Vaginal yeast infection: How to treat and prevent it

The human body has a plethora of microorganisms that are beneficial in many ways. The vaginal microflora plays an important role in maintaining the right pH and a healthy vagina. Any disturbance in the vaginal microflora indicates an infection. If this is left untreated it can lead to serious problems.

The vaginal environment has a mixture of bacterial and yeast cells, each of which contributes to maintaining a balance for smooth functioning. But during a yeast infection, there is an abundant growth of yeast cells. Yeast infection is also called candidiasis and is a common condition seen among women but is very rarely seen in men. Yeast infections seen in men appear on their penis and are termed penile yeast infections. Sexual contact with unprotected sex can spread the infection to your partner. Women who aren’t sexually active can also get infected. Here are the cause, symptoms and treatment for vaginal yeast infection.

Causes of vaginal yeast infection

Candida yeast is a natural microorganism present in the vaginal environment. An imbalance in your system can affect the functioning of the bacteria and this will facilitate the growth of the yeast by multiplying them and subsiding the bacterial growth. It is the bacteria Lactobacillus that keeps a check on the growth of yeast and is advantageous in the prevention of yeast infections. So, an imbalance can lower bacterial growth and surge the growth of the yeast cells.

Here are a few causes of yeast infections

• Candida albicans – the yeast that mainly causes most yeast infections.

• Weak immune system

• Taking antibiotics that can reduce the amount of lactobacillus in the vagina.

• Taking birth control pills or specific steroids.

• Pregnancy

• Diabetes that is not under control.

• Hormonal imbalance when you are close to your menstrual cycle.

• Stress

Symptoms of yeast infection

Here are a few symptoms of yeast infections:

• Vaginal discharge – whitish yellow and clumpy.

• You feel itchy or scratchy.

• Swelling around the vagina.

• Burning feeling during sex or while urinating.

• Pain during sex.

• Sore, rashes, or redness.

Diagnosis for yeast infection

First, the patient's history is noted. To verify if you have had yeast infections before or any other vaginal infections. Then a pelvic examination is done. Based on what your doctor observes in your vagina, they will treat you with medications or lab tests.

Treatment

The severity of the infection will differ from person to person. So, your doctor will medicate you based on the severity of the infection you have developed.

Simple infections

For this type of simple yeast infection, doctors will prescribe antifungal topicals or tablets. Make sure they are prescribed and are available over the counter. Keep track of the dosage and time period for the medications and have follow-up visits with your doctor. Here are medicines for simple yeast infections.

• Butoconazole

• Terconazole

• Clotrimazole

• Miconazole

• Fluconazole

Complicated infections

When the severity of the infection is high, your doctor will treat you based on it. If you have recurring yeast infections, check on your partner and use condoms while having sex. Make sure you know the symptoms and consult your doctor for further treatment.

Did you know even babies can have yeast infections? A yeast infection seen in babies is a diaper rash. The use of diapers for a long time and not changing them frequently can make babies to get infections. Note, that not all diaper rashes are a result of an overgrowth of yeast. Consult your pediatrician if you find rashes or red spots in the groin area of your baby and get them treated.

How to prevent vaginal yeast infection

Here are some ways you can prevent yeast infections

• Maintain a good balance diet.

• Take more probiotics.

• Wash your undergarments in hot water.

• Make yourself comfortable. Use natural fibers, cotton or fabrics.

• Make sure you change your feminine products like pads, tampons or menstrual cups frequently.

• Avoid douching.

• Maintain your blood sugar levels.

• Have protected sex.

Remember yeast infections do not go away on their own. Do not neglect the symptoms you see and consult your doctor at the earliest.