Yikes! Do I Have A Yeast Infection?

If there’s one thing that all women have in common, it’s the possibility of a yeast infection. Yeast infections are a common issue faced by most women at some point during their lives, but surprisingly enough, not many people know what exactly they are, or how to treat them.

So, what is a yeast infection? A yeast infection is a type of fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida Albicans, a type of fungus naturally found on our bodies. These infections are common in the reproductive years and menopausal years. This fungus is normally kept in check by the good bacteria that also live on our bodies. However, when this balance between good and bad bacteria is disturbed (either due to hormonal changes or certain medications) the fungus can grow out of control and cause an infection.

Symptoms typically include vaginal, itching, redness, inflammation of the vulva, swelling, and itching in and around your vaginal opening. Also, there’s no vaginal odour with a yeast infection. There can be pain or discomfort, and there’s a thick white discharge that looks like cottage cheese. You may also experience burning sensation while urinating or during intercourse. These symptoms can vary from person to person so it’s important to talk to your doctor if you suspect you have a yeast infection.

Remember, knowledge is power; now that you know more about yeast infections, you’ll be better prepared the next time one comes along!