Yeast infection is a very common problem among women in all parts of the world. However, it is still difficult to identify the exact percentage of women who are affected by this type of infection because most of them are diagnosed without undergoing proper examination. Moreover, majority of the women are treating themselves with cures without the prescription from a physician.

What yeast is

Yeast, scientifically known as Candida, is a tiny single cell fungus. The specific fungus type that is mostly responsible for vaginitis is called Candida albicans. It is normally present on a human's skin and mostly in moist and dark areas of the human body, such as the vagina and mouth. Almost a total of 20% of the women population are in fact carrying yeast in the vaginal region. The infection usually occurs to women who have their monthly periods but they are less common in women who are in their postmenopausal stage who have not taken estrogen and girls who haven't started their menstruation yet.

What causes yeast infection

There are many causes why a woman develops yeast infection.

1. Yeast infection usually occurs when foreign yeast is brought into a vaginal area or an increase in the amount of yeast relative to the amount of normal bacteria. Such event happens when the protective normal bacteria are destroyed by antibiotics or by drugs which are capable of suppressing the immune system. The yeast then multiplies and attacks vaginal tissues resulting to an irritation on the linings of a vagina.

2. Also occurs as an outcome of damage in a woman's inner vagina, such as for someone who had undergone chemotherapy.

3. The use of vaginal hygiene sprays or douches.

4. Imbalance of the pH levels of the vagina.

5. The use of contraceptive devices such as diaphragms, vaginal sponges, and IUDs or intrauterine devices.

What are symptoms of yeast infection

In women, the most common symptoms they may experience of having vaginal yeast infection are:

- Soreness,

- Burning,

- Pain during urination and/or sexual intercourse,

- Presence of vaginal discharge, however, it is not always present.

How to treat yeast infection

Dealing with yeast infection is something that most of the women are ignoring. Unfortunately, many are not able to avoid the infection that occurs after using birth control pills, antibiotics, soaps, etc. The very first thing women should do is to consult their physician and ask whether they have yeast infection. If the diagnosis reveals that a yeast infection does in fact occur, an easy treatment could be done by taking antifungal medications like miconazole and butoconazole which could be applied topically around the vaginal area or with antifungal prescriptions which could be taken orally. Another alternative is using a natural remedy for yeast infection to beat the problem without the use of drugs and their associated side effects.

Dealing with yeast infection

Yeast infection is without a doubt, an unpleasant experience and must therefore be avoided at all cost. One can certainly avoid getting this type of infection by learning its signs and symptoms. However, if this infection already occurs, she must try to educate herself on the proper treatment to minimize discomfort and decrease the chance of getting another one in the future. Here are some helpful tips that will help in preventing the reoccurrence of yeast infection:

- Wearing of underwear made of cotton. Nylon or polyester normally hold heat and moisture therefore an infection may likely occur.

- Maintaining a regular check-up.

- Underwear must be washed well with hot water to destroy yeast that may be living there.