Yeast Infection

Learn Yeast Infection in 5 minutes

Overview

A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge, and intense itchiness in the vagina and vulva. It is also called vaginal candidiasis and can affect up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their lifetimes, with some experiencing multiple episodes. Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections, but there is an increased risk during first regular sexual activity and possibly with oral-genital contact. Medications can effectively treat yeast infections. If a person has recurrent infections (four or more within a year), they may require a longer treatment course and a maintenance plan.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

Symptoms of a yeast infection can include:

• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
• A burning sensation, especially during intercourse or while urinating
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Vaginal pain and soreness
• Vaginal rash
• Thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance
• Watery vaginal discharge If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Risk Factors

The risk factors for developing a yeast infection include: antibiotic use, increased estrogen levels, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, an impaired immune system, and taking oral contraceptives or hormone therapy that increase estrogen levels. Other factors that may increase the risk are wearing tight-fitting or non-breathable clothing, douching, using scented feminine products, sitting in hot tubs or using very hot baths, and staying in wet clothes for extended periods. It's important to practice good hygiene and wear breathable undergarments to reduce the risk of yeast infections.

Development

Yeast infections develop when there's an overgrowth of the fungal organism Candida albicans in the vagina. This overgrowth can be caused by several factors, including:

1. Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to an overgrowth of yeast.
2. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to an increased risk of yeast infections.
3. Uncontrolled diabetes: High blood sugar levels can create an ideal environment for the growth of Candida fungus.
4. Impaired immune system: A weakened immune system can make it difficult for the body to fight off an overgrowth of yeast.
5. Oral contraceptives or hormone therapy: Hormonal changes resulting from the use of oral contraceptives or hormone therapy can increase estrogen levels, which may contribute to yeast infections. It's important to note that yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections, but there may be a link between oral-genital contact and the development of infections. Recurrent yeast infections (four or more within a year) may require a longer treatment course and a maintenance plan.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

You should see a doctor if yeast infection is suspected when:

1. This is the first time you've had yeast infection symptoms.
2. You're not sure whether you have a yeast infection.
3. Your symptoms aren't relieved after treating with over-the-counter antifungal vaginal creams or suppositories.
4. You develop other symptoms, such as a fever, chills, or pelvic pain.
5. You have severe signs and symptoms, such as extensive redness, swelling, and itching that leads to tears, cracks, or sores.
6. You have four or more yeast infections in a year.
7. Your infection is caused by a less typical type of fungus.
8. You're pregnant.
9. You have uncontrolled diabetes.
10. Your immune system is weakened because of certain medications or conditions such as HIV infection.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a yeast infection, a doctor may ask questions about your medical history, perform a pelvic exam, and test vaginal secretions. Identifying the fungus can help prescribe more effective treatment for recurrent infections.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Potential complications of a yeast infection can include:

1. Recurrent infections: If you experience four or more yeast infections within a year, it may be considered a chronic or recurrent yeast infection. This may require a longer treatment course and a maintenance plan.
2. Complicated yeast infections: Individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, or those who use certain medications may have complicated yeast infections. These infections can be more difficult to treat and may require prescription medications.
3. Spread of infection: In rare cases, the yeast infection may spread beyond the genital area. This can lead to more severe skin infections or infections in other organs, such as the kidneys, if the yeast enters the bloodstream.
4. Itching and discomfort: Yeast infections can cause severe itching, burning, and discomfort in the affected area, which can significantly impact your quality of life. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the complications mentioned above or if you are unsure whether your symptoms are caused by a yeast infection. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and alleviate discomfort.

Prevention

To prevent yeast infections, you can follow these tips:

1. Wear breathable underwear made of cotton with a cotton crotch. Avoid tight-fitting pantyhose, leggings, or spandex.
2. Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.
3. Refrain from using scented feminine products, such as bubble bath, pads, tampons, and soaps.
4. Don't sit in hot tubs, hot baths, or whirlpool spas for extended periods, as these can encourage yeast growth.
5. Practice safer sex by using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners.
6. Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to avoid spreading bacteria from the anus to the vagina.
7. Avoid staying in wet clothes, such as swimsuits and workout attire, for extended periods.
8. Be cautious with antibiotic use, as they can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body. Use them only when necessary and as prescribed by a doctor. However, it's essential to note that not all yeast infections can be prevented, and some women may be more susceptible due to factors like hormonal changes, pregnancy, or an impaired immune system. If you experience symptoms of a yeast infection, consult your doctor for appropriate treatment.

Home Remedies

Home remedies for yeast infections may include the following:

1. Probiotics: Consuming probiotic-rich foods or taking probiotic supplements can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your body and reduce the risk of yeast overgrowth.
2. Yogurt: Eating plain, unsweetened yogurt with live active cultures can help reintroduce beneficial bacteria to your body.
3. Boric acid: Boric acid is a natural antifungal agent found in some over-the-counter products. It can help alleviate symptoms of yeast infections when applied topically.
4. Apple cider vinegar: While there's limited scientific evidence, some people suggest applying diluted apple cider vinegar to the affected area may help soothe itching and reduce inflammation.
5. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antifungal properties, but it should be diluted and tested on a small patch of skin before applying it to the affected area.
6. Wear breathable clothing and avoid tight-fitting or synthetic materials, which can trap moisture and create a favorable environment for yeast to grow.
7. Maintain good hygiene: Avoid using scented products, douching, and using harsh soaps in the genital area. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry well after showering.
8. Reduce sugar intake: High sugar intake can promote the growth of yeast. Limiting sugar consumption may help reduce the risk of yeast overgrowth.
9. Manage underlying health conditions: If you have diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider about keeping your blood sugar levels under control to prevent yeast infections. Remember that home remedies may not always effectively treat yeast infections, and it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment

Medications are typically used to treat vaginal yeast infections. Over-the-counter antifungal vaginal creams or suppositories, such as clotrimazole, miconazole, and tioconazole, can be effective in treating yeast infections. These medications usually require applying for 1 to 7 days, depending on the specific product and instructions provided. For recurrent yeast infections (four or more within a year), a longer treatment course and a maintenance plan may be necessary. In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe a higher-strength medication or a different medication to help prevent future infections. It's important to finish the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve before you've completed the medication. This helps to ensure that the infection is fully treated and reduces the risk of recurrence.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for a yeast infection, make a list of your symptoms and their duration, gather information about any medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking, and avoid using tampons or douching before the appointment. Additionally, write down questions to ask your doctor, such as whether medicine is needed, if there are any over-the-counter products that can treat your condition, and how to prevent yeast infections.