What is vaginal yeast infection?

Yeast Infection is merely the overgrowth of the Candida albicans fungus, which is harmlessly present in different parts of our body. The vagina yeast infection is a common situation faced by women at least twice during a sexually active life.

Causes of the infection: 

• Antibiotics taken for other infections can lead to the imbalance between the protective germs and the candida fungus. 
• Pregnancy 
• Obesity 
• Diabetes 

Manifestation of vaginal yeast infection: 

The common symptoms of a uncomplicated infection are itching, discomfort , pain during urination or sexual intercourse and excessive vaginal discharge. The level of pain may vary from moderate to mild. however in a complicated case the infection repeatedly occurs with symptoms like vulvar redness, swelling, ulceration may occur.  

Possible Complications: 

• Chronic/ Recurrent Infections: 

A recurrent infection may occur because of an incomplete treatment or an underlying dieases such as diabetes. 

• Secondary Infections: 

The rigourous itching may cause the infection.

Diagnosis: 

Diagnosis is made based on a pelvic examination which will show the redness of the skin/vagina/cervix. Following that a microscopic examination is made on the vaginal discharge,called the wet mount and KOH test. 

Treatment: 

To treat an uncomplicated case, the simple application of the antifungal cream or suppository for 3 to 7 days will help reduce the symptoms. In the case of a complicated vaginal candidiasis, a 7-14 days course of a suppository is recommended. In case this also fails then a longer course of 6 months is recommended. The failure of any kind of treatment may indicate a serious complication such as HIV. 

Precautionary Measures: 

The easiest measure is to keep yourself clean by washing and rinsing with warm water. Avoid the use of soaps, perfumes, deodorants, powders and gels due to its sensitivity towards chemicals. Avoid douching. Wear cotton-made garments to allow the ventilation of air and reduce the level of irritation.Avoid wearing wet or sweaty garments for long. Keep your blood sugar level low. 

It should be a relief to learn that vaginal yeast infection is a common infection and an easily eradicable one. However a medical consult should be consulted to take precautionary measures to prevent its progression to a complicate case.