Nowadays, we feel comfortable talking in public about everything
from HIV and AIDS to war and political scandals. But when was the last time
you heard someone talking about yeast infections?! Vaginal yeast infections
may be infrequently discussed, but they are very common-they will affect 3 out
of 4 women in their lifetimes, and many more than once.
A yeast infection is otherwise known as candida or vulvovaginal candidiasis.
It is not a sexually transmitted infection, although it may be passed from partner
to partner. Most often, yeast infections are simply caused by an overgrowth
of the normal yeast candida albicans that lives in the healthy vagina.
Factors that can cause yeast infections include hormonal changes (including
pregnancy), certain medications (especially antibiotics), other illnesses (such
as diabetes), or certain hygiene habits. The symptoms are classic: they include
vaginal itching, soreness, burning or irritation along with a thick, lumpy white
discharge often described as "cottage cheesy".
Many women are nervous as well as uncomfortable the first time they have a
yeast infection; if so, you should consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
If you have had the symptoms once before and have them again, you are probably
pretty confident with the diagnosis and can safely treat yourself with one of
the many over-the-counter medications available. If the symptoms are different,
if the discharge is discolored or smells foul, or if the over-the-counter treatment
does not work as directed, consult your physician to confirm that this is a
yeast infection and not another problem.
Created: 3/30/2004  - Donnica Moore, M.D.