What is Yeast Infections?
Yeast infections are an extremely common occurrence in women and girls of all ages, and most will experience at least one in their lifetimes. A vaginal yeast infection is classified as a fungal infection, and it can cause extreme discomfort and itching of the vulva and vagina. Yeast infections are notoriously uncomfortable, which makes it extremely important to see your primary care provider if you are experiencing symptoms.
Concerned that you have a yeast infection? Book an appointment now with Nebraska Home Pediatrics & Parents to find treatment and relief quickly and conveniently.
What causes yeast infections
A yeast infection is a fungal infection, typically caused by the fungus candida albicans. Similar to bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections occur when the balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. In this case, however, that imbalance allows naturally occurring yeast to grow rapidly and excessively. When this overgrowth spreads, yeast infection symptoms occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I keep getting yeast infections?
There are a few different factors that can cause recurring yeast infections, including:
- Antibiotic use
- Increased or fluctuating estrogen levels
- Compromised immune systems
- Uncontrolled or untreated diabetes
Can amoxicillin cause yeast infections?
Certain antibiotics are stronger than others when it comes to wiping out bacteria, both good and bad. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, like the antibiotic amoxicillin-clavulanate acid (Augmentin), are designed to kill a wide variety of bacteria, including the kind that keeps vaginal yeast in check.
How long do yeast infections last?
A mild yeast infection will typically clear up a few days after you begin taking medication, but it can sometimes take up to a week for symptoms to fully subside.
Do yeast infections burn?
While burning is one of the common symptoms of yeast infections, it’s not always the case in every patient.
Are yeast infections contagious?
While a yeast infection is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection, it is possible to pass a yeast infection on to a sexual partner.
Common Yeast Infection Symptoms
Yeast infections can present differently in different people, but there are some common symptoms that are quite recognizable and uncomfortable. These symptoms include:
- Irritation and itching of the vulva and vagina
- Vaginal pain
- Vaginal rash
- Burning sensation during urination
- Burning sensation during intercourse
- Swelling and redness of the vulva
- “Cottage cheese-like,” odor-free vaginal discharge
Watery vaginal discharge
Yeast Infection Treatment and Home Remedies
If this is your first time experiencing yeast infection symptoms, or if you have been treating at home with limited success, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment to be seen. Your medical provider will likely perform a pelvic exam and take a sample of vaginal fluid in order to make a diagnosis.
Yeast infection treatment varies based on the severity of your infection, as well as how frequently you have them. Your medical provider will either prescribe a topical antifungal medication or a single dose oral medication, depending on what treatment option they feel is best.
Once you begin medication, your symptoms should be relieved within a few days, although for some it can take up to a week to find full relief.
Preventing Yeast Infections
While yeast infections aren’t 100% preventable, here are a few recommendations from medical providers to reduce your risk. These include:
- Wearing cotton underwear that is not excessively tight
- Avoiding scented feminine products, douching, and excessively hot baths or jacuzzis
- Removing wet clothing (like swimsuits) as quickly as possible after you’ve finished your activities
- Avoiding excessive or unnecessary antibiotic use
Schedule an appointment for yeast infection symptoms today!
At Nebraska Home Pediatrics & Parents, we know how much a yeast infection can disrupt your life. If you are experiencing any of the above yeast infection symptoms, please call us today and schedule an appointment.