Exploring Vaginal Yeast Infection: Symptoms, Treatment, Types & Causes

What is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis or vulvovaginal candidiasis, is a common fungal ailment caused by Candida albicans, leading to irritation, discharge, and severe itching of the vagina and vulva.

Candida and vaginal yeast infections

Candida is a type of yeast that naturally exists in small amounts in the human body, particularly in the digestive system and genital area. However, when there is an overgrowth of Candida, it can lead to a vaginal yeast infection or candidiasis.

Some types of vaginal yeast infections are fairly uncomplicated, and the most common have mild to moderate symptoms. Non-albicans Candida species can also cause infections, potentially complicating treatment. Chronic vaginal yeast infections, persisting over time, pose challenges in management.

What Does a Vaginal Yeast Infection Look Like?

A vaginal yeast infection usually appears as redness, swelling, and irritation around the vaginal area. Sometimes, it is accompanied by a thick, white discharge. Also, vaginal yeast infection causes a burning sensation, especially during urination.

Who Gets Vaginal Yeast Infections?

Vagina yeast infections are often seen in women with elevated estrogen levels, including pregnant women, those on high-dose estrogen birth control pills or estrogen hormone therapy, and individuals with uncontrolled diabetes.

How Common are Vaginal Yeast Infections?

Vaginal yeast infections are quite common, with up to 75% of women experiencing them at least once in their lifetime and more than half having two or more occurrences.

What Increases My Risk of Getting a Yeast Infection?

Some common causes of the vaginal yeast infection include:

• High levels of estrogen, such as during pregnancy or while taking estrogen-containing birth control pills or hormone therapy
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Use of antibiotics, which can disrupt the balance of vaginal flora
• Weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS or certain medications
• Poor personal hygiene practices, including wearing tight or damp clothing for extended periods
• Sexual activity, particularly if it involves frequent changes in partners
• Use of douches or vaginal sprays, which can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina

What are the Symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Vaginal yeast infection symptoms vary in severity and may include:

• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
• Burning sensation, particularly during intercourse or urination
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Vaginal pain and soreness
• Vaginal rash
• Thick, white, odourless vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese
• Watery vaginal discharge

Why Do Vaginal Yeast Infections Happen?

When the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina is disturbed, it can cause an overgrowth of Candida. This imbalance can occur due to various reasons, such as:

• Taking antibiotics: Antibiotics may eliminate the beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria in your vagina, allowing yeast to proliferate.
• Pregnancy and hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones during pregnancy, menstrual cycles, or while using birth control pills can disrupt the sugar balance in the vagina, providing favourable conditions for yeast to grow.
• Uncontrolled diabetes: High blood sugar levels can affect the bacteria in the urine, contributing to yeast overgrowth.
• Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or treatments like chemotherapy can suppress your immune system, making you more susceptible to candida overgrowth.

How is a Yeast Infection Diagnosed?

To diagnose a vaginal yeast infection, your doctor may:

• Inquire about your vaginal yeast infection symptoms and medical history, including past vaginal infections or sexually transmitted infections.
• Conduct a pelvic exam, inspecting your external genitals for signs of infection. They may also use a speculum to examine the vagina and cervix.
• Test vaginal secretions by collecting a sample for vaginal swab culture. This helps identify the type of fungus causing the infection, aiding in the prescription of appropriate vaginal yeast infection treatment for recurrent cases.

How are Vaginal Yeast Infections Treated?

Vaginal yeast infection treatment recommendations vary depending on the severity of symptoms.

• For simple infections, clinicians may prescribe antifungal creams, ointments, tablets, or suppositories for 1-6 days. Common vaginal yeast infection medicines include butoconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole, terconazole, and fluconazole.
• Follow-up with a clinician may be necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Complicated vaginal yeast infection causes severe symptoms or underlying conditions, like persistent itching, pain, swelling, redness, and abnormal discharge that may require more intensive treatment.
• Options include a 14-day course of vaginal treatment, multiple doses or long-term prescription of fluconazole or topical antifungal medication.
• If infections recur, both partners should be evaluated, and barrier methods, like condoms, should be used during sexual activity.
• Natural remedies such as coconut oil, tea tree oil, garlic, boric acid, and plain yoghurt may offer relief but are not as effective as prescription medications.

How Long Do Yeast Infections Last?

The duration of vaginal yeast infections varies depending on factors such as infection severity, overall health, and promptness of treatment. Mild cases may resolve within 2-3 days, whereas moderate to severe infections might persist for up to two weeks.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of a Yeast Infection?

To reduce the risk of vaginal yeast infections, consider the following:

• Practice good hygiene, including keeping the vaginal area clean and dry
• Avoid using scented products or douches in the vaginal area
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear
• Change out of wet clothing, such as swimsuits or workout gear, promptly
• Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, including managing diabetes, if applicable
• Limit the use of antibiotics whenever possible and take them as prescribed
• Avoid unnecessary or excessive use of feminine hygiene products
• Practice safe sex by using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners
• Talk to a healthcare professional about ways to manage hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or while on hormone therapy.

What Should I Do If I Have Frequent Yeast Infections?

If experiencing frequent vaginal yeast infections, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. Recommended cure for vaginal yeast infection may include:

• Extended vaginal therapy: Consists of daily intake of antifungal medication for up to two weeks, followed by weekly doses for six months.
• Oral medication in multiple doses: Involves taking two or three doses of antifungal medication orally.
• Azole-resistant therapy: This entails inserting a boric acid capsule into the vagina.

Conclusion

In conclusion, vaginal yeast infections are a prevalent condition influenced by factors like hormonal fluctuations, antibiotic use, and immune system vulnerabilities. Typically, vaginal yeast infection causes itching, burning, and abnormal discharge and recognizing these symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis. A medical history review, pelvic exam, and vaginal secretion testing help decide vaginal yeast infection treatment options. The choice of conventional antifungal medications or natural remedies is based on vaginal yeast infection symptom severity and individual preferences.

With the convenience of at-home testing and check-ups offered by Metropolis Labs, managing your health has never been easier. Whether you're experiencing symptoms or seeking preventive care, schedule your blood work and pelvic exams at Metropolis Healthcare/Labs to get better results on time.