Women's Health Articles

It is commonly believed that yeast infections are exclusive to women. This, however, is a gross misconception. Yeast infections can occur in both men and women.

A yeast infection is a very common type of infection; nearly seventy-five percent of all women get a yeast infection at least once in their lives, and at least half of all women have had multiple infections. The fungus that causes yeast infection is present in everybody, and its growth is being regulated by bacteria that are also naturally present in the body. A slight disruption in this balance can cause the yeast to rapidly grow unregulated, which ultimately is the cause of the infection.

There are many contributing factors that may cause the disruption of the bacterial balance in the genital area. Overusing antibiotics is a common cause of yeast infections; the antibiotics will not only kill the bad bacteria, but it will also kill the good bacteria that regulate the yeast in your body. Killing these good bacteria will allow the yeast to grow unregulated, causing an infection. Change in hormone levels can also contribute to the formation of a yeast infection by changing the pH balance of the vaginal area. If the genital area becomes too acidic the bacterial balance could be disrupted.

Symptoms of this infection include itching and a burning sensation in the genital area, a white discharge that looks like cottage cheese, pain during intercourse, and swelling of the vulva.

Yeast infections are usually treated with antifungal medications. If you are suffering from your first yeast infection, it would be a good idea to see your doctor. It is important to have a proper diagnosis before beginning an antifungal treatment. Taking antifungal mediation when unnecessary can cause the yeast to develop a resistance to the medication. So it is important to only take medicine when suffering from a yeast infection.