Vaginal Yeast Infection

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

A vaginal yeast infection is caused by one of a group of fungal organisms known as Candida. These include Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, and Candida parapsilosis.

What is going on in the body?

Candida organisms are normally found in the vagina in small numbers. Their number is kept in check by the normal bacteria that also live there. Certain situations can disrupt this balance and allow a vaginal yeast infection to develop.

What are the causes and risks of the infection?

Vaginal yeast infections are caused by Candida organisms. Some diseases and conditions that increase a woman's risk for vaginal yeast infection include:

diabetes that is poorly controlled

HIV infection

immuodeficiency disorders, which weaken the woman's response to infection

menopause

pregnancy

Other factors that increase the risk for a vaginal yeast infection include:

a diet high in sugar

antibiotic therapy

corticosteroid use

oral contraceptive use

sexual activity, which can change the acid-base balance in the vagina

using feminine hygiene products

wearing tight clothing or nylon underwear

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Symptoms & Signs

What are the signs and symptoms of the infection?

The most common symptoms of vaginal yeast infections include:

burning with urination or sexual intercourse

redness and inflammation of the vulva and vagina

vaginal discharge which is typically thick and white, with a "cottage cheese" consistency

vaginal or vulvar itching

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Diagnosis & Tests

How is the infection diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a vaginal yeast infection begins with a medical history and physical exam. The healthcare provider may do a pelvic exam and Pap smear to rule out other infections. A sample of the vaginal discharge may be sent to the lab to check for Candida and other organisms.

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Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Helpful measures to prevent vaginal yeast infections include:

asking sexual partners to use a condom

controlling blood glucose levels if the woman has diabetes

limiting intake of dietary sugars

limiting time spent in a wet bathing suit

limiting use of feminine hygiene products

using antifungal creams, such as miconazole, clotrimazole, or nystatin when taking oral antibiotics

wearing loose clothing and cotton underwear

wiping the buttocks from front to back after bowel movements

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

With proper treatment, the infection should resolve in a few days to a week.

What are the risks to others?

Vaginal yeast infections are not believed to be transmitted from one person to another.

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Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the infection?

A woman may choose to use an over-the-counter antifungal medicine. These medicines are inserted into the vagina. Some examples include miconazole, clotrimazole, and nystatin. The healthcare provider can prescribe stronger antifungal creams. The provider can also order an oral medicine called fluconazole.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Vaginal creams may cause vulvar burning. Fluconazole may cause stomach upset or allergic reaction.

What happens after treatment for the infection?

Women should avoid sexual intercourse until the symptoms are gone and the course of treatment has been completed. Douching, bubble baths, hygiene sprays, or scented soaps around the vulva may irritate the skin.

How is the infection monitored?

Women who have repeated yeast infections that persist despite treatment should see a healthcare provider. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

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Attribution

Author:Eva Martin, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:05/31/01
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:05/07/01

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