It is estimated that between 25 – 50% of women carry some type yeast in the vaginal area. Not all types of yeast cause vaginitis or the inflammation of the vagina. The specific yeast candida, is usually the culprit in a vaginal yeast infection. Bad new is yeast is present on different areas of our skin, specifically areas that are prone to moisture like our mouth and genitals, and yes gentleman if you are reading this you too can get a yeast infection. That’s right, there is such thing as a male yeast infection, it is just way less common.
Simply put, yeast infections are cause by a change in the levels of yeast in the vagina or the introduction of new yeast to the vaginal area. Now we stated there are levels of yeast to be found in most women, how ever typically we have healthy bacteria that help keep the yeast in check, and that is why we are not all running around with constant yeast infections. This means that certain antibiotics can cause yeast infections by eradicating the bacteria present in the vaginal cavity, causing the yeast to multiply and cause irritation on the vaginal walls.
Other causes of yeast infections include, taking oral contraceptives, the use of douches, chemotherapy and even pregnancy. Contrary to popular belief, a yeast infection is not a sexually transmitted disease (STD), now as we stated earlier the introduction of new yeast can cause a yeast infection, so even protected sex with a new partner can trigger a yeast infection. You should be aware that because men can get a yeast infection, it is actually possible to pass the infection back and forth between you and your partner, so you both should take steps to eradicate the infection should one of you show symptoms.
Oh you will know. The symptoms of a yeast infection include -
While yeast infections are common, if you are getting them more than 4 times a year it could be signs of another underlying problem.
Vaginal yeast infections can usually be treated by over the counter anti fungal creams.
These are applied directly to the vaginal walls. Although there are oral tablets that can be taken in place of topical solutions, most doctors would reccomend against because the side effect can include severe head aches and nausea.
Due to the constantly changing nature of our bodies and environment it is almost impossible to actually completely prevent yeast infections from ever happening. However simple hygiene can drastically reduce the chances of introducing new yeast, and the washing of hands before any sexual activity is highly recommended. Also ensuring the hygiene of any new sexual partners can also reduce the changes of triggering a yeast infection, but infections can still be likely as your body adjusts.
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