Vulvovaginal candidiasis, also referred to as candidal vaginitis, monilial infection or vaginal yeast infection, is a very common cause of vaginal irritation. 75% of women are likely to have a yeast infection in their lifetime and more than 50% will have more than one occurrence. Vaginal Yeast Infection Photos.

Cause

A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth or overabundance of yeast cells (candida albicans) which normally colonize the vagina in small numbers. Factors associated with cause are pregnancy, diabetes, oral contraceptives, antibiotics, douches and tight poorly ventilated clothing.

Symptoms

Itching, burning and irritation of the vagina are the most common symptoms and are usually accompanied by a thick white or cottage-cheese like discharge that can smell like beer or bread. (If the discharge has a spoiled or fishy odor, it is more likely Bacterial Vaginosis). Male genital yeast infections are more common than you would think and if left untreated, are very likely to passed back and forth between partners.

Diagnosis

Yeast infections are typically diagnosed by a doctor under a microscope. However, once you are familiar with the symptoms, you may be able to tell yourself when it recurs. (Caution is advised here as some women misdiagnose themselves.)

Treatment

There are currently several ways to treat a yeast infection. Anti fungal medications are typically prescribed in the form of either creams or pills. While most anti fungal cremes such as Monistat can be purchased over the counter, oral medications can such as Diflucan must be prescribed by your doctor.

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