Vaginal yeast infection: Doctor explains causes, symptoms, & treatment | Stanford
Stanford Center for Health Education・3 minutes read
Vaginal yeast infections are common, affecting 75% of women, and are caused by Candida albicans thriving in warm, humid conditions. Symptoms include white discharge, itching, and redness, with risk factors such as antibiotic use and weakened immune systems leading to recurrent infections and burning sensations.
Insights
- Candida albicans, a fungus, is the primary cause of vaginal yeast infections, thriving in warm and humid environments or when healthy vaginal bacteria decrease due to factors like antibiotic use or pregnancy.
- Common symptoms of yeast infections include increased white vaginal discharge, itching, redness, soreness, vulvar burning, and pain during intercourse, with recurrent infections potentially leading to burning as the primary symptom.
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Recent questions
What causes yeast infections?
Yeast infections are primarily caused by the fungus Candida albicans, which thrives in warm, humid environments or when the normal healthy bacteria in the vagina decrease. Risk factors include antibiotic use, pregnancy, weakened immune system, and diabetes.
What are common symptoms of yeast infections?
Common symptoms of yeast infections include increased white vaginal discharge, itching, redness, vaginal soreness, vulvar burning, and pain during intercourse. Recurrent yeast infections may lead to burning as the primary symptom.
How common are yeast infections in women?
Approximately 75% of women and individuals with vaginas will experience at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime, with almost half facing two or more infections.
What factors increase the risk of yeast infections?
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of yeast infections include antibiotic use, pregnancy, weakened immune system, and diabetes. These conditions create an environment conducive to the growth of the fungus Candida albicans.
Can yeast infections lead to recurring symptoms?
Yes, recurrent yeast infections may lead to burning as the primary symptom. It is essential to address the underlying causes and risk factors to prevent the recurrence of yeast infections and alleviate symptoms effectively.
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Summary
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Common Yeast Infections in Women
- 75% of women and individuals with vaginas will experience at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime, with almost half facing two or more infections.
- Yeast infections are caused by the fungus Candida albicans, which thrives in warm, humid conditions or when the normal healthy bacteria in the vagina decrease. Risk factors include antibiotic use, pregnancy, weakened immune system, and diabetes.
- Symptoms of yeast infections include increased white vaginal discharge, itching, redness, vaginal soreness, vulvar burning, and pain during intercourse. Recurrent yeast infections may lead to burning as the primary symptom.
