Vaginal Yeast Infection or Candidiasis is caused by an imbalance of the yeast cells in the vaginal area, due to ph levels and acid balance. The body naturally contains a certain amount of bacteria, and yeast feed on the bacteria, and when an imbalance occurs, the yeast concentration causes symptoms or an infection to develop. Itching, redness, soreness, or a "cottage cheese like" discharge normally characterizes the infection. It is estimated that 75% of women have had an infection at least once in their life, and many have had numerous recurrences.
A visit to the doctor's office can confirm if a yeast infection is present since symptoms are similar to those of sexually transmitted diseases. Both prescription and over the counter medication is available, but if you take an over the counter medicine when an infection is not present it may increase the likelihood of getting one. The medication may cause an imbalance when one was not present.
Diet can help in the prevention of yeast infections by minimizing unhealthy yeast growth. Many times a patient may have a diet rich in sweets or crave sweets because the yeast is feeding on the sugars, just yeast does when bread is made. A diet that is rich in carbohydrates or sugars may lead to yeast growth since the body converts carbohydrates in sugar for fuel. A balanced diet of fruit, vegetables, non-fat dairy products, whole grains and possibly yogurt or acidophilus milk may be the best deterrent to yeast infections.
In addition to diet, specific hygienic activities may discourage contacting a vaginal yeast infection. Tight fitting pants and pantyhose should be avoided whenever possible. Cotton crotch underwear or pantyhose helps, but you would be best suited if you could get by without underwear. Skirts, dresses and other loose fitting garment s are best. You should also wipe from front to back when you go to the bathroom, and avoid feminine sprays and soaps. Taking a bath can help balance yeast growth, while showering does not. You should also use tampons instead of feminine napkins and avoid perfumed douches.
Yeast infections can occur anywhere in the body so you may observe digestive and intestinal yeast infections. Once again, this explains why diet may help keep yeast at appropriate levels by keeping the body's ph and acid levels in check. A moist warm area is where yeast grows best, this explains why is often occurs in the vagina or cervix area.
The chances of getting a yeast infection are greater after you have had one already. It can be difficult to maintain an appropriate balance in the best of times, but when you have a immune deficiency or are experiencing high levels of stress you may be more susceptible to infection. This explains why women may contract their first infection at the same time when they have a cold or the flu.
Prevention of a vaginal yeast infection is more desirable then curing one. Prevention of an initial infection or a reoccurrence is best achieved by eating correctly, keeping your immune system strong through the use of multi-vitamins and natural herb supplements, keeping your stress to a minimum and maintaining proper hygiene.