What causes yeast infections in girls and young women. How can yeast infections be prevented and treated. When do yeast infections become dangerous. What are the symptoms of a yeast infection.

Understanding Yeast Infections: Causes and Prevalence

Yeast infections, particularly those affecting the vagina and surrounding areas, are remarkably common among females. Approximately 75% of women will experience at least one yeast infection in their lifetime. These infections, while typically not serious, can cause significant discomfort and inconvenience.

The primary culprit behind yeast infections is an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus naturally present in the body. Under normal circumstances, the body maintains a delicate balance of microorganisms. However, certain factors can disrupt this equilibrium, leading to an overgrowth of yeast.

Common Causes of Yeast Infections

• Antibiotic use
• Hormonal changes
• Underlying health conditions
• Weakened immune system

Antibiotics, while essential for fighting bacterial infections, can inadvertently kill beneficial bacteria that keep Candida in check. This disruption can create an environment conducive to yeast overgrowth. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those associated with puberty, menstruation, and certain birth control methods, can also increase the likelihood of yeast infections.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Yeast Infections

Identifying a yeast infection early can lead to prompt treatment and relief. The most common symptoms include:

• Itching and burning sensation in the vaginal area
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Pain or discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse
• A thick, white, odorless discharge resembling cottage cheese

Do these symptoms always indicate a yeast infection? Not necessarily. Similar symptoms can be caused by other conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis, especially if it’s the first time experiencing these symptoms or if they persist despite over-the-counter treatments.

Treatment Options for Yeast Infections

Treating yeast infections typically involves antifungal medications. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and frequency of infections.

Topical Treatments

For uncomplicated yeast infections, topical antifungal creams, ointments, or suppositories are often the first line of defense. These medications work by targeting the overgrown Candida and restoring balance to the vaginal flora. Common over-the-counter options include miconazole and clotrimazole.

Oral Medications

In cases of recurrent or severe infections, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. Fluconazole is a commonly prescribed oral treatment that can effectively combat stubborn yeast infections.

How long does it take for a yeast infection to clear up? With proper treatment, most yeast infections resolve within a week to two weeks. However, it’s essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence.

The Potential Dangers of Yeast Infections

While most yeast infections are merely uncomfortable, they can pose serious risks in certain circumstances. Understanding these potential dangers is crucial for proper management and timely medical intervention.

Systemic Candidiasis

In rare cases, Candida can enter the bloodstream, leading to a condition known as systemic candidiasis. This serious infection can spread to various parts of the body, including the heart, brain, and other organs. Systemic candidiasis is most common in:

• Newborns, especially those with low birth weight
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
• Patients with medical devices such as catheters

How is systemic candidiasis treated? Treatment typically involves intravenous antifungal medications administered in a hospital setting. The duration and specific medication depend on the extent of the infection and the patient’s overall health.

Complications During Pregnancy

Pregnant women with untreated yeast infections may face an increased risk of complications. These can include:

• Premature rupture of membranes
• Preterm labor
• Transmission of the infection to the newborn during delivery

For this reason, pregnant women should always consult their healthcare provider if they suspect a yeast infection, as safe and effective treatment options are available during pregnancy.

Preventing Yeast Infections: Practical Strategies

While it may not be possible to prevent all yeast infections, several strategies can significantly reduce the risk of developing them.

Maintaining Good Hygiene

Proper hygiene practices play a crucial role in preventing yeast infections. These include:

• Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom
• Avoiding douching, which can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora
• Changing out of wet or sweaty clothing promptly
• Using gentle, unscented soaps and avoiding irritating products in the genital area

Choosing the Right Clothing

The type of clothing worn can impact the likelihood of developing a yeast infection. To reduce risk:

• Opt for breathable, cotton underwear
• Avoid tight-fitting pants or synthetic materials that trap moisture
• Change out of wet bathing suits or exercise clothes promptly

Dietary Considerations

While the link between diet and yeast infections is not fully understood, some dietary choices may help prevent overgrowth of Candida:

• Limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates, which may feed yeast
• Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt into the diet
• Staying hydrated to help flush out toxins

Can dietary changes alone prevent yeast infections? While a healthy diet supports overall vaginal health, it’s not a guarantee against yeast infections. It’s best used in conjunction with other preventive measures.

