Women's Healths
Yeast
Infections
A vaginal yeast infection (candidiasis)
is caused by an excess growth of yeast organisms in the vagina. Yeast infections
are common in women of childbearing age. They can cause severe discomfort but
rarely cause serious problems.
Common symptoms of yeast infection
include vaginal itching (often severe); white, curdy, usually odourless vaginal
discharge; and pain when urinating and during sexual intercourse. The skin around
the vagina (labia) may be red and irritated. If you have burning and pain when
urinating and feel the need to urinate often, see Urinary Tract Infections on
See Urinary Tract
Infections.
Yeast infections are not spread by
sexual contact. However, some doctors feel that treating your sex partner with
antifungal medications may help prevent recurrent yeast infections.
Yeast infections are commonly associated
with antibiotic or steroid use, pregnancy, diabetes, and illnesses that weaken
the immune system. In addition, douching frequently,
wearing tight clothing, or using
strong soaps or perfumed feminine hygiene products may contribute to vaginal
irritation or infection.
Drink acidophilus milk or eat yogurt that contains live
Lactobacillus organisms. Yogurt has been
shown to prevent vaginal yeast infections.
Wear cotton or cotton-lined underwear. Avoid tight-fitting
pants and undergarments. They increase heat and moisture in the vaginal
area, which may allow yeast to grow more easily in your vagina.
Avoid feminine sprays, talcs, or perfumes in your vaginal
area, because they may affect the balance among the microorganisms in
your vagina. Do not douche unless your health professional instructs you
to do so.
Wipe your vaginal area from front to back after using the
toilet and when bathing.
If you have diabetes, limiting your sugar intake and controlling
your diabetes will help prevent yeast infections.
Left untreated, vaginal yeast infections
often clear up on their own, usually when your period begins. Be sure you
have a yeast infection before you try self-treatment.
Use a nonprescription antifungal medication for yeast infections
(such as Canestin, Monistat 7, or a store brand) as directed.
Drink acidophilus milk or regularly eat yogurt that contains
live Lactobacillus cultures.
Douche with yogurt that contains live
Lactobacillus cultures. Talk with your doctor before using a yogurt
douche.
Avoid excessive cleaning of your vaginal area. Wash once
a day with plain water or a mild, nonperfumed soap.
Don't use tampons while using a topical treatment (cream
or vaginal suppositories) for a vaginal yeast infection. The tampons can
absorb the medication. Use sanitary pads instead.
If sexual intercourse causes discomfort, avoid it until
your symptoms go away.
If you develop lower abdominal pain or a fever greater
than 38.3°C (101°F) along with symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection.
If you think this is the first time you've had a yeast
infection, or if you aren't sure whether your symptoms are being caused
by a yeast infection.
If Home Treatment with a nonprescription antifungal product
fails to clear up a yeast infection within 3 or 4 days, or if you are
using antifungal creams repeatedly.
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If you are or may be pregnant.
If symptoms of a yeast infection return within 2 months
and you have not been taking antibiotics.
If you plan to see a health professional,
do not douche, use vaginal creams, or have sexual intercourse for 48 hours
before your appointment. Doing these things may make your problem more difficult
to diagnose.
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