The vagina is a delicate body area that needs to be cared for and looked after. When you neglect it, like by not washing properly or wearing tight clothing, there are many problems that can arise. One of these problems is a vaginal yeast infection, an infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans. This blog will teach you all about what causes yeast infections, how they happen, and how to prevent them.
What is a vaginal yeast infection?
A vaginal yeast infection is a common type of fungal infection that affects the vagina. The fungus Candida albicans causes most cases of vaginal yeast infections. Yeast is a common inhabitant of the vagina, but an overgrowth can cause symptoms.
Many women experience vaginal yeast infections at some point in their lives. Some cases can be more severe than others, but all types of yeast infections can be uncomfortable and irritating. If you have a vagina that is prone to recurrent or chronic yeast infection, it’s important to manage your health conditions properly so the fungal overgrowth doesn’t occur again. Vaginal itching may be accompanied by other symptoms like burning during urination, redness, swelling, and pain while having sex (which could indicate an advanced form of the fungus), unusual discharge with odor (grayish-white for C Albicans), or no discharge at all (for vaginal thrush). You should visit a gynaecologist near you if you notice any changes in color or consistency of your vaginal discharge as vaginal yeast infection medication is needed.
Why is it crucial to maintain vaginal hygiene?
Maintaining vaginal hygiene is important for two reasons. The first reason is that a healthy vagina helps protect against infection. The second reason is that a healthy vagina contributes to overall reproductive health.
A healthy vagina is one having a balance of bacteria and yeast. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to an overgrowth of yeast, which causes a vaginal yeast infection.
Common causes of vaginal yeast infection
There are many different causes of vaginal yeast infection. Some of the most common include:
Antibiotics: Taking antibiotics can kill off the good bacteria that naturally live in your vagina, which can lead to an overgrowth of yeast.
Hormonal changes: Changes in your hormone levels can create an environment that allows yeast to thrive. This is especially common during pregnancy when a woman’s body produces more estrogen or during menopause when hormone levels decrease.
Diabetes: Women with diabetes are usually at a higher risk for developing vaginal yeast infections because high blood sugar tends to create an ideal environment for yeast to grow.
Weak immune system: You may be more likely to get a yeast infection if you have a weak immune system due to illness or medication.
Tight clothing: Wearing tight clothing (especially underwear) can create a warm and moist environment that promotes the growth of yeast.
Poor hygiene: Not washing your genitals regularly can also contribute to the development of a vaginal yeast infection.
Risks of having a vaginal yeast infection
Vaginal yeast infections have been known to cause various health problems in women. Following are the risks of having vaginal yeast infections:
- It can affect fertility
- Worsens premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms in women
- The infection may spread to other body parts, which could lead to a systemic fungal disease
- It can also increase the risk of contracting HIV
- In pregnant women, vaginal yeast infections may cause a miscarriage or premature birth
- It can exacerbate the symptoms of those who have a compromised immune system
Vaginal yeast infections should not be taken lightly, and these reasons show how important it is to maintain vaginal health.
Tips to prevent vaginal yeast infection
There are a few simple tips that will help you to prevent vaginal yeast infections:
Wear loose-fitting clothes: Tight clothing can trap moisture and sweat, which can create a breeding ground for yeast. It is advised to wear cotton underwear and avoid wearing the same pair of pants two days in a row.
Avoid irritants: Avoid exposing your vaginal area to harsh chemicals, such as vaginal sprays or douches, that can upset the pH balance of your vagina and create an environment that is conducive to yeast growth.
Limit sugars and simple carbohydrates: Foods with a lot of sugar may cause chronic yeast infections. Try to avoid sweeteners, carbonated beverages, alcohols, fruits canned in a heavy syrup, or fruit juice concentrate. Instead, opt for fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats whenever possible.
Practice barrier method: When engaging in sexual activity, use a barrier method, such as latex condoms, to prevent yeast infections.
Eat yogurt: Yogurt with live cultures can help protect the vaginal area and maintain pH balance. Make sure that your yogurt contains probiotics, which are “good” bacteria that help fight off bad bacteria.
Maintain good hygiene: Make sure to clean your genital area regularly, especially after sex. Wiping from front to back can help reduce the risk of spreading bacteria and yeast around your vagina.
Ending note
The goal is to maintain a healthy vaginal environment. Still, if you ever experience any discomfort or notice an unusual discharge, it’s important that you see the best gynaecologist in Noida as vaginal infection treatment is crucial and can be treated quickly with prescription medications and over-the-counter treatments from the pharmacy. However, they are very common among women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, sexually active, taking antibiotics, etc. If you’re having vaginal yeast infection symptoms, make an appointment with the best gynaecologist at Motherland Hospital soon as possible to determine the cause and correct treatment.
