Yeast Infection

A yeast infection is a common infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast that is normally found in the vagina.

Some things that make yeast infections more likely to occur:

• Taking antibiotics or other drugs
• Being run down or sick
• Using perfumed soaps or sprays, scented tampons or pads, bubble baths, or douching
• Changes in hormone levels (pregnancy, birth control, getting your period)
• Wearing panty liners every day
• Staying in wet bathing suits or damp workout wear
• Tight, non-breathing clothing
• Sex with a partner who has a yeast infection

What are the symptoms?

• Vaginal discharge that is thick, odourless, and looks like cottage cheese.
• Itching, burning, swelling, and redness of the vagina and vaginal lips (vulva).
• Pain during sex or with urination.

How is it treated?

There are several over-the-counter options that can be used to treat a yeast infection. Talk to a health care provider or pharmacist about what option is best.

Note: Never self-diagnose a yeast infection the first time. See a health care professional for testing and an assessment.

Prevention

Here are some ways to prevent yeast infections:

• Wear cotton underwear and loose fitting clothing.
• Change into dry clothes soon after swimming or working out at the gym.
• Avoid douching, scented soaps, bubble baths, scented pads or tampons and feminine sprays.
• Limit the number of sexual partners you have and use condoms.

Revised: 2014-09-24