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Vaginal Yeast Infection
Vaginal Yeast Infection

Vaginal Yeast Infection conditions and Treatment in London

Yeast infection, which is also called vaginal candidiasis, is an infection that causes discharge, itchiness and irritation of the vulva and vagina. Fungi causes vaginal yeast infection and affects the tissues at the vaginal opening.

Vaginal yeast infection is very common, and 3 out of 4 women will get infected at one point in their lives. Most women will have a minimum of 2 vaginal yeast infection episodes. This infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but you might be at higher risk of yeast infection during the initial times of sexual involvement with a partner. Research has shown that there might be a link between yeast infection and mouth to vagina contact.

There are several medications available used in the treatment of vaginal yeast infections. You can inform your healthcare provider if you have recurring yeast infections within a year (4 or more). They may prescribe a new or longer course of treatment and maintenance plan for this.

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What are the symptoms of vaginal yeast infection?

 Symptoms of this infection can range from mild to moderate and may include:

  • Rash in your vagina
  • Irritation and itching in the vagina and vulva
  • Soreness and pain in the vagina
  • Watery vaginal discharge
  • Swelling and redness of the vulva
  • Burning sensation while urinating and during sexual intercourse
  • White, thick, odourless vaginal discharge looking like cottage cheese

What are the complications of yeast infection?

You might notice complications with your yeast infection if:

  • You are pregnant
  • You have a weakened immune system due to certain medications or conditions, such as HIV.
  • You have over four yeast infections in a year
  • Your diabetes is uncontrolled
  • You are showing severe signs such as sores or cracks, excessive redness, itching and swelling that causes tears.
  • A less regular fungus causes your infection.

When should you see your health provider?

You should schedule an appointment with your doctor if:

  • You have other symptoms
  • You are unsure if you have a yeast infection.
  • This is the first time you are having symptoms of yeast infections
  • You make use of over-the-counter antifungal vaginal suppositories or creams

What are the causes of yeast infection?

The majority of vaginal yeast infections are caused by the fungus candid albicans. Your vagina contains naturally existing bacteria and candida. Lactobacillus is a bacteria that functions to avoid the overgrowth of yeast. When the balance in the vagina is disrupted, candida overgrowth or fungal penetration into deeper cell layers in the vagina can result in yeast infection.

Yeast overgrowth can be caused by one of the following:

  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Pregnancy
  • Use of antibiotics - this causes an imbalance in the natural vaginal flora
  • Weakened immune system
  • Using hormone therapy or oral contraceptives that increase your oestrogen levels

Candida albicans is the most popular fungi that causes yeast infection. Yeast infections that are caused by other types of candida fungus are more challenging to treat and may need a more aggressive treatment approach.

What are the risk factors associated with yeast infection?

The following factors increase your risk of having a yeast infection.

  • Use of antibiotics:

    Vaginal yeast infection is more common in women taking antibiotics. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, while killing bacteria in the body, also kill the healthy bacteria in the vagina, which leads to yeast overgrowth.

  • Weakened immune system:

    If you have a weakened immune system as a result of medications or treatment such as corticosteroid therapy or infections like HIV, you are more likely to have a yeast infection.

  • Increased oestrogen levels

    Women who have higher oestrogen levels are at higher risk of a yeast infection. This oestrogen level change can be due to pregnancy, oestrogen hormone therapy, or oestrogen birth control pills.

  • Uncontrolled diabetes:

    Diabetic women are at higher risk of a yeast infection as compared to non-diabetic women.

How can a yeast infection be prevented?

There are several methods you can employ to reduce your risk of vaginal candidiasis such as wearing cotton underwear that is not overly tight. You can also avoid:

  • Scalding baths and hot tubs
  • Tightly fitted pantyhose
  • Scented feminine products, including tampons, pads, and toilet paper
  • Douching
  • Make use of water-based lubricants
  • Staying in wet clothes such as workout fits or swimsuits
  • Unnecessary use of antibiotics for cold and viral infections

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At STI Clinic UK, your sexual health and general well-being are very important to us. If you notice symptoms of vaginal yeast infections or have multiple infections in a year, reach out to us for medical advice. We will be happy to provide you with a tailored treatment course.