Vaginal Yeast Infection - An Overview

Hello my fellow hubbers!

I am writing today to share my research and knowledge about Vaginal Yeast Infection. The reason i am doing this is because, just about 2 months ago, a close friend of mine was suffering from this infection. As a result, i spent some time to help her research on this topic so she'll get a better understanding of what it is that she's suffering from. I hope this information will help everyone here as much as it has helped her.

SO, WHAT IS A VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION?

Before, we can get a clear understanding of what vaginal yeast infection is, we must first understand what "yeast" and "vaginitis" is.

A yeast is a fugus. It is commonly found on human skin. It is also common to find yeast in moisture areas such as the mouth and vagina. Vaginitis (also referred to as vulvovaginitis) is the inflammation of the vagina and in this case, vaginal yeast infection is vaginitis that is caused by yeast in the vagina. (Yeast Vaginitis)

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION?

When the number of yeast population exheeds the population of the normal, protective bacteria that is present in the vagina, vaginal yeast infection will occur. There are several reasons why the number of bacteria would decrease. Two of these include:

- Killed by antibiotics

- immunosuppressive drugs

Vaginal yeast infections can also occur as a result of inner vagina injury.(Chemotherapy)

ARE VAGINAL YEAST INFECTIONS CONSIDERED AS A STD (Sexually transmitted Disease)??

Do not WORRY, VAGINAL YEAST INFECTIONS is not a STD! BUT MEN please be aware that you may be at risk of developing symptoms if you have sexual intercourse with an infected partner!

SYMPTOMS OF VAGINAL YEAST INFECTIONS

• burning
• soreness
• itching in the vaginal area
• pain while having sexual intercourse
• pain during urination
• vaginal discharge with whitish, and thick texture.

It is important to take note that ALL women with the above symptoms should be treated.

WHAT IS A RECURRENT YEAST INFECTION?

These conditions occurs when a woman has 4 or more yeast infections within a year. This does not include the use of antibiotics. If you're suffering from a recurrent yeast infection, more aggressive treatment is required.

HOW TO TREAT A VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION

There are 2 types of anifungal medication that is available.

• The first type is taken by mouth
• The Second type is applied inside and around the vagina

Antifungal Creams include Butoconazole, clotrimazole, micronazole and terconazole.

Oral medications include fluconzole.

It is important to take note that the Oral medications may cause headaches, abdominal pain and nausea. They should NOT be used during pregnancy.

RESOURCES

Medicine Net - I used this site to do most of my research! If you want to find out more about Vaginal Yeast Infection. I highly recommand this site

Wikipedia - Candidiasis - A wikipedia article on Candidiasis and yeast infections in general.