Causes of Yeast Infections

A yeast infection in your vaginal canal is a fungal infection that leads to extreme itchiness, discharge, and irritation. It is a widespread condition that affects up to 75% of women during their lifespan. In fact, most women struggle with a yeast infection at least twice in their lives.

The Symptoms of Yeast Infections

Yeast infections typically come with the following symptoms:

• intense itching and irritation in the vagina
• discomfort while having sexual intercourse or urinating
• swelling and redness in the vagina
• pain and discomfort in the vagina
• a vaginal rash
• a vaginal discharge that is white, odor-less, and thick

Can yeast infections be complicated?

Yes, yeast infections are primarily moderate or mild. However, it is possible to have a complicated yeast infection. We have listed some symptoms of complications along with medical conditions that can aid in worsening infections :

• Severe vaginal sores and tears in the vaginal canal accompanied by immense swelling and redness.
• You suffer from yeast infections more than four times a year
• A less typical kind of fungus causes your yeast infection
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Weakened immune system due to medication intake

If you have complicated yeast infections, you must see your gynecologist to discuss a management plan.

What are the causes of yeast infections?

Most vaginal yeast infections are caused by the fungus Candida Albicans. A balanced mix of yeast, bad, and good bacteria that naturally occur in the vagina, including certain bacteria that prevent an overgrowth of bacteria and yeast. However, the vagina's delicate balance can be disrupted, leading to a yeast or bacterial infection.

These disruptions of vaginal balance can be caused by:

• using antibiotics
• An immune system that has become impaired
• oral contraceptives
• hormone therapy
• Unprotected sex
• Tight clothing (jeans, undergarments)

Are there any risk factors for developing a yeast infection?

Yes, these factors increase your chances of getting a yeast infection:

• Using antibiotics. It isn't uncommon for women who take antibiotics to develop yeast infections.
• Higher estrogen levels. Women with increased estrogen levels are more prone to get yeast infections. Therefore, pregnant women or women who take birth control pills with high-doses of estrogen tend to get yeast infections.
• Women who struggle with unnatural blood sugar levels tend to get yeast infections more frequently than those with normal and controlled blood sugar levels.
• A flawed immune system. Women who suffer from lower immunity are more prone to developing yeast infections.

Here's just a few things to keep in mind to prevent yeast infections : 

1. Stop wearing tight panties, pants, thongs that are to small , non cotton underwear 

2. Take vitamins to help boost your immune system 

3. Stop using scented parfumes and dyes in your vaginal area for cleansing because it can lead to yeast infections (an alternative is the Hydrating Aloe Cleanser)

4. Speak with your obgyn if you use Boric Acid suppositories' and the odor , discharge , or itching and irritation does not relieve itself in 7-10 days. 

5. Be sure to take probiotics for your feminine health