A vaginal yeast infection can be irritating, embarrassing and painful for women to endure. It is created by an over abundance of fungus in the vaginal area that has common symptoms like by vaginal discharge and burning. To determine if you have one, you can simply get a yeast infection test.
These are easy to find and purchase from local drug stores and are inexpensive. Many experts recommend however to schedule a visit with your family physician or gynecologist. By doing this you can be proactive with your health and routinely monitor your body.
These infections, also known as candidiasis, are quite common in most women and most often can be treated easily. It begins with a fungus known as candida. Candida actually is present in very small portions within the gastrointestinal tract, mouth and vagina. If this fungus exists within the vagina then a yeast infection will develop. Once this happens, it is pretty evident and noticeable to the individual because of the uncomfortable vaginal discharge, itching and burning.
These issues can be brought upon by the use of contraceptive sponge, spermicides, diaphragms and the use of certain antibiotics. Other things that may bring on these symptoms are the use of vaginal rings, hormonal birth control pills, or using the birth control patch.
The majority of women will have at least one occurrence of a vaginal yeast infection within their lifetime. A common yeast infection test can help detect the need for medication. Women can commonly experience these irritations during pregnancy. What attributes these flare ups are the presence of higher levels of estrogen during pregnancy. The vagina then produces excessive glycogen, or sugar. This then feeds and creates yeast. Also, those that suffer from diabetes tend to get infections with more frequency.
Approximately five to eight percent of women can develop what is known as recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. This is a recurring episode of yeast infections within the period of one year. It is most common in women who struggle with diabetes or who have immune system issues. Many of these women typically do not have any other medical illness that would indicate or lead up to having these infections.
These vaginal infections at times can be attributed to bacterial vaginosis. This is the most frequent cause of vaginitis for women who are still within the age for childbearing. Women can also be at risk for trichomoniasis. This, however, is an infection that is sexually transmitted. Trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis are can be related to more complicated reproductive health issues. This includes an increased risk of contracting an STD, or sexually transmitted disease or even experience the premature birth of a newborn fetus.
These serious infections can have very similar symptoms to normal vaginal yeast infections, yet have much more serious reproductive issues. It is very critical to to visit a health care professional or physician and have them perform a yeast infection test. By doing this they can help to diagnose and evaluate all symptoms of the vagina. There are many medications that can treat the most common vaginal infections. The most important thing to do however is to receive a proper diagnosis.