A vaginal yeast infection is also known as vaginal candidiasis, and it refers to a fungal ailment that triggers discomfort, discharge, as well as intense itching in both the vaginal and vulvar regions. Those are the tissues surrounding the vaginal opening.
Referred to as vaginal candidiasis, the condition affects roughly 3 out of 4 women at some juncture in their lives, with many of them having to face recurring episodes. Remarkably, while it isn’t classified as a sexually transmitted infection, the risk of developing a vaginal yeast infection heightens during the first instances of regular sexual activity. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests potential links between these infections and activities such as oral-genital contact, potentially expanding the spectrum of causative factors.
The vaginal and vulvar areas may go through itching and irritation during a yeast infection. This discomfort can be particularly noticeable during sexual intercourse or when the patient urinates. Redness and swelling might affect the vulva, causing soreness and vaginal pain. A rash could develop as well in the vaginal region.
Thick, white, odorless discharge with a texture resembling cottage cheese might be present as well. Additionally, watery vaginal discharge could occur.
In some cases, yeast infections can become more complex. In this case, severe symptoms could arise, such as extensive redness, swelling, and intense itching leading to cracks, tears, or sores in the affected areas. Those who face yeast infections four or more times within a year might be going through a complicated situation. Certain factors, such as infections triggered by less common types of fungus, uncontrolled diabetes, fungus, or a weakened immune system due to medications or conditions like HIV infection, can also contribute to complex yeast infections.
The approach to addressing yeast infections hinges on the seriousness and recurrence of the condition.
For cases of mild to moderate symptoms and sporadic episodes, your healthcare provider could suggest:
Should your symptoms persist despite treatment or resurface within a span of two months, it’s advisable to revisit your doctor for more evaluation.
Should your symptoms manifest with severity or frequent recurrence, your healthcare professional could propose different ways to treat the condition:
It’s always crucial to talk to your doctor when you manifest symptoms related to yeast infections.