What Is a Yeast Infection?

Daily Health Solutions, Women's Health
on February 13, 2012

Yeast infections are common and sometimes unpleasant infections of the vagina and surrounding area. Understanding what is a yeast infection is important for proper care and treatment. Review this general overview and shed some light on an often misunderstood infection.

Definition. When the balance of the vagina’s normal flora is off kilter, a yeast infection can occur. The fungus most often at the root cause of vaginal yeast infections is Candida albicans. Yeast is one of the many normal flora that is found in the mouth, vagina and even on the surface of the skin. Many women have asymptomatic yeast infections and don’t even know it. According to Women’s Health, yeast infections are very common, and as many as 75 percent of women will get a yeast infection in their lifetime. Yeast infections are not a sexually transmitted disease.

Symptoms. If you have ever experienced a yeast infection, you will not forget the signs that it's on its way. Signs include:

  • Burning of the vagina and surrounding area
  • Redness of the vagina and surrounding area
  • Itchiness of the vagina and surrounding area.
  • Inflammation of the vagina and surrounding area
  • Pain during sex
  • Pain when urinating
  • Vaginal soreness
  • An odorless, thick, white discharge

Diagnosis. If you experience any or all of the symptoms of a yeast infection, consult with your physician. Sometimes the symptoms of other infections or diseases can share the symptoms of a yeast infection. In order to properly diagnose a yeast infection, your doctor will perform a pelvic examination to look for swelling, redness and discharge. A swab of the fluid may be taken to verify the yeast infection and rule out other diseases.

Treatment. These days, treatment for a yeast infection is more accessible than ever. Prescription and nonprescription options are available for treating a yeast infection. These treatments include:

  • Antifungal suppositories of miconazole, clotrimazole, tioconazole and butoconazole
  • Antifungal tablets
  • The prescription antifungal, fluconazole

Note: If using any treatment for yeast infections, be sure to read and follow the directions. Take the full course of medication so you don’t get a repeated infection. The creams and suppositories often come in one-, three- and seven-day courses. If you haven’t had many yeast infections, you may wish to use the nonprescription options. Be aware, however, that overuse of nonprescription creams may lead to resistance to them. If you are experiencing reoccurring yeast infections or are at all concerned, see your physician.