Yeast infections can be quite bothersome for women. Even more, sometimes recurring yeast infection (more than 4 a year)may be the symptom of more serious underlying health condition such as diabetes. That is why treating yeast infections properly and in a time fashion is very important for women.
Yeast infection (also known as yeast vaginitis) is caused by overgrowth of a fungus Candida albicans naturally present in a vagina. Under normal conditions this fungus is controlled by other bacteria (Lactobacilli) present in a vagina of a healthy woman as well but sometimes this balance is compromised. It may happen when you take antibiotics or oral contraceptives, are pregnant, or go through chemotherapy or hormone therapy. In this case yeast grows uncontrollably and yeast infection occurs. Symptoms of yeast infection are itching, burning and redness of a vaginal area, pain during urination and sex, and sometimes white odorless discharge.
Since symptoms of different vaginal infections may be very similar and self diagnosis is often incorrect it is important to see a doctor for evaluation. Treatment can be performed in two ways: orally or vaginally. Oral medication fluconazole (Diflucan) is sold by prescription only and has some side effects. Vaginal medication can be in form of creams, suppositories or tablets, some by prescription and some sold over the counter with no side effects. The length of treatment varies from one day to a week depending on the medication. Keep in mind that vaginal treatment can compromise latex in condoms and diaphragms so you might want to use different birth control means while using those medications.
As it was mentioned earlier, treating yeast infections by a health practitioner is highly advisable. Only by performing necessary lab evaluations your doctor will be able to make a correct diagnosis and prescribe a proper medication.
