Q: What is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

A Vaginal Yeast Infection occurs when you develop an irritation of the vagina and any surrounding areas of the vagina.

Q: How do you get a Candida Yeast Infection?

A Vaginal Yeast Infection is caused by an overgrowth of Candida Yeast. You always have a small amount of yeast in your vagina, but when an over growth occurs it can cause an infection.

Q: What are some signs of a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Some Common Symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection are…

• Swelling of the vagina and any surrounding areas.
• Burning and redness of the vagina and any surrounding areas.
• Pain during urination.
• Pain during intercourse.
• Thick, white vaginal discharge that can sometimes look like cottage cheese but generally does not have a smell.

Q: What causes a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Some Common causes of a Vaginal Yeast Infection are…

• Stress (This is a big one)
• Having your monthly period
• Taking a birth control pill or any kind of birth control
• Taking antibiotics
• Taking steroids
• A high intake of sugar and a unhealthy diet
• Being pregnant or giving vaginal birth
• Being sick
• Not getting enough sleep
• Having a weakened immune system from a disease such as Diabetes

Q: Is a Vaginal Yeast Infection a Sexually Transmitted Disease?

A Vaginal Yeast Infection is not a Sexually Transmitted Disease but it can be passed through intercourse. This is rare but it can occur. It is also rare that your partner will develop a yeast infection but they should be treated if they show any signs of one.

Q: How can I avoid a Vaginal Yeast Infections?

You should avoid douching, bubble baths, scented hygiene product, scented sprays, scented pads and tampons and you should change your tampons or pads often when you have your monthly period. Going to the bathroom after you have sexual intercourse is important too. You should never wash your vagina directly with soap bars, use a wash cloth and fragrance free body wash when you bathe.

Q: Is a Candida Yeast Infection Curable and how can I take care of it?

Yes. It is always important to talk to your doctor before treating your vaginal yeast infection. Most people run out and buy the over the counter medications to treat the yeast infection right away. This can have serious consequences. If what you are treating is not a vaginal yeast infection then you are just making the Candida yeast that is normal in your body immune to these medications.

Learn more about Candida Albicans and Yeast Infections here.

Sources:
www.womenshealth.gov