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About Yeast infection

A vaginal yeast infection is a very common infection that causes irritation, itchiness, and abnormal vaginal discharge.

The vagina contains a balance of bacteria and Candida, a fungus. When this balance is disrupted, the Candida may grow unchecked, and eventually, infect the area. Common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:

  • Itchiness
  • Irritation
  • Burning pain, especially during intercourse or urination
  • Thick, white vaginal discharge with the consistency of cottage cheese
  • Redness and swelling
  • Rash

The chemical imbalance that causes a yeast infection may be due to several factors. Common causes of yeast infections include:

- Antibiotic medication: Antibiotics can kill healthy bacteria in the vagina that keep Candida in check. This imbalance can lead to an overgrowth of Candida and a yeast infection.

- Birth control: Birth control that increases estrogen levels can cause an overgrowth of Candida. This can lead to a yeast infection.

- Pregnancy: Hormones change a lot during pregnancy. These fluctuations can cause an imbalance of bacteria to Candida flora, leading to an overgrowth of fungus.

- Diabetes: The surplus of sugar in your body as a result of diabetes can stimulate Candida growth. If diabetes is untreated or is not controlled, it can lead to a fungal infection.

- Weakened immune system: An impaired immune system can stifle your body’s ability to keep the Candida fungus in check. An overgrowth of Candida can lead to a vaginal yeast infection.

Yeast infections are very common. Nearly 1 million American women are treated for yeast infections every year, and 3 out of 4 women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their lifetime. A yeast infection sometimes requires medical attention for appropriate treatment. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, talk to your doctor.

The exact treatment for a yeast infection will depend on the severity of the infection, as well as how often you experience them. Below are common treatment options for yeast infections. During your appointment, talk to your provider about the treatment plan that’s best for you.

For most mild to moderate infections, doctors will prescribe a single dose or short term antifungal medication:

- Single-dose: The antifungal drug fluconazole (Diflucan) can be administered as a one-time pill. If the infection is severe, your doctor may prescribe supplemental doses of fluconazole to be taken several days apart.

- Short-term: Antifungal medications such as miconazole (Monistat) may be prescribed for administration over 3-7 days. These drugs can come as a tablet, ointment, cream, or suppository that is inserted into the vagina. Some forms of miconazole are available over-the-counter. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and whether or not OTC medication is right for you.

If the infection is severe, or if you have frequently occurring yeast infections, your doctor may prescribe a longer-term treatment plan. These medications include:

- Long-term antifungal therapy: Your doctor may prescribe a topical antifungal medication, or antifungal oral tablets, to be administered for several weeks. After two weeks, these doses adjust to a once-per-week course meant to be taken over 6 months. Antifungal medication, especially if taken over a long period, isn’t recommended for pregnant women.

- Boric acid suppository: If the infection has been resistant to antifungal medication, your doctor may prescribe a boric acid suppository. These medications are meant to be inserted into the vagina every few days. Boric acid can be fatal if taken orally, so follow your doctor’s orders closely and keep the suppositories in a safe place.

There are several self-care strategies you can use to prevent recurring yeast infections, including:

- Don’t douche. Douching kills healthy bacteria that balance out fungal levels.

- Avoid scented feminine products. Sprays, soaps, tampons, and pads with fragrances added can irritate the vagina.

- Keep the genital area dry. Pat the genital area dry after bathing/ showering and change out of wet swimwear/ underwear to prevent prolonged exposure to moisture. Moisture can accelerate the growth of fungus, so keeping that area dry can help prevent future infections.

- Practice safe sex. Condoms can help prevent the spread of bacteria, viruses, and fungus. Oral contraceptives will protect against pregnancy, but not against germs spread through sexual contact.

- Use water-based lubricants. Certain lubricants and spermicide products can irritate the vagina. This irritation can lead to an overgrowth of the candida fungus.

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