Vaginal Yeast Infection - a definition  
Candida albicans is a type of yeast that is normally present in areas of the body like the mouth, skin, digestive tract and vagina. When for some reason, an imbalance occurs and the pH level of the vagina becomes less acidic, Candida albicans can begin to multiply. This causes further upset to the normal vaginal condition and the result is a yeast infection, also known to doctors as vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Who is affected  
Nearly 3 out of 4 women experience a vaginal yeast infection at least once in a lifetime. This includes women of all ages from childhood (very rare) to beyond menopause, however, it's during the childbearing years that women are most susceptible.

Symptom check  
If you are experiencing the following symptoms, chances are you may have a yeast infection:

• Mild to intense vaginal itching
• A lumpy, white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese
• Vaginal soreness, irritation or burning, especially during intercourse
• Redness around the vagina

You should only self-medicate if you've been diagnosed with vulvovaginal candidiasis in the past and if your current symptoms seem to be the same. If, however, you're experiencing frequently recurring infections, abdominal pain, fever, foul-smelling or greenish, grayish vaginal discharges, you may have another type of infection and should consult your doctor.

It may come back  
Candida is the most common cause of vaginal infection and is the main culprit in 20 to 40 percent of all cases of infectious vaginitis. On average, 75 percent of women will experience a yeast infection at least once in their lives and 40 percent of them will experience at least 4 infections.

Should you worry  
Since yeast infections are so common and easy to cure, they generally do not lead to any serious concern even when left untreated. If you think you may be pregnant and you suspect you may have a yeast infection, see your doctor before self-medicating.

Several common causes  
There are a number of things that can throw off the balance of the vaginal environment:

Antibiotics - An unpleasant side effect of taking antibiotics is that they may alter the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to an overgrowth in Candida.

Menstruation - Frequent yeast infections may occur due to changes in hormone levels during a woman's cycle. This will vary from woman to woman and should be treated the same way, whether or not it's during menstruation.

Pregnancy - Due to increased levels of estrogen, a pregnant woman is more susceptible to recurring yeast infections up until the time of delivery. This may make it difficult to cure an infection completely during pregnancy, therefore a doctor should be consulted.

Diabetes - Abnormally high sugar levels create a breeding ground for yeast. People with diabetes must take measures to control their blood sugar levels to help prevent vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Hygiene - Using harsh vaginal deodorants, perfumed soaps, bubble baths or douching can inflame vaginal membranes and upset the normal balance of the vagina.

Clothing - Candida thrive in warm, moist environments and wearing wet bathing suits, heat-retaining nylon underwear, panty hose or tight jeans may contribute to the overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina.

Treatment  
The fast and effective way to treat a vaginal yeast infection is in the form of antifungal preparations like MONISTAT* products. Unlike medicated douches, topical ointments or home remedies, MONISTAT* doesn't just relieve the uncomfortable symptoms, it cures the infection. MONISTAT* is commonly recommended by doctors and pharmacists and is available over-the-counter. So, you don't have to wait to get the relief you want.

Prevention  
There are several things you can do that may help prevent the recurrence of yeast infections:

Maintain proper hygiene - Maintain daily genital cleanliness using gentle soap and water. Stay away from using douches with vaginal deodorants or taking bubble baths unless instructed otherwise by a doctor. It's also important to keep the external vaginal area dry, to discourage the growth of yeast, by thoroughly towelling off after bathing or dusting with plain cornstarch to absorb excess moisture.

Wear natural fibres - Tight-fitting clothing, wet bathing suits, nylon underwear and panty hose retain heat and moisture and create an environment that encourages yeast growth. Switching to cotton and other breathable, natural fibres may reduce heat and moisture to discourage yeast from multiplying.

Balance your diet - Reduce excessive intake of heavily-sweetened foods which have been linked to contributing to recurrent candidiasis. Remember, yeast thrives on sugar, so sharply decreasing your sugar intake may reduce the number of recurrent infections.

Reduce stress - In many instances, stress is clearly related to the cause of yeast infections. Putting effort towards cutting down on stressful situations in everyday life may help to decrease the episodes of candidiasis.