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Saturday, 31 of July of 2010

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Yeast Infections

A vaginal yeast infection is a common fungal infection caused by overgrowth of Candida, naturally occurring yeast. Yeast are normally found in a woman’s vagina in small numbers, but sometimes they can multiply and change the normal balance of bacterial growth. When the fungi begin to grow in excess, they may develop into candidiasis. These are the most likely fungi to cause yeast infections as well as infections in other moist areas of the body, such as the mouth (thrush), skin folds, and beneath the fingernails.

yeast infection advice

Some of the risk factors for getting a yeast infection are :

  • Birth control pills
  • Menstruation
  • Use of antibiotics and certain other prescription medications
  • Unprotected sexual activity
  • Mismanaged diabetes
  • A weakened immune system
  • Pregnancy
  • Poor diet

Some women may experience some or all of the following symptoms are:

  • Vaginal itching
  • Burning while urinating
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Swollen or red vulva
  • Thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese
  • Abdominal pain

Men with an infection may develop balanitis, an inflammation of the head of the penis, and may experience:

  • Painful swelling on the tip of the penis
  • Itching
  • Red dots on the tip of the penis
  • Dry peeling skin
  • Burning during urination

Yeast infections are not a sexually transmitted infection.   In fact, it is considered a normal occurrence in a woman’s body.  You should in fact  practice safe sex by using a condom so your partner will not get infected while you are seeking treatment.

You should also  see a health care professional as soon as these symptoms become apparent. Since your urethra and anus are so  close  , together a person can easily mistaken symptoms of a bladder infection because of possible cross contamination  and wrongly self diagnose the problem.
Some prevention methods for a yeast infection:

A well-balanced diet with plenty of fibre and  pro- biotics from yogurt and acidophilus  can be the best preventative medicine.
Women can also take hygienic precautions to decrease the likelihood of developing an infection by doing the following:

  • Keep your genitals clean and dry, and rinse well after using soap.
  • Avoid vaginal douching after sex, this can over drying and you can   lose your natural flora that aids in the fight of infections.
  • Avoid vaginal deodorants and perfume products such as soaps that can irritate the vagina. That goes for the guys aswell!
  • Wear underwear made of cotton instead of synthetic fabrics.
  • Avoid wearing wet clothing for long periods or time, .
  • Do not have vaginal and anal intercourse at the same time.  Use a condom for one or the other or wash very well in between to avoid cross contamination.
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