Vaginal yeast infections, also called "candida vaginal infections," typically are caused by the candida albicans fungus. During a lifetime, 75 percent of all women are likely to have at least one vaginal candida infection, and up to 45 percent have two or more. Women tend to be more susceptible to vaginal yeast infections if their bodies are under stress from poor diet, lack of sleep, illness, or when they are pregnant or taking antibiotics. Women with immune-suppressing diseases such as diabetes and hiv infection also are at increased risk.
The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:
· vaginal itch and/or soreness
· thick, white, cheeselike discharge
· "burning" discomfort around the vaginal opening, especially if urine contacts the area
· pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Vaginal yeast infections can be treated with antifungal medicines that are inserted directly into the vagina as tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories
