Yeast Infections in Women
Yeast infections in women usually take the form of vaginal yeast infection, also known as Candida vaginal infections. This is because Yeast infections in women are caused by the fungus Candida albicans which exists naturally in the human body, especially in the vaginal mucous membranes.
Yeast infections in women are very common and statistics say that nearly 75% of all women develop at least one yeast infection in their lifetimes and nearly 45% of women have more than one yeast infection.
Yeast infections in women are caused by many different factors, both internal and external. Generally excessive use of antibiotics leads to Yeast infections in women. This is because the antibiotic action cleanses the body of all the bacteria, both good and bad but not Candida albicans as it is resistant to antibiotics. The absence of all other microorganisms in the body leaves the Candida albicans free to spread and cause various infections including Yeast infections in women.
Yeast infections in women are also caused by the use of antibacterial soaps and washes that are used to wash the genital area. The soaps kill the yeast destroying beneficial bacteria in the genital area leading to an unmitigated growth of the yeast. This eventually leads to Yeast infections in women.
Yeast infections in women are also common if the immune system is compromised like in HIV/AIDS or in case there is a pre-existing case of sexually transmitted disease.
Another common cause of Yeast infections in women is tight and synthetic clothing and underwear. This kind of clothing traps the moisture and heat in the genital areas, making it a conducive environment for the growth of Candida albicans.
Yeast infections in women can be identified through symptoms specific to it. Yeast infections in women cause a severe itching sensation in the vagina. There is also a white, cheesy discharge from the vagina. Yeast infections in women also cause a burning sensation during urination, and burning, pain and irritation during sexual intercourse.
Though Yeast infections in women are quite common, it is quite easy to diagnose and treat. The treatment can work in a few days or within a few weeks. Of course the problem continues with recurrent cases of the infection. The treatment of Yeast infections in women involves keeping the genital area dry and clean. Underclothes should be cotton and clean so that there is no trapping of moisture and heat. In case of going swimming etc, the genital area should be wiped dry immediately and fresh dry clothes should be worn. Yeast infections in women are also controlled by not using feminine deodorants, vaginal antibacterial soaps, perfumed tampons and sanitary pads etc. Yeast infections in women are also treated by reducing or eliminating the use of antibiotics so that good bacteria in the body keep Candida albicans under control. Similarly birth control pills should not be taken so that there is no hormonal imbalance.
Finally, Yeast infections in women can be controlled through taking in a diet that doesn’t feed the fungi and instead starves it.