How Do I Check Myself for a Yeast Infection?

Vaginal yeast infections are caused by Candida albicans, a fungus that lives on the skin, mouth, and genitals. These infections usually occur as infrequent episodes but can recur frequently and may cause chronic persistent symptoms.

Vaginal yeast infections are rare before puberty (before the initiation of regular menstrual cycles) and after menopause (end of menstrual cycles).

Vaginal yeast infections are also called:

• Vulvovaginal candidiasis
• Yeast vaginitis

Vaginal yeast infections are common in women aged 20 to 40 years and are often linked to the use of:

• Antibiotics, birth control pills, or steroids
• Contraceptive devices
• Hormonal changes from regular periods and pregnancy
• Diabetes (high blood sugar makes you more prone to yeast infection)
• Stress
• Clothing, such as tight undergarments
• Vaginal douche products
• Weak immune system (due to conditions, such as human immunodeficiency virus, chemotherapy, or organ transplant)

Vaginal yeast infections are very uncomfortable, often nonserious, and not transmitted sexually. 

The signs and symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:

• Itching and irritation in the vagina
• Redness and swelling of the vulva (folds of the skin around the vaginal opening)
• Pain and burning while urinating
• Pain during sexual activity
• A white discharge resembling cottage cheese

Your doctor may ask a few questions to confirm yeast infection, such as:

• Medical history: Past vaginal infections or sexually transmitted diseases.
• Pelvic examination: The doctor may use an instrument, called a speculum, to open and hold the vaginal walls and examine the vagina and cervix (narrow end of the uterus).
• Vaginal swab test: A sample of vaginal secretion will be collected and analyzed for the causative organism.

Treatment may depend on the severity of the infection.

• In mild to moderate severity, antifungal medications, such as miconazole and terconazole, are prescribed for three to seven days.
• A few of these medications are over-the-counter (without a prescription) drugs. 
• Antifungal medications are available as pills, creams, ointments, and suppositories.

The doctor may prescribe a single, oral dose of antifungal medication, such as fluconazole to control the infection.

You can prevent yeast infection using the following simple tips:

• Avoid tight-fitting, synthetic clothes and pantyhose
• Use cotton panties
• Keep the vaginal area dry after a shower
• Change wet clothes as soon as possible
• Avoid using sprays, scented sanitary pads, or tampons
• Maintain a good glycemic control