Vaginal yeast infections are a form of fungal infection. Your body includes a yeast called candida, which causes vaginal yeast infections. When this yeast is in equilibrium in your body, there are no difficulties. However, when the yeast is out of equilibrium, it rapidly expands and can cause a yeast infection. A yeast infection causes burning, itching, and redness in your vulva (the outermost area of your vagina), as well as changes in your vaginal discharge. Yeast infections are not sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Other terms for a vaginal yeast infection include vulvovaginal candidiasis and vaginal candidiasis. A vaginal yeast infection is a kind of vaginitis, which is characterized by swelling, discomfort, and inflammation. Vaginitis is classified into numerous categories, each with identical symptoms, however vaginal yeast infections are among the most prevalent. Up to 75% of women or adults assigned female at birth (AFAB) will develop at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime, with more than half getting two or more. Yeast infections are the second most common cause of vaginitis.
What are the signs and symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection?
There are various indicators of a vaginal yeast infection. Symptoms can include:
- Itchy or burning sensations in the vagina and vulva.
- A thick, white vaginal discharge having the texture of cottage cheese.
- Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva.
- Because of the fragility of the skin in the area, your vulva may have little wounds or tiny fissures.
- A scorching sensation when peeing.
Yeast infection symptoms are comparable to those experienced by people with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other vaginal infections.
What are some causes of Vaginal Yeast infections to keep an eye out for?
When the microorganisms in your vagina are out of balance, candida can thrive. This may occur for a variety of causes, including:
- Taking antibiotics: Antibiotics used to treat diseases in the body kill the beneficial bacteria in your vagina. Good bacteria control yeast growth. A yeast infection occurs when the equilibrium shifts due to a lack of beneficial bacteria.
- Pregnancy and hormones: Anything that interrupts or affects your hormones can upset the equilibrium of candida in your vagina. This includes pregnancy, using birth control pills, and experiencing normal changes during your menstrual cycle.
- Having uncontrolled diabetes: High blood sugar levels affect the microorganisms in your pee.
- Having a weaker immune system: If you have HIV or AIDS, your drugs may suppress your immune system. Chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer can both depress the immune system.
How do yeast infections get diagnosed?
Your doctor identifies a vaginal yeast infection. You’ll need to schedule an appointment and discuss your symptoms. To confirm a yeast infection, your doctor may need to obtain a sample of your vaginal discharge. The combination of your symptoms and the discharge sample will inform your doctor the sort of yeast infection you have and how to treat it.
What are some factors that increase your risk of getting a yeast infection?
Certain factors can raise your chance of contracting a vaginal yeast infection. Some of these are:
- Taking antibiotics, birth control pills, or some steroids.
- Being pregnant.
- Having a medical issue that weakens your immune system.
- Having untreated diabetes.
- Sitting in a damp swimming suit.
- Not getting out of sweaty garments.
- Wearing scented tampons or applying vaginal deodorant.
Vaginal yeast infections, while painful, are fairly common and affect millions of women. They are caused by an overgrowth of yeast that occurs naturally. They cause itching, burning, and discharge. Fortunately, they can be easily identified and treated with over-the-counter drugs or a doctor’s prescription. If you encounter any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to see a healthcare provider for a precise diagnosis and relief.