Everything One Needs to Know About Vaginal Yeast Infections
What is a vaginal yeast infection?
A vaginal yeast infection is a serious infection that produces inflammation, discharge, and severe itching in the vagina and vulva — the tissues that line the vaginal entrance. Vaginal candidiasis is another name for it. Up to three out of every four women will have this infection at some point in their lives. At least two episodes are common in many women.
Vaginal yeast infections in the vaginal canal are not deemed as sexually transmitted infections. However, around the very first regular sexual activity, there is a higher chance of yeast infection. Infections may also be associated with mouth-to-genital contact, according to some studies.
What are the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection?
Signs of vaginal yeast infections can range from mild to severe, and include:
- Itching and irritation in the vulva and vaginal region
- A scorching sensation, especially during urination or intercourse
- The vulva is red and swollen
- Soreness and pain in the vaginal area
- A rash on the vaginal area
- Vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese and is thick, white, and odorless
- Watery vaginal discharge
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have complex vaginal yeast infections:
- You experience significant signs and symptoms, such as a lot of redness, swelling, and itching, which can lead to tears, fissures, and sores
- In a year, you experience four or more yeast infections
- Your infection is caused by a fungus that isn't very common
- You're expecting a child
- You have uncontrolled diabetes
- Certain medications or diseases, such as HIV infection, might decrease your immune system
What are the causes?
Candida albicans is the fungus that causes the majority of vaginal yeast infections. A healthy ratio of yeast and bacteria, particularly candida, exists in your vaginal environment. Some microorganisms help to avoid yeast overgrowth. However, this equilibrium can be upset. The signs and symptoms of a yeast infection are caused by candida overgrowth or penetration of the fungus into deeper vaginal cell layers.
Yeast overgrowth can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Antibiotic usage disrupts the normal flora of the vaginal cavity
- Pregnancy
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Immune system dysfunction
- Using estrogen-stimulating oral contraceptives or hormone therapy
What are the risk factors?
The following factors enhance your chances of getting vaginal yeast infections:
- Antibiotic use: Yeast infections are frequent in antibiotic-using women. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, which destroy a wide range of bacteria, also kill good bacteria in the vaginal area, resulting in yeast overgrowth.
- Increased estrogen: Women with greater estrogen production, such as expectant mothers or those who use elevated oestrogen contraceptive pills or hormone therapy, are more likely to get yeast infections.
Vaginal yeast infection treatment
Since every yeast infection is specific, your doctor will recommend the best treatment for you. The severity of your symptoms determines alternative treatments.
Your doctor will normally prescribe an antifungal cream, ointment, pill, or suppository for a 1-6 day treatment for uncomplicated yeast infections. Prescription or over-the-counter drugs are available.
If you have a minor yeast infection, check with your doctor to see if the medication is working. If your symptoms reappear within two months, make an appointment with your doctor. If you suspect you have a yeast infection, you can treat it at home with over-the-counter medications.
If you have significant redness, swelling, and itching in your vaginal tissue, your doctor would most likely cure your yeast infection as if it were a severe or complicated case which may require the following treatments:
- Vaginal lotion, ointment, pill, or suppository therapy for 14 days
- Fluconazole in two or three doses
- Long-term use of a topical antifungal medicine or a long-term prescription of fluconazole
Home remedy for yeast infection
If you want to avoid taking prescription medicine, you might try natural methods like:
- Coconut oil
- Tea tree oil cream
- Garlic
- Boric acid vaginal suppositories
- Plain yoghurt
Before attempting natural therapies, you should consult with a physician. This is vital because your doctor can help diagnose your illness if your symptoms are caused by something other than a simple yeast infection.
Vaginal Yeast infections are common, but quick treatment can help alleviate the unpleasant symptoms in a matter of days. You can prevent future infections by knowing your risk factors.
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