Vaginal yeast infection is a common female condition which is caused by the fungus Candida. It is often accompanied by itching, swelling and irritation.
3 out of 4 women experience a yeast infection at one point in their lives, according to the Mayo Clinic. Although it is can be spread by sexual intercourse, yeast infection is not considered as sexually transmitted infection. Generally, the treatment for yeast infections is simple, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
What Causes Vaginal Yeast Infections
Most of the yeast infections are caused by Candida Albicans- a specific strand of yeast. They are simple to treat and in case of recurring yeast infection or if the conventional treatment doesn`t help, then it may be a different version of Candida that is the culprit. A lab test can help you find out which type of Candida you have.
The imbalance that allows the overgrowth of yeast to happen can be due to:
Antibiotics (they lower the amount of lactobacillus, or good bacteria, in the vagina)
Uncontrolled diabetes
Pregnancy
Stress
Lack of sleep
Unhealthy diet, eating too much sugar
Hormonal imbalance near your menstrual cycle
The Symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection
Burning
Itching
Pain during sex
Soreness
Rash
Large or small amounts of vaginal discharge, often with whitish grey and thick (although sometimes the discharge can be watery)
Getting a Vaginal Yeast Infection Diagnosis
It is easy to diagnose. This will include medical history and whether you had yeast infections before. Also, your doctor will ask you whether you had a sexually transmitted infection.
Next, you will undergo pelvic exam. Your gynecologist will examine your vagina and the surrounding area to check if there are any external signs of infection. Also, he will examine your cervix and vaginal walls. Your doctor will then send a vaginal culture to the lab in order to determine the type of infection.
What is the Best Way to Treat a Vaginal Yeast Infection?
Your doctor will determine the appropriate treatment depending on the severity and complication of the yeast infection.
Simple Infections
A one-to-three day regimen of an antifungal cream, ointment, tablet or suppository. The most commonly prescribed medications are Gynzle, Lotrimin, Monistat, and Terazol. They can be in prescription or over-the-counter.
A single dose of oral medication such as Diflucan
Women who are diagnosed with simple yeast infection should consult their doctor to make sure the medicine worked. Also, follow-up will be necessary if the symptoms return within two months.
Complicated Infections
There are types of Candida that do not respond to the conventional treatments. Here are the symptoms of severe or complicated case:
Severe redness, swelling, and itching that causes sores or tears in the vaginal tissue.
You had more than four yeast infection in a year.
Candida other than albicans is the cause of the infection.
Uncontrolled diabetes or weak immune system from medication or from being HIV positive.
Treatments for complicated yeast infections include:
14-day cream, ointment, tablet, or suppository vaginal treatment
Two or three doses of Diffucan (not for pregnant women)
Long-term prescription of Difucan that is taken once a week for six weeks, or long-term use of topical antifungal medications
Treatment of your sexual partner as well and use of condoms while having sex
Natural and Alternative Solutions to Vaginal Yeast Infections
Tea tree oil cream
Garlic or boric acid vaginal suppositories
Yogurt taken orally or inserted into the vagina
How to Prevent Vaginal Yeast Infections
Avoid using feminine deodorant or tampons/pads
Do not sit in wet clothing, especially bathing suits
Avoid wearing tight pants, pantyhose, leggings or tights
Eat well-balanced diet
Wear natural fibers such as cotton, silk or linen
Consume yogurt or take supplements that contain lactobacillus
Avoid douching
Change feminine products frequently
Avoid sitting in hot tubs or taking frequent hot tub baths