vagadminDo you have a yeast infection? If so, we’re here to answer all your questions and help you find the best treatment options for yeast infections.
Symptoms of a vaginal or oral yeast infection vary from person to person. Still, they can include itching and irritation in the affected area and a genital discharge that is typically thick and white with an odour.
The Facts: UK Statistics on Yeast Infections
- In the UK, there were over 350,000 cases of candidiasis reported in 2013.
- About 75% of the UK population will experience at least one yeast infection by middle age.
- Women are twice as likely to get a yeast infection than men because they have urethra openings that bacteria can readily travel through into the vagina and reproductive organs, where it causes problems.
1. What is a yeast infection and what causes it
A yeast infection is a common condition in which there is an overgrowth of yeast. The most apparent external signs are itching and burning. Still, thrush or vaginal infections can also cause unusual discharge that may be white or greyish and have a thick texture compared to normal secretions.
2. How do you know if you have a yeast infection
The most common symptom is itching and burning in the vaginal area, but it can also be redness, swelling (particularly around the vagina), pain when urinating and during penetrative sex.
3. What are the symptoms of a yeast infection
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have a yeast infection:
- Itchiness.
- A thick, white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese and has a yeasty smell.
- Redness around the vagina area.
- Vaginal pain.
- Pain during penetrative sex.
- Discomfort or soreness in your lower abdomen or back.
- A burning sensation around the vaginal opening.
- Dry, peeling skin on the outside of your vagina or inner thigh area.
- Painful cracking and redness can also occur if you have a yeast infection irritating the surrounding skin.
This is just a guide, but any of the above are worth seeking medical assistance on – in other words, visit your doctor.
4. Can I get a yeast infection from having sex with my partner
Although it’s possible to transmit a yeast infection to your partner through sexual activity, the likelihood of this depends on your partner’s anatomy. If your sexual partner has a penis, they’re less likely to contract a yeast infection from you.
5. When should I see my doctor about getting an oral or vaginal medication to treat a yeast infection?
Your doctor can help you figure out which medication is right for your yeast infection.
When should I see my doctor about getting an oral or vaginal medication to treat a yeast infection? Your doctor can help you figure out which medicine is suitable for your yeast infection.
6. Is there any way to prevent getting another yeast infection in the future?
There are several ways to prevent yeast infections in the future:
- A daily probiotic supplement is one of them.
- This will maintain healthy bacteria in the body.
- Other ways are to drink live-culture yoghurt, avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing, and wipe from front to back after going to the bathroom.
- In addition, keep your genital area clean and dry at all times.
- If you do this, there is a lesser chance of getting another yeast infection.
