Yeast Infections Frequently Asked Questions
The bacteria normally found in the vagina usually keep this from occurring, but when changes brought about by pregnancy, menstruation, diabetes, or antibiotics occur, too many yeast cells may grow in the vagina. This can cause itching and irritation in the vagina. Approximately 75% of all women will experience at least one yeast infection during their lifetime.
You may want to see your health care provider to make sure what you have is a yeast infection. If you are experiencing frequent recurrences, you should also see your physician. This is to make sure that a yeast infection is truly the cause.
There is also a medication that comes in a pill form, but you must have a prescription from a physician to get it. The medication Diflucan (fluconazole), given at a dose of 150mg one time will provide relief of vaginal yeast infections in 2-3 days. All treatments, whether in pill or cream form, appear to be equally effective. However, creams can provide relief for vaginal itching and irritation. Chronic (reoccurring) infections may require more long-term treatment (up to 6 months). Diabetes should be ruled out in women with frequent yeast infections.
What puts me at risk for yeast infections and how can I prevent them?
Several factors are linked to increased rates of yeast infections in women, including pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, and the use of birth control pills or antibiotics. After a course of antibiotics it may take weeks for the vagina to grow back the population of bacteria necessary to keep yeast under control. Other factors that may put you at risk include the use of douches, perfumed feminine hygiene sprays, and tight, poorly ventilated clothing and underwear. So far, there is little scientific evidence to show that a change in diet can impact the treatment of recurrent infections, although diets high in sugar may promote yeast growth and one study demonstrated that daily consumption of yogurt helped reduce recurrence of yeast overgrowth.
Can it be transmitted through sexual contact?
There is no direct evidence that yeast infections can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. However, it is possible that some women may have repeat infections because her partner carries the organism on his penis/in her vagina. It isn’t necessary for your partner to be treated for a yeast infection just because you have one, unless your partner is also experiencing symptoms.
What if I have a yeast infection and I am pregnant?
It is safe for you to treat a yeast infection with the topical antifungal medications discussed above, but not Diflucan. However, as is true with most drugs, the effect of antifungals on pregnancy has not been studied in detail. Most OB/Gyn’s recommend treatment for symptomatic infections. Yeast infections pose no threat to the fetus or newborn.
For more information:
Go to the Pregnancy health topic.