The vast majority of women will experience at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lives. It's important for women to educate themselves about what causes a yeast infection in order to lessen the likelihood of a recurrence.
A small amount of yeast is normally present in the vagina. A yeast infection occurs when the yeast multiplies, causing itching and burning in the genital region.
What Causes a Yeast Infection?
Many women don't realize that taking antibiotics can cause a yeast infection. The reason why antibiotics can cause an infection is quite simple: when someone is taking an antibiotic to treat a condition in another part of the body, the antibiotic kills the unwanted bacteria. Unfortunately, it can also kill “good” bacteria that are present in the vagina. This leads to an upset in the natural balance and creates an environment in which the yeast can multiply, triggering a yeast infection.
Yeast thrives in a moist environment. To avoid a yeast infection, wear loose-fitting clothing. Wear cotton underwear as nylon retains moisture, which allows yeast to flourish. Avoid wearing pantyhose if at all possible. If you enjoy swimming, don't sit around in a wet bathing suit for any length of time afterward.
Certain perfumes and dyes can also cause a yeast infection. Some women find that using certain laundry detergents or fabric softeners can cause an infection to occur. Similarly, bath oils and bubble bath should be avoided. Some brands of toilet paper can also set an infection. In order to avoid getting a yeast infection, scented sanitary napkins and tampons should be avoided as well.
The use of condoms can also cause yeast infections. Those brands that are lubricated with a spermicide called Nonoxynol-9 have been linked to infections. If a person suspects this to be the case, switch to a non-lubricated condom and use either a separate spermicide or a back-up (barrier) method of contraception. Another way in which condoms have been linked to yeast infections is in the case of a person who has an allergy to latex. In this situation, a non-latex condom can be used.
There are a number of things that can cause a yeast infection. It's important to be aware of them if at all possible. In the case of an antibiotic, take it when necessary, and then treat the yeast infection, in the event that one occurs.
