A vaginal yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva. Vaginal yeast infection affects up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their lifetimes with many women experiencing at least two episodes. Although this kind of infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection there is an increased risk of vaginal yeast infection at the time of first regular sexual activity.

Research evidence shows that that the yeast infections may be linked to mouth to genital contact or oral-genital sex. Medications are effective in treating vaginal yeast infections. A recurrent yeast infections or four or more within a year may require a longer treatment course and a maintenance plan.

The most common symptoms of vaginal candidiasis  include itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva, a burning sensation, especially during intercourse or while urinating, redness and swelling of the vulva, vaginal pain and soreness, vaginal rash, and odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance. The fungus candida albicans is responsible for most vaginal yeast infections.

The vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast, including candida, and bacteria. Lactobacillus prevents an overgrowth of yeast. An overgrowth of candida or penetration of the fungus into deeper vaginal cell layers causes the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection. An overgrowth of yeast can result from antibiotic use, which causes an imbalance in natural vaginal flora, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, an impaired immune system, and taking oral contraceptives that increase estrogen levels.

The factors that increase risk of developing a yeast infection antibiotics intake, increased estrogen levels, poorly controlled blood sugar, and lowered immunity from corticosteroid therapy or HIV infection. To reduce the risk of vaginal yeast infections, wear underwear that has a cotton crotch and doesn’t fit too tightly. Harvard