subject: Female Yeast Infections- What Are They And What Can You Do About Them? [print this page] Female Yeast Infections- What Are They And What Can You Do About Them?
While most women don't openly talk about yeast infections, it doesn't mean they don't get them. Over 75% of women will get a yeast infection at some point of their lives, and many of those women will have frequent yeast infections.
These infections are also called vaginal candidiasis. The cause, a yeast named Candida albicans, is actually part of the normal flora of the body and has been shown to exist in the bodies of a high percentage of healthy women. When the inner environment of the body becomes unbalanced, however, the yeast can change forms to a mold, which allows it to invade and overgrow.
You might already know what the common symptoms are. The vaginal and vulvar areas can be itchy and swollen, and you may have a thick white discharge that looks like cottage cheese. If the infection is more serious, you can have pain during sex or with urination. If you have pain with urination, though, keep in mind that a more typical cause is a urinary tract infection.
If you have Candida infections frequently, you're probably familiar with these typical symptoms and know when an infection is coming on. But if you're not so sure of what you have, make sure to check in with your physician. Many women who think they have a yeast infection really have something else going on. So make sure to get a proper diagnosis, so you know you're treating the right thing!
Many women worry that yeast infections are sexually transmitted, which is not the case. However, it IS possible to spread a yeast infection back and forth between your partner during sexual intercourse, and so it is best to avoid sexual activity while you are waiting for you infection to clear.
Thankfully, there are various effective treatments available for yeast infections. Many of these options can be bought without a prescription from any drugstore or pharmacy. These medicines, which come as topical creams or vaginal suppositories, are antifungals, and work by targeting yeast directly while leaving healthy tissues untouched. These treatments are usually used for three days in order to get rid of the yeast infection.
If messy creams and suppositories aren't your thing, you can see your physician who can prescribe you an oral antifungal called Diflucan. This wonder pill can do the trick and get rid of your infection with only a single dose.
If you suffer from chronic yeast infections, you've probably found that these treatments aren't enough, and that your infection comes back after you stop using them. In that case, you may need to take a more holistic approach. It's likely that there's a reason why your body is predisposed to Candida overgrowth. One culprit is certain medications, such as birth control pills, steroids and antibiotics, which for various reasons may create an internal environment in the body where Candida can overgrow. Medical problems that cause a weak immune system, or diabetes in particular, can also be a significant risk factor.
And how is your overall health and lifestyle? Do you eat too much sugar or refined carbohydrates? Drink too much alcohol? Not sleep enough? These things can have a big effect. Many people don't realize how crucial diet is, as sugar is the primary food source of yeast. When you eat too much sugar, you are feeding your infection!
If you have frequent yeast infections, see your doctor, who can work with you to minimize your risk factors and help you achieve a lasting cure.
