Yeast Infections Explained

What Is A Yeast Infection?

Also referred to as candidiasis, a yeast infection typically occurs in moist, warm body parts including the mouth and other moist parts of the skin.

The infection can occur for numerous reasons which include illnesses that negatively impact the immune system, pregnancy, and heightened stress levels. Some medications such as steroids and birth control pills may also cause these infections.

Girls who have elevated blood sugar have also been prone to yeast infections. Therefore, females who have been diagnosed with diabetes are at higher risk.

Many girls have found that yeast infections tend to arise before the onset of menstruation because of changes in their hormones. Clothing, particularly underwear, which is too tight or comprised of materials such as nylon which are known to trap moisture and heat are also believed to lead to yeast infections. Using sanitary products that are scented or douching can also be detrimental to the balance of bacteria in the vaginal area.

Yeast infections can occur in any girl, whether or not they are having sex. However, the infection has been known to pass from one infected person to another via sexual intercourse although this is rare. When yeast infections are passed through sex, the condition is not considered to be an STD or sexually transmitted disease.

Symptoms of the Infection

Common symptoms of the infection include:
• Irritation and itching within the vagina
• Swelling, itching, and/or redness of the vulva
• Burning or pain during sex or when urinating
• White, thick discharge that is typically odorless or may smell like yeast

How to Prevent Infection

Yeast grows optimally in moist, warm environments such as tight jeans, exercise pants, or wet bathing suits. Other items such as pantyhose or nylon underwear are also able to trap moisture and cause yeast infections.

Some girls may also react negatively to perfumes that are found in soaps, certain dyes, lotions, bath gels, laundry detergents, and sanitary products. When an allergic reaction leads to irritation, a yeast infection may occur.

In order to keep the area of the vagina dry, using underwear made of cotton is best and you should thoroughly dry off after showering. When going to bed, the best choice is to wear cotton underwear or no underwear at all.