Top Causes Of Yeast Infection And Three Easy Cures

Yeast, known as Candida albicans, can overgrow, causing aninfection, and it occurs when the acidic environment of the vagina or surrounding skin becomes less acidic, which allows a yeast infection to begin growing. This is the cause of yeast development.

Assuming that you have a yeast growth and treating it with over the counter medications may not be a good idea; it is best to allow a professional to diagnose the infection and determine the cause so he or she can offer treatment options.

If you have any of the following symptoms, you should see a gynecologist:
- itching,
- burning, and/or swelling of the vaginal area;
- thick and/or discolored discharge;
- pain during sexual intercourse.

But what is the actual cause of yeast development?

Most women develop at least one yeast infection at some point in life. In fact, any thing that causes the vaginal area to remain too moist is actually a cause for this medical condition. Also, some medications, especially antibiotics, can alter the acid levels of the vaginal area and aid in the growth of too much yeast, which is another cause of yeast growth.

Other factors that can change the level of acid and are considered a cause of yeast infection are pregnancy, birth control pills, steroids, diabetes, and even menstruation. Also, another cause of yeast growth is from wearing too-tight clothing.

If you work out often, you should change out of damp clothes as soon as possible. This means gym clothes, swimsuits, et cetera, as wet or damp environments are a well known cause of yeast growth and development. Wearing breathable cotton undergarments and natural fabric clothing allows the passage of air to help keep the yeast from overgrowing. Also, avoid pantyhose or tights as much as possible as these restrictive garments are a cause of yeast growth.

In addition, avoid introducing bacteria to the vagina, which can cause the acid levels to decrease and is a cause of yeast condition. Use proper hygienic rules, such as wiping from front to back when using the toilet, and drying properly after bathing. Keeping these tips in mind will help to eliminate the growth and development of yeast on the body.

If an infection does develop, you will probably be treated with a cream or suppository that is applied or inserted into the vagina. There are new pill form medications that are available by prescription.

In addition, in order to treat the symptoms of the yeast infection, anti-itch creams may be recommended for use. Again, it is very important that a doctor examine the possible cause of yeast growth to rule out other causes of the symptoms, since other conditions have similar symptoms.

Remember, too, that it is possibly to pass a yeast infection to a sexual partner. This is another possible cause of yeast development; if you passed it to a partner, he can pass it back to you. You may also be the cause of yeast growth in your partner, as men can and do develop infections as well.