Vaginal Yeast Infection
and Candida Thrush
A vaginal yeast infection can be diagnosed by a pelvic exam.
Vaginal Candida can often be confused with bacterial vaginitis. The
vagina naturally harbors yeast but at times it can grow to numbers that
over power the "good" bacteria in the body. If you have swelling in the vagina or vulva, a gynecologist or doctor can perform exams to help you reach a decision about what treatment is best for you. See the Candida facts and questions below.
An infected female will have symptoms including intense
vaginal itching
or itchy vulva, burning, discharge, and vaginal irritation. They are
also very common. A doctor can give a test to find out
if the vaginal irritation is in fact a vaginal yeast infection or some
other infection such a bacterial vaginitis or a STD (sexually
transmitted disease).
It's widely recommended to see a doctor first if you have any
ongoing vaginal issues before treating yourself for an itch all though
there are certain
home remedies for yeast infections
that can affectively be used. The reason being you can make problems
worse by using over-the-counter creams if the infection is not due to
yeast.
Some vaginal infections (bacterial vaginitis,
trichomoniasis, and STD's) emit the same symptoms of vaginal yeast
infections and it can be difficult to tell them apart. And, in each
case, there will be a different solution for the condition. A fix to the
problem could be as simple as an anti candida diet or removing
irritating soaps or detergents that cause a reaction when in contact of
skin.
For women who are prone to recurring, systemic, or
chronic yeast infection,
your body is definitely trying to tell you something. In some cases,
the immune system is weak or what's called immunocompromised. It's
important to note that chronic infections are harder to cure. Also
people with weakened immune systems often need much more care to find
the best treatment.
You may have seen or heard the words yeast infection called by
any of the below names but they all mean the same thing, which is an
overgrowth of yeast.
Vaginal thrush
Pregnancy yeast infection
Vaginal candidiasis
Vulvovaginal candidiasis
Yeast Candida
Thrush infection
Candida albicans
Candida
Candida FAQ
Some of the most common topics are listed here along with answers.
What is Candida? Candida is a fungi and family of yeast that naturally lives inside all our bodies.
What is a vaginal yeast infection?
A yeast infection is a condition where yeast has overgrown due to missing “good bacteria” to take up the space in your body.
What are yeast infection causes?
Causes include antibiotics, poor diet, allergic reactions to soap, etc.
Is there a vaginal yeast infection test?
A doctor can perform a pap smear or several exams to determine if too much yeast is present.
What are recurring yeast infections?
Recurring yeast infections are not normal. It could be due to a number of things such as eating too many simple sugars, prolonged antibiotic use, or a weakened immune system.
How long do yeast infections last?
A yeast infection can last as long as it's not cured. Typically the first infection lasts a few weeks then goes away followed by another infection a few months later.
How do I stop vaginal itching?
You stop vaginal itching by curing the yeast infection. You do this with antifungals. In the meantime for some relief, some women temporarily apply coconut oil or aloe vera gel.
What is vaginal thrush?
Vaginal thrush is another word for yeast infection.
Should I get a pelvic exam?
If you have vaginal irritation or discomfort, than yes, have a doctor conduct a wet mount to examine vaginal secretions to determine if a yeast infection is present. The doctor will know if yeast has grown outside normal ranges by doing this test.
Are preventing yeast infections easy?
Not always. It is estimated that 70% of women get these infections during their lifetime. So, there are some women who do not get yeast infections. Diet has been reported to be a critical factor in yeast infection prevention.
What are the yeast infection symptoms?
The most common symptoms include intense itching, redness in the vaginal area, burning, cottage cheese looking discharge, vaginal discomfort.
Are there any home remedies for yeast infections? Yes, there are natural cures such as antifungal foods and oils. Strict diet change is another natural remedy for yeast infection.
What yeast infection medicine is there?
The most common medications either over-the-counter or prescribed from a doctor are Monistat, Gyne-Lotrimin, Diflucan and Nystatin.
What yeast infection signs should I look for?
If you have any of the symptoms listed above you may have a yeast infection.
