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Yeast Infection FAQ
Yeast infections can affect women as well as young girls. Because of the embarassing symptoms, many women feel uncomfortable asking questions and do not know whether or not they are sufferring from candida. Therefore I have put together a list of the most commonly asked questions about yeast infections to help you understand this infection a bit more. If you do not find the answers you are looking for here, please consult your doctor or gyno for more information.
Q. What is a Yeast Infection?
A.
Believe it or not, there are plenty of women, especially in their teenage years who do not know what a yeast infection is. Basically, a yeast infection is what we commonly call an infection which is caused by the fungus, candida. Since candida is a type of yeast like fungus, the infection it causes inherits the name.
Q. Where do yeast infections occur?
A.
Typically, a yeast infection occurs in the vagina of a female. This type of infection is known as vulvovaginal candidiasis. However, a yeast infection can occur in other areas of the body, especially in warm and moist areas including the mouth.
Q. What are the common causes of a yeast infection?
A.
There are many reasons for candida to cause infection. Some of the most common causes for yeast infections are ofcourse stress and pregnancy but there are other causes such as certain types of medicine that can make candida grow amongst women. Some of these yeast infection causing medicines include steroids and birth control pills. Antibiotics such as those to treat strep throat may also lead to an overgrowth of candida because these antibiotics may also kill the good bacteria living in your body which helps regulate candida. Women with diabetes or high blood sugar levels may also be at a higher risk of developing a yeast infection.
Q. What are some yeast infection symptoms?
A.
Unfortunately, some of the symptoms relating to yeast infections are similar to those of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Therefore it is very important that you consult your physician or personal gynecologist if you have any of the symptoms below:
The most common symptom of a yeast infection is a white, thick discharge from the vagina that resembles cottage cheese. It is usually odorless but may hold a scent of bread.
A burning sensation or pain during urination or sexual intercourse can be caused by a yeast infection.
A swelling, itching or redness of the vulva may be the result of a yeast infection as well as vaginal itching or irritation.
Q. How to prevent yeast infections?
A. There are many precautions that you can take to avoid yeast infections. The first thing you have to remember is that yeast infections grow in moist and warm enviroments. Therefore it is not a good idea to hang around the house with a wet bathing suit after using the pool or coming home from the beach. Instead, make sure you towel dry off well and change into some cotton underwear. Avoid pantyhose and fabrics such as nylon which help trap moisture. Tight jeans are a no no. Make an effort to avoid wearing tight jeans or tight, stretchy exercise clothing. Attempt to use less frangance rich detergents and bathing lotions for they can cause a reaction in women which will in turn lead to a possible yeast infection. At night when going to bed, try to wear lose clothing with cotton underwear or try not wearing any underwear at all if possible. Yeast infections are an inconvenience and a nuisance for women. Although they can happen to anyone, it is best to take precautions and avoid them as best as possible. Talk to your doctor about yeast infections when you can and follow their guidance and advice.