subject: How Are Women Told What Is The Cause Of Vaginal Yeast Infections [print this page] Do you know what is the cause of vaginal yeast infections today? Candida is the fungus that causes yeast infections. In areas where it is moist the skin will carry yeast. The mouth and the vagina being moist areas they carry yeast. A large percentage of women, twenty to fifty, will carry yeast in the mouth and vagina.
The yeast can cause an infection when new yeast is present in the area. It can also happen if the quantity of yeast present increases compared to the amount of normal bacteria. There are times when infection is caused by the lining being injured due to chemotherapy, if the immune system is suppressed by taking cortisone medication, or you are taking immunosuppressive drugs. This will cause an infection called vaginitis, which causes the yeast to multiply and assault the tissue.
Vaginitis may also be caused by pregnancy or being on oral contraceptives. Diabetics may be predisposed to these infections. If one uses douches or sprays, which are used for hygiene purposes, it may cause infection. If for a reason the normal bacteria is no longer present then there is reason for infection. Although this infection is not sexually transmitted there is a possibility that if you are sexually active you may get the infection.
The symptoms of inflammation are itching, irritation, soreness, burning sensation, painful intercourse or urination. There is also a white cheesy discharge that is a symptom. The vulva will be swollen and red.
You should see your doctor if this is the first infection that you have had or you believe it is a yeast infection. Thinking that you have an infection you can try to self-medicate by trying antifungal medication and if the symptoms do not disappear you should make an appointment with your physician if in addition to the regular symptoms other symptoms appear. Most treatment is successful, however if the infection reoccurs more than 3 or 4 times a year a longer course of treatment may be necessary.
When you have seen your doctor and you do have an infection then he will treat you with medication. Some are creams that you apply in the vagina and around it. There may be a course of medication by mouth also. During pregnancy creams will only be prescribed.
It is possible to avoid these infections but precautions must be taken. You are in the habit of wearing clothes that fit tightly, are made of synthetic materials then you may be susceptible to an infection. Wearing panties made of cotton is much better. Wearing pantyhose is not a good idea either. After showering always be sure that your genital area is dry. You may be able to do this by using a hair dryer on the lowest setting.
To help prevent bacteria getting into your vagina always wipe from the front to the back after urination. Never stay in a wet bathing suit or any damp clothes. Change as soon as you can. Stay away from douches, hygiene sprays, sanitary pads or tampons. Colored toilet paper that is perfumed seem to create an imbalance of acidity in your vagina so avoid using them.
