Yeast infections in women also called vaginal infections or yeast vaginitis or vaginal candidiasis commonly occur in women even in celibate women. Hence the purpose of this article is to educate us on the symtoms, causes and suggest a proven method for treatment.

The most common symptoms are:
€ Itching,irritation and swelling of the vagina and the vulva
€ Soreness of the vulva
€ Thick nearly white vaginal discharge with a bad smell
€ Vagina rash
€ Pain during intercourse and urination

They also occur mainly in women who are menstruating. They are less common in postmenopausal women who do not take estrogen and they are rare in girls who have not yet started menstruating. The following however have similar symptoms to that of the infection:
€ bacterial vaginosis (a bacterial infection of the vagina)
€ trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection)
€ dermatitis (irritated skin)

CAUSES:
The main causative organism of the infection is Candida albicans normally found in the gastrointestinal tract and sometimes the vagina. Normally, Candida causes no symptoms.
However, when there are changes in the normal flora of the gastrointestinal tract and vagina (caused by medicines, injury, or stress to the immune system), Candida can overgrow and cause the symptoms described above. Also a healthy vagina has bacteria and a small amount of yeast cells. The bacteria lactobacillus acidophilus helps to keep organisms like yeast in check.

LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTORS
A variety of factors may contribute to the development of a vaginal infection. For example, wearing tight or underwear made from a synthetic fabric that doesn't let the area €breathe€ encourages yeast overgrowth.
Using over-the-counter feminine hygiene products, such as douches, scented sprays, and even bubble bath, may cause the acidity level in the vagina to drop, resulting in a the infection.
Being overweight can also contribute to the infections, both in the vagina and in the folds of the genital area; so can eating a diet high in sugar.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS THAT CAUSE VAGINAL THE INFECTIONS
Many women get their first infection when they are pregnant or are on birth control pills. Some women get vaginal infections from yeast overgrowth when they have their periods. This may be because hormonal changes contribute to changes in the vagina's acid balance.
If you have diabetes, you may also find that you experience frequent infections. This is especially likely to happen when your blood sugar is not well controlled. Illnesses that lower your immunity, like HIV/AIDS, can also lead to infections.

CAUSES DUE TO MEDICATION
Some antibiotics are known to encourage yeast overgrowth by making the vaginal environment less acidic. This may be because they kill off normal genital bacteria, making it easier for yeast to thrive.
Steroids are another type of medication that can cause women to develop a vaginal infection from yeast. The higher the dose and the longer you use them, the greater the risk, but even low-strength topical steroid creams may make the infections more likely.
The good news about the infections is that they are usually quite treatable with over-the-counter medication. If you think you have a vaginal infection, speak with your doctor.