Yeast infections can affect all men, women and children as well. How do women get a yeast infection? What are some of the known causes of vaginal candidiasis? The purpose of this article is to provide answers to these questions that most women are unaware of.
In women, whenever the acid balance of the vagina is disturbed for any reason, infection occurs. Also known as vaginal yeast infection, common symptoms of the infection include vaginal itching, thick cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, redness, and a burning sensation in and around the vulva. This type of vaginal infection is very common and almost all women get it at least once during their childbearing years.
Our vagina is a self-lubricating organ that is slightly acidic in nature. Normally, a healthy vagina is able to ensure that a proper balance of chemicals is maintained at all times. This ensures that the correct amount of yeast and bacteria remain in the vagina without causing any infection or health problems. However, whenever the acid balance is disturbed, the harmful yeast and bacteria begin to multiply in large numbers, leading to a yeast overgrowth or vaginal yeast infection.
Why do women get thrush or vaginal candidiasis?
1. Underwear
A number of factors are capable of causing vaginal infections. For example, wearing underwear made from synthetic fabrics or pantyhose can be responsible for yeast multiplying in large numbers in the vagina. This happens because synthetic fabrics do not allow air circulation in the vaginal area. This causes sweat to collect in the vagina and groin area. Moist conditions are ideal for yeast to thrive.
2. Vaginal hygiene products
As mentioned above, factors that disturb the vaginal acid balance are the main cause of this infection. This imbalance is often triggered by chemicals in over-the-counter feminine hygiene products such as douches, deodorant sprays, and sometimes bubble baths. Therefore, to stay away from vaginal yeast infections in general, it is best not to use these products in and around the vaginal area.
3. Pregnancy, use of birth control pills and menstruation
Pregnant women often get yeast infections during their first time. Similarly, women who use birth control pills are also prone to vaginal infections. Yeast overgrowth occurs in some women during the menstrual period due to hormonal changes occurring in the body.
4. Blood sugar
Women with diabetes can get this infection frequently, especially when their blood sugar levels are not under control.
5. Antibiotics
Certain antibiotics capable of altering the vaginal acid balance are often responsible for causing vaginal candidiasis. This happens because antibiotics destroy the good bacteria required in a healthy vagina, allowing yeast and harmful bacteria to multiply in large numbers.