Vaginal yeast infection

Vaginitis and Vulvitis are two of the most common vaginal infections, caused by yeast. Over 50% of all healthy women normally carry yeast in their vagina without experiencing any discomfort or symptoms whatsoever. 70% of women all over the world experience this uncomfortable condition at some point in their lifetime.

Yeast Infection in the vagina is not considered a sexually transmitted disease because Candida Albicans, a certain type of yeast, is found in the natural flora and fauna of the vagina. It thrives in moist, warm areas like the mouth or in the skin. The balance is maintained by other organisms that co-exist with them to keep a healthy balance.

Vaginitis means inflammation of the vaginal wall. Besides Candida Albicans, a species of yeast, bacteria and protozoans can also cause this condition. Vulvitis on the other hand is the inflammation of the outer genitals or the vulva which includes the labia and the clitoris. Women can experience pain during urination or sexual intercourse. Additionally they may also have a burning sensation, soreness and cottage cheese like discharge. The discharge is often odorless and thick.

These conditions occur when a certain type of yeast is introduced into the vagina or if there is an increase in growth of the existing species, disrupting the normal balance there in. Injury to the vagina can also cause vaginitis. Women who are taking immuno-suppressants, like steroids or are undergoing chemotherapy may experience this condition. Other pre-existing conditions like diabetes may also trigger the infection.

Certain perfumed vaginal washes and douching are also among the main causes of an increase in the growth of these organisms in the vagina. Oral contraceptives can also disrupt the delicate balance of the flora and lead to Vaginitis and Vulvitis. Stress in some cases can be also attributed to the recurrence of this infection.

To confirm the diagnosis of this embarrassing condition, a specimen is obtained by scraping the infected area and analyzing it, identifying the organisms present. This is done to rule out other infections like sexually transmitted diseases.

Oral and topical antibiotic preparations are usually used to treat this infection. Topical gels and creams are applied directly to the infected area. In some cases an antibiotic suppository is used to combat the infection directly. As a rule women who exhibit the classic symptoms should be treated. Those who don't, should be left alone. Yeast is present in women, but in small, controlled amounts, it does not cause any disease.