More than 75 percent of women across the world experience vaginal yeast infection at one
or the other point in their life. Many of them suffer from recurrent infections that disrupt
their confidence, comfort and so much more. The right way to prevent as well as deal with
problems is by creating awareness regarding the same. This article provides you with all the
basic details regarding yeast infection.

WHAT IS VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION? WHAT CAUSES YEAST INFECTION IN FEMALES?
Vaginal yeast infection is a kind of fungal infection that compromises the well-being and
health of vagina as well as the vulva. The other name for the problem is Candidiasis.
Microorganisms are always present on our body. infections like these result from the Rapid
growth of the microorganisms on the skin. In mild to moderate cases, the infection is cured
within a time span of 10-14 days. Hower, in severe cases, the period of recovery may
increase.
HOW DOES YEAST INFECTION DEVELOP IN FEMALE BODY?

There is always a healthy balance of both bacteria and yeast in the vagina. The one and only
‘estrogen a female body hormone, helps a bacteria called lactobacilli to fight harmful
microorganisms in the vagina. This helps in maintaining the overall health of the female
reproductive system.
If for some reason, the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina is altered, for example,
due to change in the levels of estrogen or etc., a fungus called candida develops. This causes
yeast infection in and around the vagina.
Hormones are  the only factor that can give rise to yeast infection in the body, it is just
one of the many:
1. Unhygienic sexual intercourse
2. Uncontrolled diabetes
3. Use of vaginal sprays
4. Consumption of antibiotics
5. Use of douches
6. Lack of personal hygiene
7. Weak immunity system

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF YEAST INFECTION?
As a female suffering from vaginal yeast infection, you may experience a variety of
symptoms. They as well as their intensity vary from person to person depending upon the
severity of the infection. In the case of this particular fungal infection symptoms are mostly
limited to the female reproductive system. They are as follows:
1. Unbearable itching in the private parts
2. Redness
3. Burning sensation during urination
4. Swelling of the vulva
5. Rashes
6. Soreness
7. Watery vaginal discharge
8. Pain during sex
9. Thick and odor free vaginal discharge
HOME REMEDIES FOR THE INFECTION
May sound a little skeptical, but home remedies have been proven useful in the treatment
of the infection. These work marvously in mild to moderate cases of vaginal yeast infection.
These home remedies mostly involve commoningredietns and items found in the
household.
1. Massaging of coconut oil in the affected region
2. Eating and applying Greek yogurt
3. Applying diluted tea tree oil on the affected area
4. Consuming Vitamin C – rich diet
5. Taking an apple cider vinegar bath
6. Consume garlic in meals
7. Applying diluted hydrogen peroxide
MEDICAL TREATMENT OF YEAST INFECTION
Medical treatment becomes a must if the infection gets severe. In such a situation, relying
on home remedies is not sufficient for relieving the symptoms of yeast infection.

The diagnosis for the problem is very easy. It involves enquiry about the current health
conditions, some other personal details etc. It is followed by a physical examination of the
external region. Then comes pelvic examination. Just like any other fungal infection
treatment for vaginal yeast infection is also dependent on the diagnosis.
1. For mild to moderate yeast infections, a three day medicine regimen is what is
mostly suggested by doctors. The medicine may include ointments, tablets, capsules.
Miconazole, butoconazole are few of the common medicines.
2. For severe cases of yeast infections, long treatments are suggested. They generally
continue upto 2 weeks. The may involve application of ointments, oral medicines
(tablets) or suppository. THe doctor may also prescribe fluconazole for long-term.
The dosage may vary depending on the various criterias.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Is vaginal yeast infection a sexually transmitted disease?
No! Vaginal yeast infection is not considered to be an STD. It may, however, spread
through sexual interncourse. This does not mean that women who aren't sexually
active cannot suffer from this infection.
2. Are intimate washes helpful in curing yeast infection?
They cannot cure yeast infection. However, they can help in maintaining hygiene,
which is an important criterion for preventing further aggravation of the infection.
3. What is the color of vaginal discharge in a female suffering from yeast infection?
In severe yeast infections, the color of vaginal discharge may change from being
white to whitish-grey. Moreover, the discharge becomes thicker and clumpy.
4. What can be the reason for recurring yeast infection?
If you are sexually active, maybe it’s your partner who is the source of infection. If
you are not, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis of the problem.
CONCLUCION
Yeast infection is a common problem in women. While it may not be fatal, it can disrupt the
smooth functioning of life, which is why one should opt for the right treatment to get rid of
it as soon as possible. Also, yeast infections in and around vagina can be a reason for
hyperpigmentation in the region, which can create self-complexity. While it is still not that
big of an issue, it is still better to prevent it if one can. Therefore, one must adopt such
lifestyle practices that can potentially eliminate the cause of vaginal yeast infection.