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Gynecology

A 2-part query about yeast infections

11/26/2007

Question:

I have a two-part question.

First, I was wondering if a yeast infection can be triggered by sexual intercourse that is much more rigorous and/or longer-lasting than the woman is accustomed to.

Second, I`d like to know if a yeast infection can be spread to another part of the body if it comes into contact with the vagina (such as, say, the hands).

Thanks!

Answer:

Any disruption in the vaginal environment (acidity, normal bacteria, etc) can lend itself to a yeast infection. Prolonged sexual activity could also lead to symptoms suggestive of a yeast infection when in fact there isn't one. Yeast can spread, but generally doesn't. The strains of yeast that infect the vagina don't generally infect the skin like the hands.

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Response by:

No longer associated Thomas A deHoop, MD
Formerly Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
Director, Medical Student Education
No longer associated
Thomas A deHoop, MD