What causes a yeast infection?

This malady occurs when too much of the yeast fungus Candida albicans occur in the vagina. Candida fungi are always present in both male and female bodies but they sometimes get a bit overactive and cause a yeast infection. Interestingly enough, Candida are the same fungi that cause diaper rash!

Your body produces bacteria which feed on the Candida fungus which helps to maintain a proper balance. When this balance becomes disturbed, the Candida albicans multiply unchecked and a vaginal yeast infection (also called candidiasis) occurs.

Symptoms may include: Vaginal itching, soreness and swelling; a vaginal discharge that is often thick, white, and lumpy like cottage cheese, but may also be think and light yellow or nearly colorless; a rash or redness on the vulva; an order similar to bread or beer.

A yeast infection will never cause you to miss a period nor will it be accompanied by a foul odor, vomiting, excessive bleeding, fever, chills, etc. These are all signs of other conditions and should be diagnosed by your doctor immediately.

On average 3 out of every 4 women will have at least one in their life. Some women will experience them more frequently. Fortunately they are easy to treat and rarely require a doctor's attention except for the first time that you experience one. Common sense dictates that you visit the doctor for the first yeast infection to verify what it really is and so you can clear how to recognize and treat them in the future. There are a number of over-the-counter medications available and you're doctor should be happy to recommend one or more.

Here are some tips for preventing yeats infections in the first place:

• Thoroughly dry your vaginal area after bathing, showering or swimming.
• Do not subject your vagina to prolonged exposure to dampness such as a wet bathing suit, sweaty gym clothes, or damp underwear.
• Avoid underwear made out of synthetic material that does not have a cotton panel that will wick moisture away from your vagina and does not allow air to circulate. Also avoid tight-fitting clothes that restricts air flow around your vagina.
• When urinating, wipe your vagina from the front to the rear so you do not transfer bacteria from your anal area to your vagina. These bacteria can destroy the beneficial bacteria that keep the yeast infection fungi in check.
• Try not to use a douche unless you are directed to do so by your doctor. Douching can also destroy the helpful bacteria in your vagina. Douching is not needed if you wash yourself regularly.