Approximately three out of four women will experience a vaginal yeast infection at some point in their lives, according to MayoClinic.com. A vaginal yeast infection is a form of vaginitis or inflammation of the vagina and can cause many women extreme discomfort. Most yeast infections occur due to presence of the fungus candida albicans.
Causes
Small amounts of the fungus candida albicans live in the vagina along with many other microorganisms that help keep a balance in the vagina's natural ecosystem. Lactobacillus bacteria produce acids that discourage the overgrowth of yeast bacteria in the vagina. Vaginal yeast infections occur when conditions for the fungi to multiply are favorable.
Risk Factors
When antibiotics destroy the healthy bacteria that controls yeast growth, yeast fungus can proliferate and cause vaginal yeast infections, according to the National Institutes of Health. Yeast feeds on sugar, so people who suffer from uncontrolled diabetes may also develop frequent yeast infections. MayoClinic.com explains that women who are pregnant or have an impaired immune system also have an increased risk of developing vaginal yeast infections.
Symptoms
Yeast infections are often very uncomfortable and can cause burning and itching in the vagina and around the surrounding tissues. A common characteristic of a vaginal yeast infection is a white cottage cheese like discharge. Women may also notice pain during sex as well as swelling of the vulva, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
Diagnosis
Physicians often diagnose a vaginal yeast infection by performing a pelvic examination to collect a sample of the vaginal discharge as well as to check the vagina and cervix. For most yeast infections physicians will not need to send a sample to the lab.
MayoClinic.com explains that when a patient suffers from recurrent infections, the doctor may send a sample to the lab to find the specific cause of the yeast infection for a more effective treatment.
Treatment
Women can often treat uncomplicated yeast infections with over-the-counter medications such as clotrimazole or miconazole. These medications range from a one-time treatment to a three-day regimen. These medications are offered as a cream, ointment or suppository. In some cases, a physician may prescribe a single one-time dosage of antifungal medication taken orally.
