What Is the Cause of Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection is caused by a type of fungus named Candida albicans. Candida is a naturally residing organism found in the digestive tract and the vagina, and normally it causes no problems, as the workings of the immune system and the helpful bacteria in the body can keep it regulated at a safe level of growth. However, if the pH balance of the vagina reaches a more alkaline level, Candida will grow unchecked and cause a yeast infection, also known as Candidiasis.

Various types of bodily changes can bring about Candidiasis, including stress, fatigue, menstruation, pregnancy, diabetes, and the effects of taking birth control pills, antibiotics, or steroids. Post-menopausal women are considered at greater risk for getting a yeast infection. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, around 80% of all women will be afflicted by a vaginal yeast infection at least once during their lives.

There are a number of common symptoms that indicate a vaginal yeast infection. These include vaginal itching and burning, a burning sensation during urination, pain during sexual intercourse, irritation or redness of the vulva, and the production of a mostly odorless white vaginal discharge that is often said to resemble cottage cheese.

If you experience any of the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, be sure to get a qualified medical opinion on your condition. Although the signs of your condition may point to Candidiasis, it is also possible that they may be caused by a bacterial infection, which needs to be treated differently from a fungal infection. Also, around 20% of vaginal yeast infections are caused not by Candida albicans, but by a different species of Candida, in which case a more specialized form of treatment may be required. Note that vaginal discharge may occur between women’s menstruation periods, but if the discharge is not accompanied by itchiness, you are unlikely to have Candidiasis. Also note that is possible for vaginal irritation to be caused by the use of products such as douches, feminine hygiene sprays, spermicides, bubble baths, and perfumed soaps.

There are a number of over the counter medications available without a prescription for treating vaginal yeast infections. However, you should be certain that you have a yeast infection before using these types of medications. Although most people tend not to think of a vaginal yeast infection as a sexually transmitted disease or STD, the fact is that it is possible for you to infect your partner with it through sexual intercourse. Thus if you think you have a yeast infection, you should seek to avoid sexual activity until after you get treatment and have cured your condition.

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