Candidiasis, popularly known as Vaginal Yeast infection is caused by an imbalance or overgrowth of bacteria and yeast cells in the Vagina. This overgrowth can occur because of pregnancy, hormones, stress, medications or a weak immune system. It’s the most common type of vaginitis (so common, that you can buy medication for it over the counter) and it affects up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their life – that’s 80% of women! Vaginal yeast infections are not sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and can affect women who are sexually active and those who aren’t. Anyone who has ever had a yeast infection can testify to how uncomfortable it is. It’s usually self-diagnosable, so here are 5 signs you might have Candidiasis, and some treatment tips!
Vaginal Itching
This is the easiest and earliest symptom to spotting a vaginal yeast infection. If you’re experiencing an uncomfortable itch around the outer areas of your vagina or your vulva, it’s a tell-tale sign that you might have a yeast infection. So be on the lookout and try not to ignore what your body is telling you.
Redness and Soreness
Another common symptom is redness and soreness on the affected area. At this stage, the infection is usually hard to ignore and you’re already googling away all your symptoms. However, swellings on your vulva is also a common symptom of bacterial infections, which are much different from a yeast infection and usually more painful. Yes, it’s possible to have both a yeast and bacteria infection at the same time.
Burning Sensation
Experiencing a burning sensation when you pee is an indicating sign of a vaginal yeast infection. These symptoms go hand in hand – An itchy sensation causes you to itch, this causes redness/soreness on your skin, which in turn gives off a burning sensation or sting when you try to pee.
Whitish Cottage-Cheese Vaginal Discharge
Normal vaginal discharge is called Leukorrhea, and research shows that most women produce about a teaspoon of discharge every day. With a Yeast infection however, this discharge is thick, with a whitish cottage cheese color, and appears like a coating around the vagina.
Read: What Your Vaginal Discharge Is Trying To Tell You About Your Health
Painful Sex
There are many reasons women experience painful sex – from endometriosis to ovarian cysts, to even the most basic things like not being lubricated enough (btw – use lube during sex. You’re not a river goddess that never runs dry). This aside, vaginal yeast infections is another reason you might be experiencing pain during sex. It’s easy math, if you’re itching, burning and sore, your vagina simply is stressed and can not endure being penetrated.
What Next?
A Mild Vaginal Yeast Infection can be treated using over the counter anti-fungal medications – creams or tablets. A common one is Fluconazole. Mild yeast infections usually clear up in 3 to 4 days, while moderate to severe infections can take up to 2 weeks. If you’re experiencing a severe infection or a recurring one, always consult with a medical expert. Vaginal yeast infections when left untreated could lead to other health issues like cracked skin, skin infections, yeast infections in other parts of your body and gastrointestinal problems. It’s very important as a woman, to always be in tune with your body.
