By Dr. Ameya S Kanakiya, Gynaecology,

A vaginal yeast infection is characterized by itching, irritation and discharge from the vagina. This disorder is not transmitted sexually; however, can be transmitted by oral sex. There are medications which can treat the disorder effectively. If the disorder is recurrent, then the treatment course may be longer than usual.

Symptoms-

The symptoms of vaginal yeast infection are:

1. You may experience a burning sensation in the vagina during sexual intercourse.
2. Intense itching and irritation at the opening of the vagina.
3. Curdy white discharge
4. Pain in the vagina.

Causes-

Vaginal yeast infection is usually caused by a fungus called Candida Albicans. It is a part of the normal vaginal flora. Any disruption in the bacteria in this normal flora causes an overgrowth of the fungus and leads to a vaginal fungal infection. The fungus can be transferred to and fro between men and women during sex. But since it is a part of the normal flora and not introduced specifically by sexual contact, candidiasis is not considered as a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Disruption of the normal vaginal flora is caused due to a pH change and occurs in conditions like diabetes, pregnancy, prolonged usage of antibiotics, birth control pills, weak immune defense etc.

Treatment-

The treatments for this disorder involve the following methods:

1. Single Dose Oral Medication: You may be prescribed a single dose of anti-fungal medication to combat the symptoms of a yeast infection.
2. Vaginal Therapy: You may have to undergo a short therapy of the vagina consisting of anti- fungal ointments and tablets.

Prevention-

There are certain preventive measures that you can adopt to reduce the possibilities of developing a yeast infection. Wear cotton clothes and avoid wearing tight fitting undergarments. Don’t stay in your wet clothes for long hours as that may do much harm.