Yeast Infection – Symptoms and Causes

ByJanis Updated

Overview

Vaginal yeast infections are common fungal infections that affect the vagina and vulva, causing symptoms like irritation, discharge, and itching. These infections, also known as vaginal candidiasis, affect most people with vaginas at some point in their lives, with many experiencing at least two episodes.

Vaginal yeast infections aren’t classified as sexually transmitted infections, as they can occur in people who aren’t sexually active. However, sexual activity can increase the risk of developing these infections. People who begin having sex may notice a higher likelihood of yeast infections. Some cases may be linked to oral-genital sexual contact.

Most vaginal yeast infections can be effectively treated with medication. For those who experience frequent infections (four or more yearly), healthcare providers may recommend longer treatment plans and preventive strategies to reduce recurrence.

Key points:

  • Caused by fungus
  • Symptoms include irritation, discharge, and itching
  • Not considered a sexually transmitted infection
  • Sexual activity may increase risk
  • Usually treatable with medication

Signs and Symptoms

Yeast Infection Discomforts

Yeast infections can cause mild to moderate symptoms. You might experience:

  • Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva (tissues at the vaginal opening)
  • Burning sensation during sex or urination
  • Redness and swelling of the vulva (may be less visible on darker skin tones)
  • Pain and soreness in the vaginal area
  • White, thick discharge resembling cottage cheese, usually without much odor

Severe Yeast Infections

Your yeast infection might be more serious if:

  • Your symptoms are intense with significant redness, swelling, and itching that causes tears or sores
  • You get yeast infections four or more times yearly
  • Your infection stems from a less common fungus type
  • You’re currently pregnant
  • You have poorly controlled diabetes
  • You have a weakened immune system from medications or health conditions like HIV

When Medical Help Is Needed

Contact your healthcare provider if:

  • This is your first time experiencing yeast infection symptoms
  • You’re unsure if your symptoms point to a yeast infection
  • Your symptoms persist after using over-the-counter antifungal treatments
  • You notice additional symptoms beyond those listed above

Early treatment can help prevent complications and provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms.

Causes

Vaginal yeast infections typically occur when there’s an imbalance in the vagina. Usually, the vagina maintains a healthy balance between yeast (including Candida) and bacteria. Helpful bacteria called lactobacillus normally keep yeast growth in check.

Several factors can disrupt this balance, allowing Candida to grow excessively or penetrate deeper into vaginal cells. This overgrowth triggers infection symptoms.

Common factors that can lead to too much yeast include:

  • Taking antibiotics
  • Being pregnant
  • Having poorly controlled diabetes
  • Having a weakened immune system
  • Using birth control pills or hormone therapy with increased estrogen levels

Most vaginal yeast infections are caused by the fungus Candida albicans. Infections caused by other types of Candida fungi may be more difficult to treat effectively.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your chance of getting a yeast infection:

  • Taking antibiotics – These medications can kill good bacteria that normally keep yeast in check, allowing yeast to grow too much

  • Higher estrogen levels from:

    • Pregnancy
    • Birth control pills
    • Hormone therapy

  • Poorly controlled diabetes makes people more likely to get yeast infections than those who manage their blood sugar well

  • Weakened immune system from:

    • Corticosteroid medications
    • HIV infection
    • Other immune-suppressing conditions

These factors create conditions where yeast can grow more easily in the body. Knowing these risk factors can help people take steps to reduce their chances of infection.

Ways to Avoid Yeast Infections

Preventing vaginal yeast infections starts with wearing the right clothes. Choose underwear with cotton crotches that don’t fit too tightly against your body.

Here are helpful steps to reduce your risk:

  • Avoid tight clothing – Loose-fitting underwear, pants, and skirts allow better air flow
  • Skip douching – This practice removes helpful bacteria that naturally protect your vagina
  • Choose unscented products – Avoid scented soaps, bubble baths, tampons, and pads that can irritate sensitive areas
  • Limit hot baths – Excessive heat and moisture create ideal conditions for yeast growth
  • Change wet clothes promptly – Don’t stay in damp swimsuits or workout clothes longer than necessary

Be careful with antibiotics as they can disrupt your body’s natural balance. Only take antibiotics when truly needed for bacterial infections, not for viruses like colds.

Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments. Keeping the vaginal area clean and dry helps prevent infection. After swimming or exercising, change into dry clothes right away.

Cotton underwear works best because it breathes better than synthetic materials. This helps reduce moisture that yeast needs to grow. Consider sleeping without underwear to improve air circulation.

Your diet may also play a role in prevention. Some studies suggest limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates might help, as yeast feeds on sugar. Eating yogurt with live cultures or taking probiotic supplements may support healthy vaginal bacteria.

Remember that some risk factors, like diabetes or pregnancy, can make you more likely to get yeast infections. If you get frequent infections, talk to your healthcare provider about additional prevention strategies.

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.