A yeast infection (yeast vaginitis) is caused by a fungus, candida. Commonly it is candida albicans that causes vaginitis. As many as 20% -50% of women carry yeast infection in the vaginal area. Often it does not cause any problems for most women, for other women they will develop yeast infection symptoms.

Yeast infection symptoms include the following:

•    Itching
•    Burning
•    Painful intercourse
•    White, cottage cheese like discharge

Antifungul medications are used to treat a yeast infection. The medication may be applied topically or taken orally. Commonly it is applied topically with a tablet, cream, or with a suppository because of the possible side affects of oral medication. There are over-the-counter treatments available for the treatment of a yeast infection. For women who are familiar with yeast infections due to frequent occurrences, the over-the-counter treatment is convenient and affordable. The problem with self-diagnosis and treatment is there are other medical conditions that may have similar symptoms of a yeast infection. Other infections, which should be treated by a medical professional, could have similar symptoms as a yeast infection. Those infections include the following:

•    Bacterial vaginitis
•    Chlamydia
•    Gonorrhea

Yeast infections can be prevented the following ways:

•    Wear cotton panties
•    Avoid petroleum based lubricants
•    Wipe from front to back
•    Eating yogurt with live acidophilus
•    Avoid perfumed bath products and powders
•    Don’t douche
•    Avoid hot tubs and very hot baths

Women with weakened immune systems or with diabetes are at higher risk for developing a yeast infection. Women who are tired and run down, ill, have poor eating habits, pregnant, having their period, hormonal changes, stress, lack of sleep, and certain medications put a woman at risk of getting a yeast infection.

A yeast infection is not classified as a sexually transmitted disease, but can be spread to a partner (male or female). A male may develop a rash or redness around the penis from intercourse with a woman who has a yeast infection and should be treated to avoid the woman becoming re-infected.

Yeast infections are a common among women, but easily treated by a medical care professional or by over-the-counter medications.