Yeast Infection, Vaginal

The vaginal yeast infection candidiasis (kan-di-DY-a-sis) is caused by 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, very typically, a white discharge from the vagina. Almost all cases of candidiasis affect women, although men also can show related signs of the infection.

What Is Candidiasis?

The fungus that causes vaginal yeast ^* infection is usually Candida albicans (KAN-di-da AL-bi-kanz). It is naturally present in many parts of

the body and grows in the vagina (va-JY-na), the gastrointestinal ^* tract, and the mouth. It is usually kept under control by a balance with various bacteria ^* that also are normally found in these naturally moist areas. Candidiasis will occur when this balance is disrupted and too many of the fungus cells are present 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 the use of antibiotics ^* destroy too many of the bacteria that usually keep them 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 has a disease like AIDS or diabetes that can cause weakening of the immune system, she will also be more likely to develop a vaginal yeast infection.

It is estimated that 75 percent of women have a yeast infection at least once in their life. Half of them will have the infection more than once.

What Are the Symptoms of Candidiasis?

The most notable symptom of vaginal yeast infection is a white discharge from the vagina. The discharge has the appearance 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?

Vaginal yeast infection is easily diagnosed by examining a sample of the white vaginal discharge. Treatment is with antifungal drugs ^* that are applied to the affected area or taken by mouth in the form of a pill.

While some creams for vaginal yeast infections are available without a prescription, it is advisable to see a doctor the first time a vaginal yeast infection is noticed. It is important to have any infection diagnosed properly before treatment is started. Health professionals recommend that anyone with a vaginal yeast infection should also have her partner examined for infection.

How Can Candidiasis Be Prevented?

These steps can help prevent a vaginal yeast infection:

• Wearing cotton underwear
• Avoiding tight-fitting underwear made of synthetic fiber, like nylon
• Avoiding the daily use of panty hose
• Using white, nonperfumed 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 free of perfume