Is It a Yeast Infection or Something More Serious?

 

A vaginal yeast infection is an infection of the vagina that is caused by the overgrowth of a certain type of fungus, Candida albicans. The symptoms include extreme itchiness around and in the vagina, pain during urination, pain during sex and more. This condition is very common and 75% of women will experience a vaginal yeast infection at least one time during her life. Almost half of all women experience two more yeast infections in their lifetimes.

Since vaginal yeast infections are very common and can be treated with over-the-counter medications, many women fail to call their doctors when the symptoms of a yeast infection occur. This is not good because the signs of a yeast infection are very similar to other, more serious conditions including Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. It is important that you visit your physician so he or she can properly diagnose the problem and prescribe the most appropriate treatment.

A vaginal yeast infection can be easily diagnosed by your doctor by performing a physical exam and possibly taking a swab from your vagina and viewing the fluid sample under a microscope. If the condition is confirmed to be caused by a vaginal yeast infection, your doctor may prescribe an anti-fungal cream, tablet or ointment.

Despite what most women believe, most yeast infections are not caused by having sex.  Instead, they are caused by a weakened immune system. Eating right and getting plenty of rest can go along way in preventing this type of infection. For more ways to prevent a vaginal yeast infection, talk to your OBGYN today.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Carlos Alarcon, Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A.