What is a yeast infection?
- Common fungal infection that occurs when there is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida
- Candida is always present in the body in small amounts, however, whenever there is an imbalance, such as with hormonal changes or the acidity of the vagina changes, Candida can multiply
Transmission
Transmission
- Most women have had at least one yeast infection
- The infection may spread to the vulva
- Those with weakened immune systems, pregnancy, diabetes, antibiotic use, or steroid use may be more susceptible
- Candida is not a sexually transmitted disease
Symptoms
- Genital itching or burning with or without a “cottage cheese-like” discharge
- Males may experience an itchy rash on the penis
Diagnosis
Usually made by taking a sample of the discharge and looking at it under the microscope or a culture
Treatment
- There are several antifungal medications available including those taken orally or used in the vagina
- Course of treatment can last from 1 day to 7 days
- These medications have an 8-90% success rate
- Over-the-counter medications are also available however, 2/3 of the women who treated themselves for a yeast infection did not have one
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