Talk True is a limited Zikoko medical myth-busting series. With each episode, we’ll talk to medical professionals about commonly misunderstood health issues to get actual facts.
We’ve heard so many things, both true and false, about vaginal yeast infections. So, we decided to sit with a doctor to get the lowdown on what’s really going on with vaginal yeast infections
What is a vaginal yeast infection?
A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection that occurs when the natural pH of the vagina is disrupted. Think of it this way: our bodies naturally contain a type of yeast called Candida. When the amount of Candida in the vagina is balanced, everything is fine. But certain factors can cause the yeast to multiply rapidly, leading to an infection.
How can one know she has a vaginal yeast infection?
Well, some of the symptoms include: itchiness in your vagina, redness and swelling of your vulva, an unpleasant or foul odour coming from your vulva, creamy discharge with the consistency of cottage cheese, a burning sensation when you pee, and some people report pain during sex.
Although some of these symptoms may resemble those of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), a vaginal yeast infection is not an (STI) or disease. One major difference is the thick, cottage cheese-like discharge, which is more characteristic of a yeast infection
In fact, you can get a yeast infection even if you’ve never had sex in your life.
But can it be cured?
Yes, it can. Vaginal yeast infections are treatable with anti-fungal medication prescribed by your doctor. Treatment options include oral medication, suppositories which you insert into your vagina or creams you apply. With consistent use, the infection typically clears up within a week. It is also best to abstain from sex during this period as sex can cause further irritation to your vagina.
A lot of people think antibiotics can cure a yeast infection, but it’s the opposite. Overusing antibiotics can lead to a yeast infection because they kill off the good bacteria that help your body reduce the multiplication of Candida.
What increases my risk of getting a yeast infection?
Several factors can contribute to you getting a yeast infection, and these include
1) Wearing wet or dirty underwear
2) Using lubricants that are not water based
3) Changes in hormones during pregnancy, your menstrual cycle, or while on birth control
4) Unmanaged diabetes
5) Douching
With all these causes, why don’t more women have or talk about vaginal yeast infections?
Actually, it is more common than you think. About 75% of women will have a vaginal yeast infection at some point in their lives. This means, if you have a group of four women in a room, chances are that at least three of them have had a vaginal yeast infection.
Before we leave, do you have any fun facts for us?
Here’s one: If you have a yeast infection and your sexual partner is a woman, you can pass it on to her. If you didn’t know, now you do!
