i know that this may sound like a stupid question, but what is a yeast infection? what are some of the simtums or how do you know that you have a yeast infection?
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Candidiasis, caused by the overgrowth of a specific Candida fungi, Candida Albicans, affects millions of men, women and children of all ages.  Some researchers have even linked Candida overgrowth to other chronic health problems such as ear infections and sexual dysfunction in adults; hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder and autism in children; premenstrual syndrome in women; asthma; psoriasis; and even multiple sclerosis.\n\nCandida Albicans is a relatively harmless yeast that is normally found in the mouth, throat, intestines and genitourinary tract of most humans.  In the yeast state, Candida Albicans is simply a non-invasive, sugar-fermenting organism,  whose purpose is to destroy harmful gut flora (bacteria).  In a normal environment, Candida is controlled by a properly functioning immune system and helpful "friendly" gut flora like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bacillus laterosporus, all of which suppress undesirable bacteria and yeasts and help to maintain a balanced, healthy immune system. \n\nHowever, if the population of good bacteria is diminished by any number of causes, Candida Albicans transforms from a yeast state into fungus.  This fungus invades the body, allowing the introduction of potentially dangerous and immune-lowering substances, such as indigested dietary protein, into the bloodstream.  The immune system's response to these substances can result in numerous, chronic health maladies.\n\nSymptoms of Candidiasis range from the obvious to the ambiguous; fatigue and muscle pains, digestive and urinary tract ailments, headaches and general malaise, depression and allergies, cravings for sweets, overall feelings of bad health, irritable bowel syndrome, frequent mood swings, inability to concentrate, insomnia, kidney and bladder infections, nasal congestion and sore throat, to name a few.  With vaginal candida, a thick discharge will be present, and possibly be accompanied by painful urination, an irritated and/or itchy labia, and pain with intercourse.  \n\nSome experts even believe Candida overgrowth can cause such far-reaching systemic effects as chest pain, thyroid gland malfunction, diabetes and skin conditions.  Depending on the site of the infection, Thrush, Esophagitis, Cutaneous Candidiasis, vaginal yeast infections, and, in severe cases, Deep Candidiasis can occur.  With Deep Candidiasis infection, symptoms can range from as simple as a fever to multiple organ failure. \n\nCommon causes of Candida Albicans overgrowth include the use of broad spectrum antibiotics, which reduce the number of friendly gut flora in the intestines, that normally keeps the Candida Albicans under control; any condition in which the immune system is weakened or suppressed, such as AIDS and cancer;  hormonal imbalances, such as in pregnancy or as a result of oral contraceptive use; prolonged use of steroid hormones, acid blockers, ulcer medications, immunosuppressant or anti-inflammatory drugs; excessive stress; and improper diet. \n\nCandida is not an airborne infection.  It can, however, be transmitted from one partner to another through intercourse, deep kissing or oral sex.  Fortunately, if other person is healthy, his or her immune system will destroy the cells and prevent infection.  It is also possible for Breastfeeding mothers to transmit the infection to their infants. \n\nDiagnosis can be made through visual examination, symptom review and/or laboratory blood tests.  Once identified, Candida can be successfully treated through several measures.  Remedies include the determination and elimination of any causative factors; application of antifungal medication; lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing or avoiding alcohol consumption; removing (or at least reducing) pollution and toxins in your environment; and strengthening your immune system through the combined application of a healthy lifestyle plus proper nutrition and probiotic supplements.
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Yeast, or Candida albicans, reside naturally in warm, moist areas like the vagina. When conditions allow (such as when the body's natural pH balance is upset), yeast can begin to multiply and cause an infection. In women, symptoms include genital itching, burning, and a thick, white discharge that typically resembles cottage cheese. \n\nAlthough it is unusual for a man to contract a yeast infection from a woman through intercourse, it is possible. In an infected man, the yeast reside in the urethra, the canal through which urine passes from the body, and can cause penile itching and burning during urination. \n\nA man who gets a yeast infection from his partner can pass it back to her. So even if a woman gets successful treatment, she may soon find herself reinfected if her partner does not receive treatment as well. This is something to consider, especially if infections seem to recur often. \n\nAbstaining from sex during a yeast infection is the only sure way to prevent transmission back and forth between partners. Besides, intercourse can worsen the inflammation caused by the infection, and you may feel too sore or uncomfortable to have sex anyway. It's also recommended that you avoid performing oral sex on a partner -- male or female -- who has an infection to avoid the possibility of contracting yeast orally. \n\nAntifungal medicines, including over-the-counter topical creams and oral medications available by prescription, are used to treat yeast infections. To minimize the risk of future infections, pay special attention to genital hygiene, washing the area frequently, especially before and after sex. Wear all-cotton underwear and make sure laundry detergent is rinsed out thoroughly after washing. \n\nIf you have several yeast infections within a year, or if they don't seem to respond to over-the-counter treatments, be sure to tell your doctor, so that more serious problems or other types of infections can be ruled out.
