Vaginal yeast infection is a really common condition and is also known as candidiasis. Your vagina contains bacteria and yeast cells and an imbalance of them can cause the yeast cells to multiply which often leads to symptoms like itching, rashes, irritation and swelling. These infections can be spread with sexual contact but women who aren’t sexually active can also get them. Suffering from these symptoms can bring you discomfort and other side effects. Here are some things that you need to know about the condition to relieve the symptoms of it.
The Channel 46 collaborated with Dr Bharathi Ramesh, Senior Consultant – Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, to enlighten us about the causes and symptoms of vaginal yeast infection, and how to treat and prevent it.
Causes & Symptoms Of Vaginal Yeast Infection
Your vaginal area has a yeast called Candida, which is a naturally occurring micro-organism present in it and LactoBacillus bacteria that keeps a check on its growth. An imbalance of this bacteria in your body can lead to the overgrowth of yeast…
Before you go for any treatment, you need to know the causes and symptoms of this condition. It will make it easier for you to keep a check on your vaginal health. Your vaginal area has a yeast called Candida, which is a naturally occurring micro-organism present in it and LactoBacillus bacteria that keeps a check on its growth. An imbalance of this bacteria in your body can lead to the overgrowth of yeast, which causes the symptoms of vaginal yeast infection to appear. Certain factors that affect the risk of it include use of antibiotics (because it reduces the amount of Lactobacillus), pregnancy, weak immune system, imbalance of hormones, uncontrolled diabetes or stress.
8 Possible Symptoms of Vaginal Yeast Infection
- Feeling itchy around the vaginal area
- Swelling around the vagina
- Redness
- Rash
- Soreness
- Burning during urination or sex
- Feeling excessive pain during sex
- Women also experience a white or yellowish clumpy discharge which can feel thick or watery in nature
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Treatment For Vaginal infection
This condition is quite common and often brings no severe health complications. Once you see the symptoms, you should try seeking medical attention to treat it.
If you want to get rid of vaginal yeast infection, you will most likely be recommended to go for over the counter medications by your doctor.
If you want to get rid of vaginal yeast infection, you will most likely be recommended to go for over the counter medications by your doctor. You can go for anti-fungal cream or suppository. Medications for fungal infections usually come as cream or ointment and are easily available at most pharmacies or grocery stores. You should go with the instructions provided with the medication. Sometimes this condition just needs 1 day of such attention but you should not stop with the treatment unless all its symptoms are gone. Such ointments and creams work greatly for people with mild symptoms or who don’t get yeast infections often.
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3 Preventive Tips For Vaginal Infection
1. Wear A Comfortable Underwear
Tight clothing can be uncomfortable for you and if it is made up of materials like nylon and polyester, they can hold in moisture and yeast likes to grow in moist places. Going with fabrics like cotton is more recommended.
2. Use Of Unscented Products
Scented tampons or pads, certain soaps, or vaginal cleaners can irritate your vagina and the natural balance of vaginal bacteria. You should be using unscented products and cleaners.
3. Maintain Intimate Hygiene
Taking care of your intimate hygiene can prevent the risk of vaginal yeast infection. You should regularly clean your vulva and vagina with gentle cleaners.
When To See A Doctor?
Yeast infections are more common than you think, sometimes they vanish on their own if they are with mild symptoms. These treatments can ease the mild symptoms but if your symptoms are harsh and don’t seem to go away, you should consider consulting a specialist. Sometimes other infections are mistaken for yeast infection and can become a problem later if left untreated. If you have already tried everything and still the symptoms are not going away, you may need to go with tests or prescribed medications. Ask your doctor to suggest the best treatment for you.
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