Almost ever woman, at some point in life will experience a yeast infection.  For various reasons, not fully understood, some women suffer this unpleasant infection often, others rarely.

The yeast (Candida) is a very common microorganism that grows on the warm damp walls of the vagina.  It is one of the normal microorganisms in this area of the body, and generally does not cause any problems.  However, if the balance is upset, the Candida organisms will quickly multiply and alter the acidity of the vagina.  Soon the itchy, burning, white discharge appears.  This is known as a yeast infection.  Other symptoms may include a faint unpleasant odor, burning and pain when urinating, uncomfortable intercourse, and redness or swelling around the vulva.

Although there is no definitive cause of yeast infections, there are several factors that significantly contribute to the condition.

1.  The use of antibiotics is frequently followed by an outbreak of a yeast infection.  Antibiotics kill not only the bad bacteria, but the good bacteria as well.  Thus the balance of vaginal flora is upset and the yeast grows unchecked.  Although antibiotics are often essential, it is wise not to overuse them as the consequences are not always good.

2.  Douching can cause problems for many women, especially if it is excessive.  This is another way that the natural balance can be disturbed.  The douching may cause the surface of the vaginal walls to dry and wash away healthy bacteria, even as it washes away unwanted odors.

Douche as infrequently as possible to help maintain the acid balance, use a douche that contains vinegar.

3.  A compromised immune system, no matter what the cause, leaves many women increasingly susceptible to yeast infections.  This is something you must discuss with your doctor.

4.  Increased moisture and warmth cause an increase in yeast infections as a warm humid environment is what the Candida thrives on.  Excessive sweating due to weather or exercise or sitting around in a wet bathing suit can all contribute to the growth of yeast.

5.  A hormone imbalance which may occur at any time but are more likely during pregnancy or during periods of high estrogen levels also lead to increases in yeast infections.  Many woman on birth control experience regular yeast infections as their levels of estrogen fluctuate.

6.  Women with diabetes that is not well controlled may find that yeast infections increase with elevated levels of blood sugar.

7.  A Diet heavy in sugary foods may cause increased yeast infections.  Some women feel this is definitely true.  Others do not.  Consuming excessive amounts of sugar is not good for anyone so the idea may be worth considering.

If you suffer from confirmed yeast infections on a regular basis, it is important to uncover the cause.  Your doctor will help you with this and then prescribe the most suitable treatment.  Early treatment is always best rather than becoming dependent on repeated doses of antibiotics.

There are some measures you can take to help prevent yeast infections.  These include the following.

a)  Only wear underwear that is cotton or at least that has a cotton crotch.  The same goes for pantyhose.  Avoid tight-fitting clothing.

b)  Avoid all soaps, bath additives, sanitary products and other items, that may come in contact with the vagina or area around it, that contain any perfumes, dyes, or other chemicals.

Be aware that allergic reactions play a part in yeast infections.  Some women are allergic to latex condoms.  Others may have a negative reaction to condom lubricants such as the spermicide used to kill the HIV virus.

Lesbian women may pass yeast infections back and forth between them so suitable precautions should be taken.

c)  Dry yourself well after showering, bathing, or swimming, and never sit around in wet clothing.

d)  If you are diabetic, do all your can to control your blood sugar levels.

Do not treat yourself for a yeast infection unless you have confirmed with your physician that the problem is indeed a yeast infection.  It may be another condition that needs an entirely different treatment.