Yeast infections are unpleasant and uncomfortable, but they're not uncommon. According to the CDC, about 75 percent of adult women have had at least one genital yeast infection during their lifetime. Despite its misnomer, yeast infections aren't related to yeast at all -- they occur when a fungus that occurs naturally in the vagina, Candida, grows out of control. Other infections share the symptoms of a genital yeast infection, so see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Irritation
Multiplication of the Candida fungus causes irritation in the vagina and vulva. Itching and burning are the two most prominent symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, according to the CDC. MayoClinic.com states that symptoms range from mild to severe. Women with a yeast infection may not notice any itching and burning, or may experience itching and burning of a severity they can't ignore.
Pain
A general soreness is sometimes present in the vagina or vulva, according to MayoClinic.com. Activities that irritate already inflamed and sore genitalia can intensify this uncomfortable feeling, and women with fungal yeast infections can experience pain when urinating or having intercourse.
Appearance
The irritation caused by a yeast infection can slightly alter the appearance of a woman's genitalia. The most common changes in appearance are a swelling or puffiness coupled with an abnormally red color. These symptoms typically occur in the presence of other signs of a vaginal yeast infection. In addition to these general appearances, the US Department of Health and Human Services Womens' Health website notes that a rash is also possible.
Discharge
Some women with a yeast infection experience a change in vaginal discharge. According to the McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the discharge of a healthy vagina is variable from woman to woman. The color ranges from clear to cloudy white to slightly yellow. The texture may sometimes be thin and mucus-like. When a yeast infection occurs, the discharge becomes thicker and white, and is frequently referred to as "cottage cheese-like." There may also be an increase in the amount of discharge present. No unpleasant odor is associated with the discharge. Speak to your doctor if you experience an abnormal, foul or fish-like odor coupled with discharge. A change in odor may be indicative of a different kind of infection.
References
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Womenshealth.gov: Vaginal Yeast Infections: Frequently Asked Questions
- Mayo Clinic: Yeast Infection (Vaginal): Symptoms
- CDC: Candidiasis, General Information: Genital/Volvovaginal Candidasis Symptoms
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign: McKinley Health Center: Vaginal Discharge
