When you hear the words “yeast infection” you are probably automatically thinking vaginal, right. Yeast infections in women are the most common forms of infection. It can be painful, irritating and embarrassing. Many things can cause this type of infection and women really should know the warning signs so that it can be treated quickly so you don’t have to worry about the risk of a recurring infection.
What causes yeast infections in women? Well the answer to that question actually is a lot of things. Everyone has small amounts of yeast located in and on their bodies. Women carry it on their skin, in their mouths, and yes even down there. It’s natural to have a little bit living on you. Occasionally though, something gets out of balance and when that happens yeast can start to take over and thus the yeast infection begins. The important thing is to speak to your doctor if you notice something wrong so that it can be treated early.
How do you know something’s wrong. If you have pain when passing urine or you’ve noticed a burning sensation there you might have an infection. True that infection may be a bladder infection but there are other symptoms. The area may be swollen and red also. You may be sore in general down there and may experience pain during intercourse. You may also have discharge that looks kind of like cottage cheese.
The best way to be sure that you have a yeast infection is to visit your doctor. He will do a pelvic exam to look for the swelling and discharge mention. He may also swab the area and confirm it with labs. It won’t take days for him to confirm whether or not you suffer from a yeast infection. The best thing you can do once your doctor has confirmed the infection is to follow his instructions to the letter. If you are very familiar with this type of illness you may be able to use simple over the counter products or you may even opt to use natural remedies such as garlic suppositories or apple-cider vinegar baths for relief.
All types of women can get yeast infections. Some women have a higher chance than others such as those on the pill or taking antibiotics or illegal steroids. Women who are menstruating or pregnant have a higher chance of getting this type of infection. Also women who have high stress levels, poor diets, and lack sleep have a higher chance of getting this infection too.
There are ways to avoid getting another yeast infection. Avoid scented items such as sprays, pads, and tampons. If you use tampons during your period be sure to change it often. Don’t war tight underwear, cotton is the best fabric, and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible. Also avoid douching as it can unbalance your natural pH and bacteria levels.
Yeast infections in women are very common. The important thing to remember is that most women will suffer from at least one of these in her lifetime. If you should suffer from recurring infections, more than four a year, you should speak with your doctor. He may be able to assist you in figuring out why.
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