One of the most annoying conditions that almost every woman has
had at one time or another is a "vaginal yeast infection." A
vaginal yeast infection is also called "Candida." You probably
have had at least one yeast infection in your lifetime.
Sometimes this annoying infection caused by the Candida albicans
fungus, will appear two or more times in a woman's life,
however, this is a small percentage of women. Usually with the
proper medical treatment these will improve with repeated
treatment.
If you are a woman with unexplained, repeat episodes of vaginal
yeast infections and your doctor has not already recommended you
testing for diabetes or HIV, you might ask him for these tests.
Diabetes and HIV are two conditions that suppress the immune
system and increase the risk of repeated infections.
Who is more susceptible to getting a yeast infection?
* Women under stress from poor diet, lack of sleep, illness or
when taking antibiotics. * Women with immune-suppressing
diseases like diabetes and HIV infection.
What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?
* Vaginal itching and/or soreness * Thick, white, cheese-like
discharge * Burning feeling around the vaginal opening,
especially if urine touches the area * Pain and/or discomfort
during sexual intercourse
When should you consult a doctor?
* Whenever you have vaginal discomfort or abnormal vaginal
discharge. This is especially important if you are pregnant.
Most vaginal yeast infections are cured within two weeks or less
with the proper medical treatment, and sometimes even with a few
days.
What happens at your doctor's office when you express vaginal
symptoms?
* He or she will probably do a pelvic exam. This is necessary to
check for inflammation and a white discharge in the vaginal
area, or around the vaginal opening.
* Your doctor may also take a sample of the vaginal discharge
for an examination under a microscope in the office or to send
to the lab. This is a test for yeast organism such as Candida
fungi, which is the cause of a vaginal yeast infection.
What is the treatment for vaginal yeast infections?
* Antifungal Medicines that are inserted directly into the
vagina. These include: Tablets, creams, ointments or
suppositories.
* A single dose of oral fluconazole (Diflucan Oral) may also be
used, but not recommended during pregnancy.
Most vaginal yeast infections are not transmitted sexually,
therefore, male sex partners do not need to be treated. If a
male sex partner shows symptoms of redness, irritation and/or
itching at the tip of the penis, he may need to be treated with
an antifungal cream or ointment.
If this is your first vaginal yeast infection you definitely
need to visit a doctor. The importance of seeing a doctor for
first time symptoms of a vaginal infection is to be certain that
the vaginal discharge and discomfort is caused by yeast and not
a sexually transmitted infection such as gonorrhea, Chlamydia or
trichomoniasis. Over-the-counter treatments for vaginal yeast
infections should only be used for treating repeat infections.
Tips to prevent vaginal yeast infections:
* Keep the external genital area clean and dry.
* Avoid irritating soaps and bubble baths, vaginal sprays and
douches.
* Change tampons and sanitary napkins frequently.
* Wear loose cotton underwear (other types of underwear and
tight underwear may trap moisture).
* Do not sit in a wet bathing suit for prolonged periods. Change
quickly into dry clothing.
* Take antibiotics only when prescribed by your doctor. Never
take antibiotics longer than your doctor recommends.
* If you are diabetic, keep close control over your blood sugar
levels.
About the Author:
Connie Limon, Trilogy Field Representative. Visit NutritionAndHealthHub.com
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