A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection
that causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness of the vagina and the
vulva. It is a type of inflammation of
the vagina. Vaginal yeast infection is also called vaginal candidiasis. Although
a vaginal yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection,
it can be spread through mouth to genital contact.
that causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness of the vagina and the
vulva. It is a type of inflammation of
the vagina. Vaginal yeast infection is also called vaginal candidiasis. Although
a vaginal yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection,
it can be spread through mouth to genital contact.
Signs and
symptoms of vagina yeast infections
symptoms of vagina yeast infections
Vagina yeast infection symptoms may include:
- Itching
and irritation in the vagina and the tissues at the vaginal opening
(vulva) - A
burning sensation, especially during intercourse or while urinating - Redness
and swelling of the vulva - Vaginal
pain and soreness - Vaginal
rash - Watery
vaginal discharge - Thick,
white, odour-free vaginal discharge.
Causes of
vagina yeast infections
vagina yeast infections
The fungus candida causes a vaginal yeast
infection. The vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast, including
candida, and bacteria. However, too much yeast in the vagina causes vaginal
itching, burning and other classic signs and symptoms of a yeast infection. Overgrowth
of yeast can result from:
infection. The vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast, including
candida, and bacteria. However, too much yeast in the vagina causes vaginal
itching, burning and other classic signs and symptoms of a yeast infection. Overgrowth
of yeast can result from:
- Uncontrolled
antibiotic use - Pregnancy
- Uncontrolled
diabetes - Impaired
immune system - Taking
oral contraceptives or hormone therapy, which increases estrogen levels
Prevention
of vagina yeast infection
of vagina yeast infection
To reduce your risk of vaginal yeast infections:
- Wear
cotton underwear and loose-fitting pants or skirts. - Avoid
tight-fitting underwear or pants - Immediately
change out of wet clothes, such as swimsuits - Stay
out of hot tubs and very hot baths. - Avoid
unnecessary antibiotic use, such as for colds or other viral infections.
