Yeast Infection Quiz: Symptoms & Treatment

Yeast infections are caused by a fungus. Candida species are the most common fungi that cause yeast infections. Candida albicans is the specific type that most often causes yeast vaginitis.

Yeast may be present in a healthy vagina, so yeast vaginitis is not considered to be a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Yeast infections also may occur in celibate women.

Most doctors do not recommend douching unless specifically prescribed, because the vagina cleanses itself naturally.

Vaginal itching is the most common symptom of yeast vaginitis. Other symptoms of vaginal yeast infection can include:

- a thick, whitish discharge;
- burning;
- soreness, and/or pain during intercourse; or
- pain during urination.

A recurrent yeast infection is defined as a yeast infection that occurs four or more times in one year that is not related to taking antibiotics. Recurrent yeast infections may be a sign of an underlying medical condition and may require more aggressive therapy than single infections.

Chlamydia symptoms and symptoms of other infections and STDs are similar to those of yeast vaginitis. Some conditions that may produce similar signs and symptoms include bacterial vaginosis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. If yeast infection symptoms are not cured by over-the-counter treatments, see your doctor for evaluation.

Women with HIV infection have similar treatment options as uninfected women for treatment of vaginal yeast infection. However, treatment may take longer or may need to be repeated in women with HIV.

Not all yeast infections can be prevented, but you can take steps to reduce the likelihood of getting a yeast infection, such as:

- Wearing cotton or silk underwear to minimize excess moisture
- Change your underwear often
- Avoid douching and feminine hygiene sprays
- Consume yogurt with active bacterial cultures to replenish normal, healthy bacteria

Vaginal yeast infections can occur when there is an increase in the amount of yeast already present in the vagina relative to the level of normal bacteria. They may also develop when new yeast is introduced into the vaginal area.

Acidophilus (acid-off-ill-us) is a kind of probiotic bacteria found in some kinds of yogurt that can help maintain a healthy bacterial environment in the intestines. Consuming yogurt with acidophilus has many benefits, and may also help prevent Candida infection (thrush), including in the vagina.