Most women know the tell-tale signs: that persistent itch, irritation, and sometimes a cottage cheese-like discharge – classic symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection. Yeast infections are extremely common; about 3 out of 4 women will experience at least one in their lifetime. Though they’re not usually serious, they can be very uncomfortable and inconvenient. The good news is that yeast infections are generally easy to treat once you recognize what you’re dealing with. In this article, we’ll discuss how to identify a yeast infection (and not confuse it with other issues), effective treatments – including medications and home care – and ways to prevent those pesky infections from coming back. Is It Really a Yeast Infection? The vagina has a delicate balance of flora, including the yeast, Candida. A yeast infection happens when something upsets that balance (like antibiotics, hormonal changes, or diabetes) and yeast overgrows, leading to irritation. However, other infe...

  If you’ve ever experienced a yeast infection, you know just how uncomfortable it can be. The itching, irritation, and discomfort can interfere with your daily life - and for some, these infections can become a recurring issue. But the good news is you don’t have to live in an endless cycle of yeast infections. This article will help you understand what causes these infections, why they come back, and what you can do to prevent and manage them - with comfort and confidence. What Is a Yeast Infection? A yeast infection, or candidiasis , is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida , most often Candida albicans . While this yeast lives naturally in the body (in the vagina, gut, and mouth), an imbalance in the environment allows it to multiply and cause symptoms . Common symptoms of vaginal yeast infections include: Itching and irritation in the vaginal area Thick, white vaginal discharge (often described as “cottage cheese-like”) Burning du...