A yeast infection is a bacterial infection which can occur due to any number of reasons, but the most common ones being that of transference through sexual intercourse, a steady usage of antibiotics or steroids, and the wrong diet.

You also have such factors as pregnancy, stress, the wrong clothing, hormonal imbalances, and the use of scented feminine hygiene products and douches.

These are only the most common causes for a yeast infection to occur. There are others such as a weakened immune system, through a sexually transmitted disease, and if you have prolonged contact with semen.

It should be noted at this point that although a yeast infection can be transmitted from one partner to another during sexual intercourse, it is not classified as being an STD, or a sexually transmitted disease.

A yeast infection can be cured with prescription medications, and lately with over-the-counter medications, but there is a chance that it could occur again, especially if you don’t take any preventative measures, or you are subjected to it again without your knowledge normally through sexual intercourse with an infected partner.

Symptoms of a yeast infection will normally make itself well known, and you should consult a physician immediately to rule out any other condition as being the cause for the condition.

Symptoms can sometimes include intense and unbearable itching, rash, a burning sensation, vaginal discharge, and pain during sexual intercourse. You might also notice a slight swelling of the vulva, redness around the affected area, and the need for frequent urination.

The vaginal discharge which was mentioned above is a well known identifying sign of a yeast infection. It can occur as a thin watery or milky substance with an egg white appearance, it can be firm and yellowish, or it can have a cottage cheese-like texture to it.

The vaginal discharge might also have an odor accompanying it, and this can tend to be acrid and very pungent, sometimes with a sulphuric smell to it. It can also be quite odorless and in quite a few cases you will only get a slight yeasty smell.

A yeast infection if properly taken care of can be cured within a few weeks, although in some cases it might take longer than that. With the necessary precautions and the preventative measures undertaken though you should be able to overcome this minor setback with little to no problems.