5 Causes A Vaginal Yeast Infection

Three out of every four women will have at least one vaginal infection caused by yeast overgrowth at some point in their lives, and half of all women will have more than one. A yeast infection is caused by several different fungi that normally grow in the body. (Yeast is a kind of fungus). A change in the chemical balance in the vagina allows the fungus to grow too rapidly and cause symptoms. Yeast infections can also occur in the mouth, a condition called oral candidiasis or thrush. This is most common in infants and babies. Oral thrush often comes with thick white patches in the mouth, usually on the tongue and sides of the cheeks. These white patches may look like milk curds, but usually cant be wiped away. Oral candidiasis can be painful and make it difficult to eat.

All of the reasons why yeast infections occur are not yet understood. What is known is that conditions that usually control fungus can change, allowing the fungus to grow rapidly. Some factors that might cause yeast infections include:

1. The vaginal conditions in pregnancy and diabetes offer favorable ground for fungal growth, and also lower the glycogen store in certain vaginal cells. Vaginal pH and sugar content also increase. Such factors increase the risk of yeast infection in women.

2. Pregnancy: Women who are pregnant are more likely to develop yeast infections, secondary to the hormonal changes seen with pregnancy.

3. Since using antibiotics destroys the 'good' bacteria in vagina that stand guard against Candidal organisms, the risk of yeast infection increases. Moreover, birth control pills cause some changes in vaginal environment that give rise to conditions favoring fungus growth.

4. Use of contraceptive devices: Certain contraceptives including vaginal sponges, intrauterine devices and diaphragms can irritate the lining of the vagina and contribute to yeast infections.

5. Vaginal infections can also be caused by bacterial vaginosis, the most common cause of vaginitis in women of childbearing age, and trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection. BV and trichomoniasis are associated with more serious reproductive health concerns, such as premature birth and increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. Because these infections can have symptoms similar to those of yeast infections, yet can have more serious reproductive effects, it's important to see a health care professional to evaluate and diagnose any vaginal symptoms.