What Is Yeast Infection?

Yeast, or Candida is part of the normal flora of the body that lives on the skin and the warm moist areas, such as the mouth and vagina. When there is an overgrowth of yeast it results in a yeast infection, or candidiasis. Specifically, when the vagina experiences an overgrowth of thos fungus, the yeast infection is called vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Overgrowth of yeast can be caused by:

• Medications


• Stress


• Pregnancy


• Douching


• Hormonal changes


• HIV


• Sexual contact with an infected partner

Yeast infection is a common occurrence, and is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, or STD. However, it can be spread by having sexual contact with an infected partner. Other causes of yeast infection can be attributed to ill fitting underwear that inhibits the free flow of air.

Of special interest to ALL women - Facts about douching:

It is not necessary for a woman to use douches. Douching destroys the natural protection of the normal flora that is present in the vagina. It is not needed after menstruation, nor after sex. The vagina magically cleans itself automatically every month. Additionally, there is no need for feminine suppositories or deodorant sprays to feel fresh.

If you feel you need to douche, spray, or insert suppositories, then you need to visit your gynecologist instead. To be fresh and clean calls for only a pure soap that does not irritate, hot water, and a soapy wash cloth. Perform a thorough wash, then rinse and repeat as necessary. On a side note, do this after a bowel movement as well, wiping from front to back, then follow up with a thorough wash of the entire vaginal and rectal area.

Symptoms of yeast infection:

• Itching and irritation in the vagina


• Redness, swelling, or itching of the vulva (the folds of skin outside the vagina)


• Odorless thick, white vaginal discharge with cottage cheese appearance


• Pain or burning when urinating or during sex

Risk of yeast infection in males:

Males can have a form of yeast infection called balanitis, which is an infection of the head of the penis. It is also caused by the fungus candida that causes vaginal yeast infection in females. Males may not manifest any symptoms, or they may experience inflammation and discharge from the urethra.

Males who have diabetes or are not circumcised are at increased risk for yeast infection. This is why it is very important for uncircumcised males to be diligent about their personal hygiene. They must make sure to pull back the foreskin and properly clean this area, keeping it clean and dry to avoid the accumulation of bacteria. The folds under the foreskin is the perfect climate for the overgrowth of yeast.

How is yeast infection diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made by a visit to your gynecologist, who will take a specimen from your vagina for evaluation. If it is indeed a yeast infection, your doctor will prescribe medication to alleviate the problem.

Treatment:

Treatment involves anti fungal medication in the form of a topical cream or tablets, as well as tablets taken by mouth. Medications may include:

• Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex)


• Miconazole (Monistat; Micatin)


• Terconazole (Terazol), and


• Nystatin (Mycostatin)

Prevention:

In most cases, yeast infection can be prevented by:

• Changing to all cotton underwear


• Promptly removing wet bathing suits after swimming


• Avoid douching


• Avoid wearing tight clothing, such as jeans and pantyhose


• If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels to keep them within normal values

If you are having symptoms of yeast infection, contact your health care professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Barb Hicks, RN