OverviewA vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva — the tissues at the vaginal opening. Show
Also called vaginal candidiasis, vaginal yeast infection affects up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their lifetimes. Many women experience at least two episodes. A vaginal yeast infection isn't considered a sexually transmitted infection. But, there's an increased risk of vaginal yeast infection at the time of first regular sexual activity. There's also some evidence that infections may be linked to mouth to genital contact (oral-genital sex). Medications can effectively treat vaginal yeast infections. If you have recurrent yeast infections — four or more within a year — you may need a longer treatment course and a maintenance plan. SymptomsYeast infection symptoms can range from mild to moderate, and include:
Complicated yeast infectionYou might have a complicated yeast infection if:
When to see a doctorMake an appointment with your doctor if:
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of that information as protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesThe fungus candida albicans is responsible for most vaginal yeast infections. Your vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast, including candida, and bacteria. Certain bacteria (lactobacillus) act to prevent an overgrowth of yeast. But that balance can be disrupted. An overgrowth of candida or penetration of the fungus into deeper vaginal cell layers causes the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection. Overgrowth of yeast can result from:
Candida albicans is the most common type of fungus to cause yeast infections. Yeast infections caused by other types of candida fungus can be more difficult to treat, and generally need more-aggressive therapies. Risk factorsFactors that increase your risk of developing a yeast infection include:
PreventionTo reduce your risk of vaginal yeast infections, wear underwear that has a cotton crotch and doesn't fit too tightly. It might also help to avoid:
March 17, 2021
RelatedAssociated ProceduresProducts & ServicesWhy does peeing hurt with a yeast infection?These infections occur when the yeast populations in the vagina grow to greater numbers than normal. This increase in yeast leads to inflammation of the urethra, which in turn could result in urination becoming more painful.
Can a yeast infection cause UTI like symptoms?Can a yeast infection cause UTI symptoms? While yeast infections are not known to cause UTIs, they can have common symptoms. Burning while urinating is an example of a symptom that can occur in a UTI and yeast infection.
Can you get a UTI from a yeast infection?Since UTIs are often treated with antibiotics, that creates a connection for some women. It's also possible to have both infections at the same time. While many health practitioners say that yeast infections are not known to cause UTIs1, there are some studies emerging that in fact show a connection.
Can a vaginal infection cause painful urination?If you have a vaginal infection or inflammation, you may feel pain when urine passes over the inflamed tissue. And if the urethra is inflamed, you could feel pain as the urine passes through it. (The urethra is the tube that carries urine from your bladder.)
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