 |
 |
A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a normal stomach yeast or fungus. Candida can grow out of control when the acid levels in the stomach or the vagina change. An estimated 70% of all women develop a yeast infection at least once in their lifetime--many have two or more.
|
|
 |
|
 |
 |
The most common symptom of yeast infections is itchiness in and around the vagina. Sometimes a rash or redness appears near the vagina, and it might burn when you pee. During an infection, normal vaginal discharge (the stuff in your underwear) is often thicker or clumpier, and it may be whiter or yellowish or have an odor. Some people say the discharge looks like cottage cheese.
|
|
 |
|
 |
 |
There are many ways to get a yeast infection. For example, you can get a yeast infection if you're taking such antibiotics as penicillin, which kill the good stomach bacteria that keep candida in check. You can also get one if you've been sick or run down, if you're not eating well or if you have hormonal changes (like pregnancy). You do not need to be sexually active to get a yeast infection.
|
|
 |
|
 |
 |
Yeast can pass from vagina to penis, and from penis or vagina to mouth. A yeast infection in the mouth or throat is called "thrush". Condoms help to avoid passing it or getting it, but some women find that sex can irritate or worsen an infection.
|
|
 |
|
|
|
If you think you have a yeast infection, you may want to see a gynecologist. Sometimes there's a connection between yeast production and STDs or other illnesses. Your doctor may prescribe Diflucan (fluconazole), a one-time pill, or recommend you buy Monistat, one of the many brands of yeast infection-fighters sold at drug stores for $12 to $18.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Most non-prescription drug store medicines treat an infection in three or seven days--there are one-day treatments, but they can be less effective. Yeast infection medicines come in two forms--creams that you inject into your vagina, and suppositories, pill-shaped doses of medicine that you insert like a tampon into your vagina before bed. Some women like to wear a maxipad when using this medicine because it tends to seep out.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Natural remedies can also cure an infection. Tea tree oil, which is a natural anti-bacterial, comes in pessaries (suppositories) and is available at health food stores. Like drug store medicine, you insert these into your vagina before bed. They smell a bit like Eucalyptus.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Candida likes to grow in dark and damp places--a wet towel is a virtual petri dish for yeast. Sweaty or wet clothes also create a good environment for yeast to grow.
That said, there are a few things you can do to reduce your changes of getting an infection: dry off quickly and thoroughly with a clean, dry towel after showering or swimming. Try wearing 100% cotton underwear--it lets your body breathe. You can also change your underwear every day and after exercising, and avoid wearing tight underwear, thongs, or pantyhose. It's also a good idea to wear loose-fitting clothes to bed.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Some women get recurring yeast infections when they use fragrant or flowery soaps, shower gels or bubble baths. Deodorant tampons and feminine deodorant sprays or douches can have a similar effect. Switching to a mild soap, ideally one with tea tree oil, all-natural bath products and fragrance-free feminine hygiene products can prevent this from happening.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wheat, yeast and all types of sugar can aggravate or for some women cause an infection. Yogurt with "live cultures" Lactobacillus acidophilus contains good bacteria that can help neutralize the bad, infection-causing bacteria. Acidophilus pills (available at the health food store) do the same thing.
|
|
|
|
