The Many Causes of Yeast Infections

The Many Causes of Yeast Infections

The Many Causes of Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are extremely common. It's estimated that over 75% of women will get a yeast infection at some point during their lives, and it's likely that this estimate is actually too low, as many women will never tell their doctor about the symptoms. On top of that, many women will get frequent yeast infections. So why do these infections happen in the first place, and what can you do to get rid of them?

Yeast infections are caused by the yeast Candida albicans. This critter is exists in the bodies of many healthy people who don't have any signs or symptoms (in the same way everyone has healthy bacteria). When the natural balance of microorganisms gets out of whack - which can happen for a variety of reasons - Candida can change form from a passive yeast to an invasive mold, allowing it to overrun and invade healthy tissues of the body.

In women (don't forget- men can get yeast infections too!), one of the main causes of a change in this natural balance is hormonal fluctuations. Changes in hormone levels can alter the balance of acid and sugar in the blood, creating a breeding ground for yeast. These changes can occur with certain medications, such as hormonal birth control (like the oral contraceptive pill) or hormonal therapy in menopausal women. There is also a fluctuation of hormones that occurs right before menstruation which can lead to Candida overgrowth. Unsurprisingly, pregnancy is another risk factor given the hormonal fluctuations that occur.

There are many medications other than hormones which can increase your risk of developing a Candida infection. Antibiotics, while they do a great job of killing bacteria, sometimes do too good of a job and kill off good bacteria along with the bad. This creates a dearth of healthy bacteria so that there is nothing preventing Candida from running amok and taking over. Steroids can also lead to yeast overgrowth by suppressing the immune system so that your body's natural defenses against infection are weakened.

In men there are also certain factors that can lead to a yeast infection. Candida is much less common in men than it is in women, and if it happens in men, it is usually for a reason. The most common culprit is poor hygiene under the foreskin, which can create a warm and moist breeding ground for yeast. For this reason, Candida is much more frequent in men who are uncircumcised. Another common risk factor in men is diabetes, which can lead to an increased level of sugar in the blood and therefore more food for the yeast.

Although yeast infections aren't considered sexually transmitted, it's still advised to abstain from sexual activity while you are waiting for your infection to clear. This is because it IS possible for direct sexual contact to spread the infection from one person to another. If you spread your infection to your parter, even if you complete a treatment course of an antifungal medication, it can come right back to you after you stop taking the medication.

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