Throw Out Those Pantyhose and Say Goodbye to Yeast Infection

Yeast Infections, while common, with 80% of all women reporting at least one in their lifetime, are uncomfortable and often painful to experience. They can also be caused by a number of different factors, some as simple as wearing pantyhose or using scented toilet paper. By taking practical actions, most yeast infections can be prevented. Yeast infections are caused by candida albicans which is a yeast fungus naturally occurring within the body. It's when the body experiences an imbalance of that the yeast can grow at a much faster rate than normal, causing the infection. Symptoms of an infection include a white vaginal discharge, pain, itching or burning in the vaginal area, redness or inflammation of the vulva, and pain during urination or sexual intercourse. Yeast infections are caused by many things including pregnancy, the use of antibiotics, birth control pills and steroids, diabetes, or a change in the immune system such as an HIV infection or certain cancer treatments. A very common, easily preventable cause is as simple as the clothing a woman wears. Anything can causes undue moisture or irritation can encourage yeast to grow. For that reason, wearing tight-fitting pants or undergarments, especially pantyhose, can also cause a yeast infection. Women should try to wear cotton panties and should change out of damp or tight clothes as soon as possible. Women should also refrain from douching or using scented sprays, tampons, toilet tissues and sanitary napkins, as these products can alter the chemical balance and cause an infection. A yeast infection is not a sexually transmitted disease, but they can be transmitted sexually. Therefore, it's best to wait until after treatment and until all symptoms have subsided to have sexual intercourse. It is also important to make sure that during sexual contact, no bacteria from the anus is transferred to the vaginal area as this bacteria can also cause infections. Depending on a woman's lifestyle or natural chemical makeup, she may be more prone to yeast infections than others. Some women find they are plagued by frequent, reoccurring yeast infections, or are on medication that seems to make them vulnerable to infection. Yeast infections are usually not serious, unless they spread to other parts of the body, but they can be very painful and debilitating. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat a yeast infection, ranging from creams that can be inserted into the vagina with an applicator, suppositories that dissolve inside the vagina on their own, and pills that can be taken orally. Some recommend using natural remedies, including garlic and plain yogurt to remove the unwanted yeast. Over-the-counter supplements can also be taken to assist with and prevent yeast infections. By making subtle yet wise choices regarding intake, clothing and hygiene, the pain and embarrassment of yeast infections can be greatly reduced.