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You probably do. A few years ago, I was sick and the doctor prescribed me some antibiotics. After I took all my antibiotics and I felt better, I soon developed a yeast infection. I went to the doctor and he told me it was because of the antibiotics
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LOL ...LOL  @   "Zoe Doll, YOU HAVE A YEAST INFECTION!!! Don't worry, it's fixable. Go to your Doc. I'm not even a girl, but I'm telling you, It's a yeast infection. "\n\n\nZoe, it's okay....it's a common problem with woman.....it is prob. just a yeast infection, you just want to be seen as soon as you can b/c they can get pretty terrible!, and if you can't be seen my a dr this weekend, use some over the counter medications to give you some temporary relief.  Hope this helps!\nYet another fabulous female problem!! ( lol j/k)
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Hi Janie, at first I too thought it was a yeast infection, since they sometimes comes before,with and after your period, but to be on the safe side of things, you should get a medical check up first.If you are sexually active, it is best that you not have sex right now.It's your health and you should do what is best for yourself, the last thing you need is to have any disease/illness.Don't take it for granted, get checked out!
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Causes of Yeast Infection\n\nLowered immunity\nPoor nutrition\nPhysical and mental stress.\nUse of some antibiotics\nBirth control pills\nMenstrual periods\nDiabetes\nPregnancy\n\nHow to Avoid Yeast Infection?\n\nWear loose cotton underwear or panties (no synthetic-fiber clothes). Don't wear panty hose, leggings, and tight jeans every day.\nDon't use deodorant sanitary pads or tampons and feminine hygiene sprays, or bubble bath, especially if you feel an infection.\nChange out of wet clothes as soon as possible. Before changing, use your blow dryer on a low to dry your genital area.\nWipe from front to back after every use of the toilet. This may prevent reaching the bacteria from rectum to your vagina.\nDo not keep your stomach empty for a long time.
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Are you speaking of thrush? If so, it is an oral yeast infection.  Check out the link I provided and see if it sounds like what you are talking about.
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That is normal discharge that happens before you get your period. Although, all women are different. It is completely normal. The only thing you need to worry about is if it has a foul odor to it, then you could possibly have a yeast infection. No worries about it though. Perfectly normal...if you are still unsure call your doctor.
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if it itches a lot it is more than likely a yeast infection.  But, if you are sexually active it could also be an STD.  if you are unsure,  it wouldn't hurt to go to the doctor to get checked
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You may have a yeast infection.  I would advise going to the doctor.
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the yeast infection is itching real bad and alot of secreation with it yellowish color go to your doctor as soon as you can i heard if its real bad it cause you to be sterile so rush girl.
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How about a yeast infection? This may not be the only problem you have. It would be a prudent choice to go to your clinic and have a gyno get a swab to culture and accurately diagnose your affliction. If it's itchy and burning there is a good chance that you do have one. You can buy over the counter remedies like Clotrimazole for this. Some take 1 day, some take three days, some take 7. You can boost your immune system by eating yogurt. This prevents the bacteria candida albicans (bacteria that causes yeast infection) from multipying in your mucous membranes. It is also important to wipe front to back. The bacteria from feces can contaminate your vagina if you go the other way. That is one of the most common causes of yeast infection.
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The discharge is from the BV.  You have whats called a dual infection.  The yeast and BV.  Itrs common, especially in the warm months.  It hurt so bad because your cervix and vaginal walls are extremely tender from the infection not to mention that a pelvic exam is never a walk in the park, infection or not.  You probably didnt notice the discharge before because of the yeast med that you were using.  Just make sure that you finish the meds and you will be just fine.
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Candidiasis is an infection caused by a group of microscopic fungi or yeast. There are more than 20 species of Candida, the most common being Candida albicans. These fungi live on all surfaces of our bodies. Under certain conditions, they can become so numerous they cause infections, particularly in warm and moist areas. Examples of such infections are vaginal yeast infections, thrush, skin and diaper rash, and nailbed infections. \n\nMost candidal infections can be treated at home with over-the-counter or prescription medication and can clear within a week. But if some other disease has weakened your immune system, consult your doctor for any new symptoms before attempting self-treatment. You may risk getting an infection. \n\nYeast infections \n\nMost women can treat yeast infections at home with over-the-counter medications: \n\nMiconazole (Monistat-Derm, Monistat Vaginal)
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If your uncertain it is yeast- you should go see your MD.  \nA yeast infection isn't a big deal- compared to some things it could be.
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you need to see a doctor.... a number of things could be wrong.  something as simple as a yeast infection or something more serious.
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I'm a pharmacist, so I'll try to answer your question to the best of my knowledge.\nWhat are your other symptoms?  Usually there is discharge with a yeast infection.  It would be cottage-cheese-like (gross, I know) with NO odor.  Usually, an odorous discharge is associated with a bacterial infection that is sexually transmitted.  You could have redness and soreness with swelling, also.  Pain can be a symptom of a yeast infection, especially if you've been scratching a lot.\nCramping can be a common symptom of some of the creams that are used to treat yeast infections.  Have you been using these?  \nHave you tried anything yet?  There are lots of creams and vaginal suppositories you can get from a drug store that are pretty effective if it is indeed a yeast infection.  You could try one of these products and use an external cream for the itching.  I would say that if these don't start working within a few days and/or the abdominal pain continues for the same amount of time, you should see a doctor.\nHope that helps!