What is the medical name for a yeast infection?

The medical name for a yeast infection is candidiasis. This infection is usually caused by a type of yeast called candida. In case of hormonal imbalance, dietary deficiency, poor hygiene, and stress, the normal yeast that lives in the vagina can overgrow and lead to an infection.

Can anything be done to reduce the frequency of vaginal yeast infections?

Things one can do to reduce the risk of vaginal yeast infection include avoiding clothes that hold in heat and moisture, such as undergarments without a cotton lining, and wearing tight jeans. Avoid regular use of douches or vaginal sprays that can kill good bacteria and trigger imbalance, or cause irritation. Adopt healthy lifestyle habits that support strong immune function like eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding stress.

Is yeast infection a sexually transmitted disease?

Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs) because most yeast infections are usually not transmitted from person to person. However, while they are not commonly sexually transmitted, they are not rare, either. A person with an active yeast infection can sometimes pass that infection on to sexual partner through unprotected genital or oral contact. Engaging in sexual activity during a yeast infection can also exacerbate the symptoms and also delay the healing process.

Are recurrent yeast infections related to an underlying medical condition?

If a yeast infection occurs greater than five times a year, it can be a sign of concern. These yeast infections can be a sign of an underlying medical condition and may require more aggressive therapy than a single dose of medication.

Vaginal yeast infection

Written By Dr. Sakshi SharmaBDS

Reviewed By Dr. Varun Gupta

MD Pharmacology, MBBS

Last updated on: 27 Sep 2022 | 06:23 PM (IST)

Also known as Vaginal thrush, Vaginal candidiasis, Vulvovaginal candidiasis, Candidal vaginitis and Genital candidiasis

Overview

Vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection of the vagina that causes itching and burning of the vulva, the area around the vagina. Women usually have a yeast infection in the vaginal areas as this area has ideal conditions for yeast growth caused by Candida, a type of fungi.

A vaginal yeast infection causes irritation, discharge, and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva, the tissues at the vaginal opening. It affects up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their lifetimes. The infection can be prevented by wearing cotton undergarments and changing wet bathing suits and sweaty clothing immediately.

Anyone is prone to yeast infection but the people at higher risk include women who are pregnant, use hormonal contraceptives, are taking certain antibiotics, or have health conditions like diabetes or weakened immunity.

The diagnosis of yeast infection can be done by considering the medical history and undergoing a physical examination. A sample of discharge is needed from the vagina to confirm the yeast infection. Treatment of this infection is usually done with antifungal ointments or creams.

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