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