The Role of Antibiotics in Yeast Infections

Antibiotics are a double-edged sword when it comes to yeast infections. While they’re essential for treating bacterial infections, they can also disrupt the delicate balance of microorganisms in the body, potentially leading to yeast overgrowth.

Mitigating the Risk of Antibiotic-Induced Yeast Infections

When antibiotics are necessary, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing a yeast infection:

• Taking probiotics during and after antibiotic treatment
• Using antifungal medications prophylactically, if recommended by a healthcare provider
• Staying vigilant for signs of yeast overgrowth and seeking prompt treatment if symptoms appear

Is it safe to take probiotics with antibiotics? Generally, yes. However, it’s best to space them out by a few hours to ensure the antibiotics’ effectiveness isn’t compromised. Always consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.

Yeast Infections and Sexual Health

While yeast infections are not typically classified as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), they can have implications for sexual health and activity.

Sexual Transmission of Yeast

Although uncommon, it is possible for yeast infections to be passed between sexual partners. This is more likely to occur if one partner has an overgrowth of Candida. To reduce the risk of transmission:

• Avoid sexual activity during active yeast infections
• Use barrier methods of protection, such as condoms
• Both partners should seek treatment if recurrent infections are an issue

Impact on Sexual Comfort

Yeast infections can make sexual activity uncomfortable or painful. It’s important to communicate openly with partners about any discomfort and to seek treatment promptly. Engaging in sexual activity with an active yeast infection can also worsen symptoms or prolong healing time.

Can sexual activity cause yeast infections? While sexual activity itself doesn’t cause yeast infections, certain practices, such as using spermicides or engaging in oral-genital contact, may increase the risk of developing one.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many yeast infections can be treated effectively with over-the-counter medications, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary.

Signs That Warrant a Doctor’s Visit

• First-time symptoms of a yeast infection
• Persistent symptoms despite over-the-counter treatment
• Recurrent infections (four or more in a year)
• Unusual discharge or severe symptoms
• Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
• Underlying health conditions such as diabetes or HIV

How do healthcare providers diagnose yeast infections? Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic exam and may include a sample of vaginal secretions for laboratory analysis. This helps distinguish yeast infections from other conditions with similar symptoms.

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis

Self-diagnosis and treatment of yeast infections can be risky. Misdiagnosis may lead to inappropriate treatment, potentially allowing other conditions to worsen. Additionally, frequent use of over-the-counter antifungal medications without proper diagnosis can lead to drug-resistant strains of Candida, making future infections more difficult to treat.

What other conditions can mimic yeast infection symptoms? Bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and certain sexually transmitted infections can present with similar symptoms. Only a healthcare provider can accurately differentiate between these conditions.

Special Considerations for Young Girls

While yeast infections are more common in adult women, young girls can also be affected. Understanding the unique aspects of yeast infections in this age group is crucial for proper care and prevention.

Causes in Young Girls

In prepubescent girls, yeast infections may be caused by:

• Poor hygiene practices
• Tight-fitting clothing or non-breathable materials
• Prolonged exposure to moisture (e.g., wet bathing suits)
• Use of antibiotics
• Underlying health conditions

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms in young girls may include:

• Redness and itching of the vulva
• Discomfort or burning sensation during urination
• Vaginal discharge (though this is less common in prepubescent girls)

Diagnosis in young girls often involves a physical examination and may include gentle swabbing of the affected area for laboratory analysis. It’s crucial to seek professional medical advice rather than attempting to diagnose or treat yeast infections in young girls at home.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment for yeast infections in young girls typically involves topical antifungal medications prescribed by a healthcare provider. Prevention strategies include:

• Teaching proper hygiene habits, including wiping from front to back
• Encouraging the use of breathable cotton underwear
• Avoiding bubble baths and scented soaps in the genital area
• Changing out of wet clothing promptly

How can parents discuss yeast infections with young girls? It’s important to approach the topic in an age-appropriate, matter-of-fact manner, focusing on hygiene and overall health rather than stigmatizing the condition.

Yeast Infections in Girls and Young Women

Log in
|
Register

Health Issues

Health Issues

​Yeast infections in the vagina and surrounding area are common in girls and women. In fact, it’s estimated that about 75 percent of all females will get a yeast infection at some point. The infection usually isn’t serious, but can be bothersome. Symptoms often include itching, burning, and a clumpy white discharge.

