Yeast Infection, Vaginal

The vaginal yeast infection candidiasis (kan-di-DY-a-sis) results from an overabundance of a certain kind of fungus in the genital area. Its symptoms include an itching or burning sensation in the genital area and often a white discharge from the vagina. Genital candidiasis occurs much more frequently in women, but it also occurs in men.

What is Candidiasis?

The fungus that causes most vaginal yeast infection is usually Candida albicans (KAN-di-da AL-bi-kanz). It is naturally present in the vagina (va-JY-na), the gastrointestinal tract, and the mouth. It is part of the vaginal and gastrointestinal flora. In the vagina and in the gastrointestinal tract, the Candida organisms usually remains in balance with various bacteria that are also found in these naturally moist areas (meaning that the presence of bacteria and other components of the flora helps to keep Candida growth in check). All of these microorganisms are competitors for the same resources, and a reduction in the level of one becomes an opportunity for another to flourish. When this ecological balance is disrupted, Candida growth may become Candida overgrowth (candidiasis). Vaginal candidiasis will develop quickly when this excessive growth occurs in the vaginal area. (When Candida infection involves the mouth, it is called thrush. When it involves babies' diaper area, it is called candidal diaper rash.)

Candida fungus cells can multiply too much when a person is taking an antibiotic, which may destroy too many of the bacteria that usually keep the fungus in check. Other situations that may cause the fungus to grow out of control are the use of birth control pills, pregnancy, and the use of drugs that suppress the immune system. When a woman becomes immunocompromised (has an  immunodeficiency disease such as AIDS, or is taking an immunosuppressant medication--for example, in preparation for organ transplantation) she will also be more likely to develop a vaginal yeast infection. Sugar causes yeasts to multiply. Women with diabetes have higher blood sugar levels, and their vaginal secretions contain more glucose. Thus, a woman with diabetes is more likely to develop a vaginal yeast infection.

Estimates indicate that about 75 percent of women have a yeast infection at least once in their lifetime. Half of them have the infection more than once.

What Are the Symptoms of Candidiasis?

The most common symptom of vaginal yeast infection is an itching sensation in and around the vagina and/or vulva. The itching may be accompanied by a burning sensation and sharp, or even severe, pain. A vaginal discharge is not always present, but when it occurs it typically has a whitish appearance and a texture like that of cottage cheese. The area around the vagina also may itch or feel irritated. In yeast infections in men, the head of the penis becomes inflamed or shows a rash.

How Is Candidiasis Diagnosed and Treated?

The diagnosis of vaginal yeast infection is usually a simple matter of microscopic examination. A scraping or swab of the infected area, or a small sample of the vaginal discharge, is placed on a microscope slide. The treatment is antifungal drugs that are applied to the affected area or taken by mouth.

An individual who notices a vaginal yeast infection for the first time should see her doctor, who can then diagnose it properly before she begins treatment. Health professionals recommend that anyone with a vaginal yeast infection should also have her partner examined for infection. Women who have had previous vaginal yeast infections are often familiar enough with the infection to diagnose it themselves and begin treatment with over-the-counter creams.

How Can Candidiasis Be Prevented?

The following measures can help prevent a vaginal yeast infection:

* Wearing cotton underwear

* Avoiding tight-fitting underwear made of synthetic fiber such as nylon

* Avoiding the daily use of panty hose

* Using white, non-perfumed toilet paper

* Keeping the genital area clean

* Using a towel (not a blow dryer) to dry the genital area

* Removing a wet bathing suit as soon as possible after swimming

* Avoiding douches and feminine hygiene sprays

* Using sanitary pads or tampons that are frec of perfume

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