by Renee Brokaw

Created on: June 07, 2008   Last Updated: June 09, 2008

Candidiasis is a vaginal yeast infection caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. Many healthy women have small amounts of yeast organisms that live in and outside of their vagina. Under normal conditions, the acidic environment these organisms exist in stops their growth. However, when the environment they live in becomes less acidic, yeast organisms multiply and cause a yeast infection.

What Causes a Yeast Infection?

There are a few factors linked to what might cause a yeast infection and individuals who are more at risk of contracting a yeast infection.

Douching is a cause that can be controlled. Women may douche to make sure the area is clean, but according to Dr. Melissa Conrad Stopler, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and most doctors recommend that women avoid douching unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. Stoppler said the body has a natural way of cleansing the vaginal canal by itself. Douching is not believed to have any health benefits and may actually worsen vaginal symptoms
The use of antibiotics, which alter the balance in the organisms surrounding the vagina and kill the protective bacteria
People who suffer from lupus, HIV or AIDS are susceptible to yeast infections because they have compromised immune systems. Sufferers are more susceptible
Women experiencing hormonal changes during menstruation
Women who take birth control pills
People who take Steroids
People suffering from Diabetes

How will I know if I have one?

The good news is that yeast infections are very treatable, but they can be irritating and uncomfortable. You'll know you have one if you experience:

Itching and irritation around your vagina
Vaginal discharge that looks like Cottage Cheese
Pain during intercourse
Redness and swelling of the vulva (the skin that surrounds your vagina)
Painful urination

What is the treatment?

You should contact your health care provider to make a diagnosis. If you are suffering from a yeast infection, there are several over-the-counter treatments available. There are vaginal suppository creams, or applicators you use to inject the cream into your vagina. These creams contain miconazole, an anti-fungal agent. In addition to creams, Fluconazole or Cipro are oral medications in liquid or pill form available to treat candidiasis.

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