What Causes Yeast Infections?

Yeast infections may arise when the balance of microscopic organisms that normally co-exist in the body become unbalanced. Some possible causes for this include: 

• Antibiotics. Yeast infections may develop after taking antibiotics. Antibiotics are prescription medicines used to fight harmful bacteria that can make a child sick. Antibiotics may also kill some of the body’s “good” bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, that usually keep the Candida in balance.  
• Hormones. Changing hormone levels that begin during puberty can lead to yeast infections. Older girls are more likely to get a yeast infection right before their periods, for example.  Some birth control medications can also increase infections, with Candida growth tied to higher estrogen levels.
• Underlying Conditions. Poorly controlled diabetes can make a child more likely to develop yeast infections, since higher blood sugar levels may promote Candida growth.
• Immune Response. A weakened immune system caused by other illnesses or certain medications can make it difficult to fight off Candida that’s overgrowing.

Treatment

Yeast is actually a fungus, so your pediatrician can prescribe topical anti-fungal creams, ointments or suppositories to clear up an infection.  For yeast infections that return frequently, the pediatrician may prescribe oral medications.

Can Yeast Infections Be Dangerous?

Yeast infections usually aren’t dangerous unless Candida gets into the bloodstream and spreads to other parts of the body. Bloodstream infections are most common in newborns, especially low-birthweight babies, who can acquire the infection from their mothers before or during birth.

Children with medical conditions who receive treatments involving catheters, or whose immune systems are weakened by illnesses or certain medications, also are at higher risk. If candidiasis has spread through the blood to other parts of the body, your pediatrician will usually recommend treatment with an intravenous (IV) medication.

Prevention

Wise Antibiotic Use.  It may be difficult to prevent all yeast infections, especially when caused by antibiotics, which your child may need for common bacterial ailments such as ear infections and strep throat. But make sure all antibiotics are taken only as prescribed. Your pediatrician or pharmacist may recommend taking probiotics supplements to rebuild beneficial bacteria in the body such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, which help keep Candida in balance.

Focus on Health.  Make sure your child eats a nutritious diet, gets enough sleep, and knows how to manage stress. These and other healthy habits can help keep the immune system strong so it can fight off Candida overgrowth and other infections. See your pediatrician regularly to stay on top of routine health issues and conditions such as diabetes, which can contribute to yeast infections if not well controlled.

Stay Clean and Dry. Because yeast thrives in moist conditions, it may help to wear underwear made of cotton or other breathable fabric. Avoid materials like nylon that can trap heat and moisture, and make sure clothing isn’t too tight. Teach younger children who are potty training to wipe from front to back to avoid spreading microbes from the intestinal track to the vaginal area.

Other considerations. Teens using an antifungal cream, ointment or suppository who are sexually active should not have sex until the infection is completely gone.   Topical medications can weaken condoms and diaphragms. Also, while yeast infections are not considered a sexually transmitted disease, the infection can be spread during sexual activity. Douching also should be avoided, because it can affect the balance of beneficial bacteria in the vagina that helps keep yeast from taking over.

Remember

If you notice your child scratching a lot, talk to your pediatrician before surrounding skin becomes raw and open to bacterial infections. Be sure to mention if yeast infections are frequent so underlying medical conditions can be ruled out.

Additional Information from HealthyChildren.org:

• Vaginal Infections
• Urinary Tract Infections in Teens

Last Updated

1/31/2018

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics (Copyright © 2018)

The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

Why It Should Be Diagnosed and Treated

Without treatment, a yeast infection could become more serious. There’s a chance that it could resolve on its own, but it could also worsen.

A vaginal yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis) is a relatively common fungal infection that causes thick, white discharge along with irritation, itchiness, and swelling of the vulva and vagina.

Keep reading to learn more about the downsides of ignoring yeast infections.

If left untreated, vaginal candidiasis will most likely get worse, causing itching, redness, and inflammation in the area surrounding your vagina. This may lead to a skin infection if the inflamed area becomes cracked, or if continual scratching creates open or raw areas.

