What is Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Vaginal yeast infections are common and about 75% of women will have one episode of vaginal yeast infection at some time in their lifetime. It is caused by overgrowth of yeast organisms that normally live in small numbers on normal skin and inside vagina.

What causes this imbalance of acidity in your vagina?

The acidity of the vagina helps keep the yeast from growing. If this pH balance is affected and the vagina loses its acidity, yeast can outgrow and take over, causing a vaginal infection.

The following are potential contributing factors to vaginal yeast infection.

- Menstrual period

- Pregnancy

- Uncontrolled Diabetes

- Certain medications like antibiotics, steroids or birth control pills

- Sexual activity

- Irritation of the vagina

- Vaginal douching

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include the following:

• Itching and burning in the vagina and around the vulva (the skin that surrounds your vagina)
• A thick, white colored cottage cheese like or curdy discharge
• You may have pain during sexual intercourse
• Swelling of the vulva

How can I keep from getting another infection?

• Avoid vaginal douching
• Avoid non-breathable or tight-fitting underwear or clothing
• Avoid using any chemical hygiene products including deodorant sanitary pads, feminine hygiene sprays, tampons, or bubble bath
• Build a habit to wipe from front to back after using the toilet, preventing bacteria that normally live in your rectum from getting into your vaginal area
• Consider a suppression plan that you take daily for a few weeks to months to prevent recurrent episodes of yeast infection if you have frequent recurrent infections