Vaginal Yeast Infections

One of the most annoying conditions that almost every woman has had at one time or another is a “vaginal yeast infection.” A vaginal yeast infection is also called “Candida.” You probably have had at least one yeast infection in your lifetime. Sometimes this annoying infection caused by the Candida albicans fungus, will appear two or more times in a woman’s life, however, this is a small percentage of women. Usually with the proper medical treatment these will improve with repeated treatment.

If you are a woman with unexplained, repeat episodes of vaginal yeast infections and your doctor has not already recommended you testing for diabetes or HIV, you might ask him for these tests. Diabetes and HIV are two conditions that suppress the immune system and increase the risk of repeated infections.

Who is more susceptible to getting a yeast infection?

• Women under stress from poor diet, lack of sleep, illness or when taking antibiotics.• Women with immune-suppressing diseases like diabetes and HIV infection.

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

• Vaginal inching and/or soreness
• Thick, white, cheese-like discharge
• Burning feeling around the vaginal opening, especially if urine touches the area
• Pain and/or discomfort during sexual intercourse

When should you consult a doctor?

• Whenever you have vaginal discomfort or abnormal vaginal discharge. This is especially important if you are pregnant.

Most vaginal yeast infections are cured within two weeks or less with the proper medical treatment, and sometimes even with a few days.

What happens at your doctor’s office when you express vaginal symptoms?

• He or she will probably do a pelvic exam. This is necessary to check for inflammation and a white discharge in the vaginal area, or around the vaginal opening.
• Your doctor may also take a sample of the vaginal discharge for an examination under a microscope in the office or to send to the lab. This is a test for yeast organism such as Candida fungi, which is the cause of a vaginal yeast infection.

What is the treatment for vaginal yeast infections?

• Antifungal Medicines that are inserted directly into the vagina. These include: Tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories.
• A single dose of oral fluconazole (Diflucan Oral) may also be used, but not recommended during pregnancy.

Most vaginal yeast infections are not transmitted sexually, therefore, male sex partners do not need to be treated. If a male sex partner shows symptoms of redness, irritation and/or itching at the tip of the penis, he may need to be treated with an antifungal cream or ointment.

If this is your first vaginal yeast infection you definitely need to visit a doctor. The importance of seeing a doctor for first time symptoms of a vaginal infection is to be certain that the vaginal discharge and discomfort is caused by yeast and not a sexually transmitted infection such as gonorrhea, Chlamydia or trichomoniasis. Over-the-counter treatments for vaginal yeast infections should only be used for treating repeat infections.

Tips to prevent vaginal yeast infections:

• Keep the external genital area clean and dry.
• Avoid irritating soaps and bubble baths, vaginal sprays and douches.
• Change tampons and sanitary napkins frequently.
• Wear loose cotton underwear (other types of underwear and tight underwear may trap moisture).
• Do not sit in a wet bathing suit for prolonged periods. Change quickly into dry clothing.
• Take antibiotics only when prescribed by your doctor. Never take antibiotics longer than your doctor recommends.
• If you are diabetic, keep close control over your blood sugar levels.

Author: Connie Limon. Please visit our Nutrition and Health Article Collection for re-print at http://nutritionandhealthhub.com
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com