The Causes of Yeast Infections
The most common causes of yeast infections include the use of antibiotics, uncontrolled diabetes, increased heat/moisture in the vaginal area and, on occasion, douching.
Use of antibiotics: Antibiotics kill the organisms responsible for a disease or infection. In doing so, they also eradicate many of the “good” bacteria that help maintain the balance of micro-organisms in the vagina. When this happens, a yeast infection may result.
Uncontrolled diabetes: When blood sugar levels are high, yeast thrives. Keeping blood sugar under control helps reduce the incidence of yeast infections.
Increased warmth and moisture: Yeast organisms thrive in a warm, humid environment. Sweating, discharge or allowing the area to remain in a moist environment (wearing a damp bathing suit or pantihose without a cotton crotch, for example), increases the chance of getting a yeast infection.
Douching: Excessive douching removes natural secretions and dries the surface of the vagina. Healthy bacteria are also washed away, encouraging overgrowth of yeast. If you feel you have to douche, make sure you do so infrequently, and use a douche product that contains vinegar. This will help maintain vaginal acidity.
What Are the Symptoms? Symptoms of a yeast infection can vary from mild to severe.
They include:
- Itching and/or burning.
- A whitish, thick, clumpy discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
- Vulvar redness and/or swelling.
- A faint, yeast-like odour.
- Discomfort during and/or after intercourse.
- Pain or burning when urinating.
One or more of these symptoms generally appear within three days of being infected.
Should I See the Doctor? If your doctor has previously diagnosed you with a yeast infection, you will likely recognize the symptoms and can use an over-the-counter therapy from your London Drugs pharmacy. On the other hand, if this is your first suspected yeast infection, you should consult your doctor before attempting self-treatment. Many vaginal infections give rise to mild symptoms such as itching and need to be correctly diagnosed.
You should not use any self-treatment for yeast infection if you are pregnant or have an existing health condition such as diabetes or disorder of the immune system.
Preventing Yeast Infections The following steps will help minimize the risk of a yeast infection:
- Dry the outer vaginal area thoroughly after a bath, shower or swim. Change out of a wet bathing suit or damp workout clothes as soon as possible.
- Wear underwear with a cotton crotch.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothes made from synthetic fabrics. Choose loose-fitting, natural fibers instead.
- Wipe “from front to back” after using the toilet.
- Avoid perfumed soaps and bath additives as they may disturb the acidity of the vagina. This increases the risk of developing a yeast infection.
- Reduce carbohydrate consumption, especially desserts and chocolate.
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