What is a Yeast Infection?

A vaginal yeast infection (also called vaginal candidiasis) is caused by a fungus known as Candida albicans. This fungus is found throughout our environment, as well as inside the body in places like the mouth, throat, gut and vagina. It is normally kept in check by our native good bacteria and a healthy immune system.

What Causes a Yeast Infection?

Normally, the body’s good bacteria, Lactobacillus, keep yeast from proliferating. However, there are many conditions that can change the pH balance of the vagina and lower the body’s ability to keep the yeast in check:

Hormonal changes, such as before and during menstruation each month, as well as pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopaus and even birth control pills can upset the pH balance of the vagina leading to a yeast infection.
Taking antibiotics or immunosuppressant drugs. These drugs kill off the body’s good bacteria.
Disorders of the immune system, such as uncontrolled diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and HIV, lower the body’s ability to fight Candida overgrowth.
Douches, vaginal sprays and even semen also change the vagina’s pH balance making it more susceptible to yeast.

How Do You Get a Yeast Infection?

Candida albicans usually develops on its own due to the above causes, but it is highly contagious. According to the Mayo Clinic, “There’s some evidence that infections may be linked to mouth to genital contact.”

It is not, however, considered a sexually transmitted disease.

Symptoms of a Yeast Infection

Every woman experiences a yeast infection differently, but the most common symptoms include:

Soreness of the vagina and vulva
Redness and itchiness of the labia (outer part of the female genitalia)
Pain or burning during urination
Painful sexual intercourse
Thick, white discharge similar to that of cottage cheese

How Do I Prevent a Yeast Infection?

Yeast grows in dark, moist environments. As such, here are some things to avoid:

Tight-fitting pantyhose or tights, as well as tight pants/leggings
Hot tubs or frequent hot baths
Staying in your bathing suit or gym clothes that are damp
Scented female hygiene products
Douching

Here are some things you can do to lessen your chance of getting a yeast infection :

Take supplements with Lactobacillus or eat products, such as yogurt, that contains these good bacteria
Wear breathable clothing made from cotton, silk or linen
Wash your underwear in hot water to kill off any Candida bacteria present
Eat a nutritious, balanced diet

How Do You Treat a Yeast Infection?

Treatments for yeast infection include over-the-counter antifungal medication (such as miconazole) in the form of ointments, creams or suppositories or fluconazole (an oral medication). It is important that you tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Fluconazole should NOT be taken during pregnancy. Not only can a yeast infection mimic the more serious bacterial vaginosis, but if left untreated, more severe symptoms may develop.

Online Doctor Visits

If you suspect that you have a yeast infection or have symptoms similar to those of a yeast infection, consult our online doctors right away. At Home Urgent Care provides telehealth services so you can safely and confidently keep your health in check with our primary and urgent care services. Our online consultation services are provided by board certified doctors that can evaluate your symptoms and order the appropriate prescription at your preferred pharmacy. Feel free to book an appointment today with our health care experts available at your convenience 365 days a year.