Vaginal Yeast Infection

Under normal conditions, Lactobacillus bacteria keep Candida in check, maintaining a healthy balance. However, if this balance is disrupted—due to various factors—the yeast can grow too much causing a vaginal yeast infection.

Here are some risk factors that can disturb this balance and increase your risk of a yeast infection:

• Antibiotics: These can reduce the number of protective Lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina.
• Hormonal Contraceptives: Birth control methods containing estrogen, such as pills, patches, and vaginal rings, may heighten your risk.
• Contraceptive Devices: Vaginal sponges, diaphragms, and intrauterine devices (IUDs) can also increase the risk. Spermicides can cause irritation but do not usually cause yeast infections.
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV or treatments like steroids and chemotherapy can make infections more likely.
• Pregnancy: Increases in vaginal discharge during pregnancy can make yeast infections more common, though they are not always the cause.
• Diabetes: Women with uncontrolled diabetes are at a higher risk due to elevated sugar levels.
• Stress and Hormonal Imbalances: These can affect the body’s natural balance, making infections more likely.

Most yeast infections are caused by a specific type of yeast called Candida albicans and are generally treatable. However, recurrent infections or those that don’t respond to typical treatments might be caused by a different strain of Candida which can be confirmed by a lab test.

It’s normal for you to have some vaginal discharge. It may have a mild odor, but it shouldn’t be unpleasant or worrying. Vaginal discharge plays a key role in keeping your vagina healthy, helping to maintain the right pH balance and natural flora. The characteristics of your discharge can change with your monthly hormone fluctuations. For instance, it might sometimes appear pasty and white, and be minimal at times. Around ovulation, it often becomes wet and slippery, while just after your period, you might notice very little discharge at all. Healthy discharge won’t cause irritation, burning, or itching. 

For most people that have a yeast infection, there is little or no vaginal discharge. However, if you do get some discharge, it is typically white and clumpy (curd-like that may look like cottage cheese) or thin and watery.

Treating a vaginal yeast infection can involve different types of medications. If you recognize that you have a yeast infection, you can treat it at home with OTC products. If you are unsure about what you have or it’s your first time, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment. Here’s an overview of your options:

Vaginal Treatments:

• Creams or Tablets: These are applied inside the vagina using an applicator, usually at bedtime. You can find both prescription and over-the-counter options. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatments can last one, three, or seven days, with all durations being equally effective.
  
  

Oral Treatment:

• Fluconazole (e.g., Diflucan): This is a prescription pill that is often effective with just one dose. However, for more complicated infections—such as those in women with underlying health issues, recurrent infections, or severe symptoms—a second dose may be needed 72 hours after the first.
  Fluconazole interacts with a number of medications; ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have concerns. Fluconazole is not recommended during pregnancy due to the potential risk of harm to the developing baby.
  
  

Watchful Waiting

• If your yeast infection symptoms are mild, you might wait a few days to see if they clear up on their own, especially if your period is due soon, as it can help relieve the symptoms. If the symptoms persist, try an over-the-counter treatment. Should symptoms continue after treatment, it’s best to see your doctor.

• Stick to plain water or a mild, unscented soap for cleansing the vulva and vaginal areas, steering clear of any scented soaps.
• If you experience swelling or pain in your genital area, find relief by sitting in cool water or placing a cool, damp cloth on the affected area.
• Try to avoid scratching if you feel itchy.
• Refrain from using douches, powders, sprays, or perfumes around your vagina or vulva, as these products can disturb the natural balance of organisms in these areas.
• If you’re treating a yeast infection and you’re on your period, it’s best to use pads rather than tampons. Tampons can absorb the medication, making it less effective.
  
  

Also, it’s advisable to avoid sexual intercourse until you’ve completed your treatment. If you do have sex, remember that the oil in some vaginal medicines can weaken latex, so latex condoms or diaphragms may not be reliable for birth control while undergoing treatment.

To help manage and prevent discomfort from yeast infections, follow these clothing tips:

• Choose Natural Fibers: Opt for underwear and pants made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, or silk.
• Loose-Fitting Clothes: Wear loose-fitting clothing to allow your skin to breathe. Avoid tight-fitting clothes such as tights or leggings.
• Cotton Underwear: Always choose cotton underwear, and if you wear pantyhose, make sure they have a cotton crotch.
• Change Quickly: Change out of wet bathing suits or damp clothes as soon as possible to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wash Carefully: Wash your underwear in hot water to help eliminate any fungi or bacteria.

Vaginal yeast infections are very common, but they can have symptoms similar to more serious conditions like sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and other infections. It’s important to get a proper diagnosis from your healthcare provider through an examination and laboratory tests. Here’s when you should see your healthcare provider:

• If it’s your first yeast infection.
• If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
• If you are pregnant.
• If you’re unsure whether you have a yeast infection. Treating yourself for a yeast infection when you have a different type of infection can worsen the problem.
• If you still have symptoms 7 days after starting treatment.
• If symptoms worsen during treatment.
• If you have vaginal discharge with an unusual or foul odor.