription or non-prescription treatments. The sexual partners of women with yeast infections do not need to be treated. With treatment, most vaginal yeast infections clear up within one week.
Self-care tips
You can help prevent yeast infections by keeping your genital and rectal area clean and dry; wearing clean, cotton underwear each day; wiping from front to back after you go to the bathroom; douching no more than once per month; and avoiding vaginal deodorants. Although its benefit has not been proven, some believe that eating yogurt containing the Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria will help prevent yeast infections.
Specialists who treat this condition
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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