Vaginal Yeast Infection Symptoms, Causes, And Prevention

The vagina is usually self-cleaning, self-maintaining, and keeps balance on its own. However, if things aren’t going right down there, there might be discomfort and, in some cases, a vaginal yeast infection, leading to itching, burning, pain, and dryness. There are many reasons why you might have a yeast infection. It can range from your diet to poor hygiene to excessive cleansing of the vagina. No worries; proper awareness and visiting your doctor can help you eliminate the disease. 

There have been several cases and instances when women have experienced extreme vaginal yeast infections due to the use of plastic sanitary napkins. Gone are the days when people believed cloth pads or sustainable pads weren’t hygienic enough. Repad has crushed such beliefs and integrated superior technology to develop reusable sanitary pads or cloth sanitary pads that are incredibly safe and help you maintain sound vaginal health. 

However, if you still encounter the fungus, there are ways in which you can prevent a vaginal yeast infection. Before that, let’s discuss the symptoms of this infection, its causes, and the prevention and treatment of this disease. 

What Is Vaginal Yeast Infection?

A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection wherein your body contracts a kind of yeast called candida. It is also termed vulvovaginal candidiasis or vaginal candidiasis. It is a fungus type that causes issues only when it is imbalanced. In this case, rapid growth eventually leads to an infection. A few symptoms of this infection include redness in the vulva, the outer side of the vagina, extreme burning, itching, and vaginal discharge. 

It must also be noted that vaginal yeast infection isn’t a sexually transmitted disease (STD). However, a 2021 US report states that an infection can transfer during vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The risks are comparatively low if the partner is a male. However, about 15% of males experience itchiness after intercourse with the infected person. 

Which fungus causes a yeast infection?

The fungus, Candida, lives in several parts of the body. From the mouth, the digestive tract to the vagina, it exists in all these places. It doesn't cause any discomfort unless its growth is in control. The other bacteria in the body help to keep Candida’s growth in control. Despite this, good bacteria often fail to keep control, and one suffers from an infection. 

The Yeast Infection Symptoms

Below are the yeast infection symptoms. They can be mild, moderate, to even extreme when some women can be experiencing it more than three to four times a year.

• Irritation in the vagina and vulva
• Constant itching sensation
• A burning sensation in the vagina after intercourse
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Swollen vulva
• Pain and soreness in the vagina
• Rashes 
• Watery or thick white-colored vaginal discharge (not all kinds of discharges are alarming)

Do remember that the vaginal yeast infection symptoms differ from person to person. While some may have frequent bouts of the condition, others may have it very rarely. 

Vaginal Yeast Infection Causes

Now we know that the infection takes place when Candida grows. Several causes which led to its growth include: 

• Uncontrollable Diabetes: Women with high sugar levels tend to suffer from the infection. 
• Weak Immune System: A weakened immune system for varied reasons like extensive medication, HIV infection, chemotherapy, or radiation might lead to an infection. 
• Pregnancy or hormones: Whenever hormones are disrupted or undergo changes, candida faces an imbalance. In case of pregnancy or using oral birth control may lead to the infection. 
• Antibiotics: Consumption of antibiotics can also disrupt the balance of good bacteria in the system. Antibiotics kill the good bacteria, which leads to infection in the vagina. 

Treatment

Vaginal yeast infection can be easily treated if you visit or see your healthcare provider. Make sure you follow their instructions until you see improvement. It is best to follow the entire course of treatment so that the infection doesn’t return. 

It is best to visit a doctor if it is your first time experiencing such symptoms. Some yeast infections require a different treatment if they are more aggressive. Therefore, rather than over-the-counter medication, choose to get yourself treated. 

Vaginal Yeast Infection Prevention

A vagina yeast infection can be easily prevented if you know the causes. Below are a few things you can easily follow to avoid such infections. 

• Avoid douching the vagina, as it removes the good bacteria essential to keep the vagina healthy. 
• Avoid wearing tight underwear, pants, or jeans that create too much moisture in the vaginal area. 
• Pick underwear with a cotton crotch. It helps to keep the vaginal area dry without retaining warmth and moisture. 
• Do not stay in your swimsuit or gym outfits for longer periods of time
• After using the toilet, make sure to wipe from front to back 
• Take care of your hormonal balance and maintain your diabetes. 
• Avoid the use of scented feminine hygiene products, especially pads

To maintain the good health of your vagina, there is no need to invest in special products. All one has to do is choose the right daily vaginal health products. Repad offers many safe period products, including reusable sanitary pads, menstrual cups, and panty liners that protect the vagina. They are made of natural anti-microbial fiber that is chemical-free. So, choose sustainable and toxin-free products to prevent infections and stay healthy.