Yeast Infections: What Women Need to Know

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There are millions of cases of vaginal yeast infection in the U.S. every year. So what is it? A vaginal yeast infection causes itching and irritation of the vagina and vulva (folds of skin outside the vagina). Yeast is a type of fungus that normally live in the vagina, along with bacteria and other organisms. When something causes an imbalance in these organisms, yeast grow and cause irritation. A yeast infection is not an STD and clears up quickly with treatment. 

Vaginal yeast infection symptoms include vaginal itching and irritation; white, clumpy vaginal discharge; swelling of the vulva; and pain with intercourse.

Women who have yeast infections may start with symptoms of mild itching that gets worse with other symptoms in a day or two. These types of infections can go away on its own as well but generally require treatment with creams and tablets specifically created to kill the yeast. 

Treatment

  • Yeast killing medications (creams, suppositories, or tablets) 
  • Bacterial replacements 
  • Boric acid

Women should know they can work to prevent yeast infections. Here are a few tips: 

  • Avoiding douches 
  • Avoiding scented tampons, pads, feminine hygiene sprays, and bubble baths 
  • Avoiding hot tubs 
  • Changing pads and tampons frequently 
  • Wearing cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch 
  • Avoiding tight fitting underwear and clothes made from synthetic material 
  • Changing out of wet exercise clothes or swimsuits as soon as possible 
  • Wiping from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacteria from your rectum from getting near your vagina

These types of infections can become worse through specific antibiotics, cortisone, intercourse, tampons, poor diet and a suppressed immune system. 

Antibiotics, cortisone, intercourse, tampons, poor diet, suppressed immune system. Women who have an odor to their discharge and also have frequent yeast infections should see their doctor. To diagnose a yeast infection, your doctor will take a medical history, perform a pelvic exam, and view a fluid sample from your vagina to determine the cause.