Yeast infections are one of the most common types of vaginal infections or vaginitis that occur in women.
It is also known as vaginal thrush or vaginal candidiasis.
Approximately 75% of women will experience this in their lifetime.
What Is Yeast Infection?
Yeast is caused by a type of fungal organism known as Candida Albicans. This can be found normally in a healthy vagina.
Vaginitis usually occur when there is a change in the balance of the bacterial flora or pH of the vagina, which leads to an overgrowth of fungal organisms. This overgrowth then leads to vaginal candidiasis.
Vaginal thrush occurs when a woman starts to experience symptoms such as vaginal itching, pain, soreness or abnormal white clumpy discharge.
What are some Yeast infection symptoms?
- Vaginal itching
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- White clumpy discharge similar to “cottage cheese”
- Burning sensation or pain in the genital area
- Vaginal irritation
- Vaginitis
- Pain and soreness in the genital area, especially during sexual intercourse
- Skin redness in the genital area or vulva
- Discomfort when passing urine
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What are the common causes of Yeast infection?
It is important to understand the various causes as it can go a long way in preventing a recurrence.
Recurrence is a very common problem that can be very troubling and bothersome for those experiencing it.
Some of the common factors include:
Antibiotics
Taking antibiotics as treatment for another illness could increase the chances of vaginitis. This is because it can kill off the good bacteria in the vagina, hence disrupting the bacterial balance which causes an overgrowth of thrush.
Sexual Intercourse
This is know to be an extremely common trigger as it disrupts the vaginal pH.
Hormonal Changes including pregnancy
Major hormonal changes will most definitely lead to a disruption of the balance of the vaginal bacterial flora which predisposes you to vaginitis.
Diabetes
Diabetes is an important consideration especially in those with recurrent thrush. It may be the only presenting symptom of undiagnosed diabetes. This is due to a weakened immune system that causes the overgrowth of thrush.
Use of Vaginal Wash and Douches
Contrary to popular belief that we need to use vaginal washes for hygiene purpose, the use of vaginal wash and douches are in fact a major culprit. This is because over-washing as well as the soap and chemicals present in these products actually cause significant disruption to the natural bacterial balance and pH which leads to significant skin and vaginal irritation.
Tight pants or underwear
The use of tight clothing prevents ventilation around the vaginal region especially with the humid weather in Singapore. The humidity and moisture can also lead to vaginitis and skin irritation.
How Do You Test for Yeast Infection?
Diagnosis is made and confirmed with a vaginal swab test.
Your doctor will usually perform a thorough vaginal examination and perform the swab test during the consultation.
This swab test is usually quick and painless when done by an experienced practitioner.
It is not advisable to buy over the counter medications or purchase medicine online without getting examined by a doctor in person.
The symptoms of vaginal yeast infection is commonly confused with other infections such as Bacterial Vaginosis which is caused by a bacteria, or other more serious conditions such as sexually transmitted diseases.
Hence, it is important to always consult a doctor and get a proper vaginal examination should you experience any abnormal vaginal symptoms.
This is to avoid any delay in diagnosis or wrong treatments prescribed.
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Treatments
Simple Infections
Simple infections can be cured with medicine such as anti-fungal medication. These medicine come in the form of creams, vaginal pessaries or oral tablets.
The duration of the treatment will depend on the severity and the individual condition of the patient.
Special attention needs to be paid to patients who are pregnant or who have a weakened immune system. Pregnant women in particular need to see a doctor early and receive treatment in a timely manner.
We will tailor the treatment according to the individual woman’s needs, if symptoms persist.
Severe Yeast Infection
This usually encompass infections that are prolonged, severe in symptoms or recurrent in nature.
A severe infection, particularly those that are recurrent in nature, will require a more specialized and experienced doctor to tailor a treatment plan to reduce and treat the frequency of recurrences.
This will usually require a longer duration of treatment for a few weeks to months, and will require monitoring of side effects through blood tests.
Proper treatment can go a long way in preventing serious issues or recurrence.
Prevention of Yeast Infection
Recurrence is an extremely common problem that is troubling for many, and oftentimes it is because of their feminine hygiene habits that contribute to this.
It is important to understand that it is caused by the disruption of the balance and natural pH of the vaginal flora (good bacteria), which leads to the overgrowth of candida.
This is caused by factors such as – over washing the vagina with soaps, vaginal douching, moist environment with tight clothing, sexual intercourse which causes irritation to the vagina.
They are in fact, not caused by poor hygiene or by the use of a dirty toilet bowl.
Here are some important tips for prevention:
- Avoid soaps around the vagina, wash with water only
- Avoid vaginal douches and wash
- Avoid deodorants or perfumed products around the vagina
- Avoid tight clothing or underwear
- Change your pad or tampon regularly
- Avoid wearing pantyliners when not on your period
- Wash yourself before and after sexual intercourse
- Stick to a regular partner and have protected sexual intercourse with a condom
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AUTHOR
Dr Michelle Chia
Medical Director
After graduating from the National University of Singapore, Dr Michelle's journey allowed her to train in Women's Health and Aesthetic Medicine. Her experience has led her to be featured on multiple media platforms including Radio Stations and prominent Magazines like Her World, Women's Weekly and CLEO. Her work has also received recognition both locally and internationally in several Medical Conferences.
Ezra Clinic is a Women’s Health, Wellness and Aesthetic Clinic that is conveniently located at the top floor of Royal Square Medical Suites in Novena, Singapore’s Medical Health Hub.
Helmed by Dr Michelle Chia, Ezra Clinic is your chosen one stop clinic for all your Women’s Health and Wellness needs.
Address
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-09, Royal Square Medical Centre, Singapore 329565