Yeast Infections—What Causes Them, and How to Get Rid of Them for Good 

By Mishaun Taylor 

Did you know that 75% of women will get a yeast infection at some point in their lives? This type of vaginal infection is so common that over-the-counter treatments are advertised on television. The yeast that triggers such uncomfortable and embarrassing symptoms as itching and burning, swelling, “cottage cheese” discharge and pain during sex can be very frustrating to control. In fact, over half the female population will end up suffering from more than one occurrence of the infection.

Unlike Bacterial Vaginosis, which is caused by bacteria, vaginal yeast infections are the result of a fungus known as candida albicans. This yeast normally lives in the vagina, but it’s usually kept in balance by the acidity of the environment. If, for some reason, the vagina becomes less acidic that normal, yeast can have a field day, multiplying and causing an infection. 

Why might yeast be likely to grow too quickly? There are several reasons, some easier to deal with than others. Certain causes are natural events you have no control over. For example, menstruation, pregnancy, and diabetes can all lead to yeast infections. Steroids and birth control pills can also be a trigger; so can antibiotics, which disrupt the natural environment of the vagina by killing off good and bad bacteria. Wetness or irritation around the genitals is also a major factor, so avoid wearing too-tight underwear and wet bathing suits, or using vaginal products (douches, sprays, etc.) that irritate the delicate vaginal area.

Although yeast infections can be uncomfortable and very irritating, they are generally not serious. Still, if you have one, you probably want to get rid of it as soon as possible! Yeast infections are frequently treated with medicine that goes into your vagina to get the yeast overgrowth under control. This medicine may come in the form of cream inserted with an applicator or a suppository that dissolves inside your body. In certain cases, doctors may prescribe an oral treatment in the form of a pill that you take by mouth. And if your symptoms are driving you nuts while you’re waiting for the medicine to kick in, you can buy special creams to help relieve the burning and itching feeling on your vulva.

Many women try to self-diagnose, but remember that it’s always best to seek a physician’s opinion if you suspect a yeast infection. The reason for this is that some symptoms of yeast infections are similar to those of certain STDs. It’s important to make sure that what you have is really an infection and not a sexually transmitted disease. Also, your doctor can help you decide what course of treatment is best in your particular case.

Consider these tips to avoid contracting another nasty infection in the future:

—Always thoroughly dry your genital area after bathing or showering.

—Don’t wear clothing that is too tight, particular around the crotch.

—Try to wear cotton underwear, which allows you to “breathe”.

—Wipe from front to back after using the toilet, as the germs from your rectum can easily spread to the vagina if you use the opposite motion.

—Don’t sit around in a wet bathing suit for any longer than you have to.

—Observe the instructions on tampon packages and make sure you never leave a tampon in for too long.

—Avoid perfumed sanitary pads, tampons, and toilet paper, and stay away from douches. and vaginal sprays