Vaginal Yeast infection is a common fungal infection caused by Candida or yeast.
Yeast Infection can affect any part of your body.
It also can affect the mouth and is called thrush.
If the same Yeast infection is in the genitals is called a vaginal yeast infection. It can affect your skin also.
What is Vaginal Yeast infection?
Vaginal yeast infection or Vaginitis is an infection of the vagina extremely common in women.
Men can also get yeast on the penis.
There are different types of vaginal yeast infections. It is caused by the overgrowth of Candida or yeast cells in the vagina.
What are the Causes of Vaginal Infection?
A healthy vagina has a normal amount of Candida. Infections or some other causes make the overgrowth of Candida in the vagina which leads to Vaginal yeast infection.
There are several reasons that change the balance of the normal number of yeast cells in the vagina.
Some of them are:
- Use of antibiotics
- Use of birth control pills
- Some health conditions like diabetes, HIV infection, etc.
- Pregnancy
- Unhealthy lifestyle
What are the Common Symptoms?
Some of the common symptoms seen in vaginal yeast infection are:
- Itching in vagina
- Burning sensation in vagina
- Swelling
- White thick discharge
- Pain during intercourse
How it can be Diagnosed?
- If there are symptoms of this infection, then consult your doctor immediately.
- The doctor will ask you about your health history and do various laboratory and physical examinations as needed.
How it can be Treated?
- The treatment of this infection depends on the severity of the infection and its type.
- There are antifungal creams and pills to treat it. Many of them are available without a prescription.
- If it is not a mild infection, consult the doctor. He can recommend the best treatment method.
- Pregnant women should consult a doctor for a yeast infection before using any antibiotics or pills.
- Alternative therapies are also available to treat yeast infection.
How can it be Prevented?
It can be prevented in various ways. You can reduce the risk by:
- Practicing good hygiene
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting underwear
- Don’t use clothes or synthetics such as nylon.
- Avoid douches
- Wear loose-fitting and cotton underwear
- Have a healthy diet
- Avoid using feminine products like deodorant pads or perfumed douches
- Avoid frequent hot tub bath
- Change swimming suits or wets clothes immediately