Uncommon side effects of an untreated yeast infection include:

• fatigue
• oral thrush
• gastrointestinal problems

Invasive candidiasis

Invasive candidiasis occurs when the yeast infection affects other parts of the body, such as the:

• blood
• heart
• brain
• bones
• eyes

Invasive candidiasis is usually associated with an open sore that’s exposed to a yeast infection. It isn’t typically related to vaginal yeast infections. It can cause serious health complications if not promptly treated.

Candidemia

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), candidemia is one of the most common forms of invasive candidiasis in the United States. It’s also one of the most common bloodstream infections in the country.

Yeast infections are common during pregnancy due to fluctuating hormones. If you’re pregnant and think you may have a yeast infection, see a doctor so that you can get the right diagnosis and treatment.

Topical antifungals are safe to use during pregnancy, but you won’t be able to take oral antifungal medications.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), oral fluconazole (Diflucan) taken during the first trimester of pregnancy may cause birth defects. A 2016 study also linked the use of oral fluconazole taken during pregnancy with an increased risk of miscarriage.

A mild yeast infection is expected to clear up in a few days to a week. Moderate to severe infections may take 2 to 3 weeks.

Can yeast infections go away on their own?

There’s a possibility that a yeast infection can go away on its own. The probability varies from person to person.

If you decide not to treat the infection, however, it might get worse. There’s also the possibility that you’ve misdiagnosed your condition, and what you thought was candidiasis was a more serious problem.

According to the Mayo Clinic, 75 percent of women will experience a vaginal yeast infection at some point in their lifetime.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) indicates that about 5 percent of women will experience recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). This is defined as four or more vaginal yeast infections in 1 year.

RVVC can occur in healthy women, but it’s more common in women with diabetes or weak immune systems from conditions such as HIV.

According to the HHS, about 66 percent of women who buy yeast infection medicine don’t actually have a yeast infection.

The symptoms may be caused by an allergic reaction or irritation due to sensitivity to tampons, soaps, powders, or perfume. Or they may have another vaginal infection, such as:

• bacterial vaginosis
• chlamydia
• gonorrhea
• trichomoniasis
• herpes

You should see a doctor if you’re not 100 percent sure that you have a yeast infection. They may diagnose you with a yeast infection, or they may discover a more serious condition.

If you’re treating what you think is a yeast infection without doctor diagnosis and it doesn’t clear up in a week or two, see a doctor. The medication you’re using may not be strong enough, or you may not have a yeast infection.

You should also visit a doctor if the infection returns in a couple of months. Having more than one yeast infection in a year could be an indication of an underlying medical condition.

Don’t put off seeing a doctor if your symptoms include:

• fever
• foul-smelling or yellow discharge
• bloody discharge
• back or stomach pain
• vomiting
• increased urination

Vaginal yeast infection should be properly diagnosed and treated. If left untreated, a yeast infection may lead to health problems, such as:

• skin infections
• fatigue
• oral thrush
• gastrointestinal problems
• invasive candidiasis

Diagnosis is a critical step, as the symptoms of a yeast infection are similar to more serious conditions, such as:

• bacterial vaginosis
• chlamydia
• gonorrhea

What do we still not know about thrush? — UCM Zdravica — UCM Zdravica

Thrush (urogenital candidiasis) is an infectious lesion of the skin and mucous membranes of the urogenital system caused by fungi of the genus Candida.

Symptoms of thrush

The main symptoms of candidiasis that women complain about at the doctor’s office are itching and burning, as well as discharge from the genital tract of various consistency (curdled, flaky, creamy).

Patients with thrush usually show a decrease in general immunity, which can be caused by the following factors:

• imbalance of female sex hormones;
• malnutrition, including the use of a significant amount of sugar-containing foods that create an ideal breeding ground for the development of this type of fungus;
• stress;
• uncontrolled use of antibiotics and corticosteroids;
• infectious diseases of the genital organs;
• diseases that reduce immunity: diabetes mellitus, thyroid pathology, tuberculosis, hypovitaminosis, HIV infection;
• pregnancy;
• first sexual contact;
• wearing tight synthetic underwear.

Remember that completely different diseases can occur with the same symptoms, so only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe the right treatment. You should not resort to advice from the Internet or a pharmacist in a pharmacy.

What happens if you don’t treat thrush?

A careless attitude to the treatment of this disease can lead to a chronic form of thrush, which is dangerous because it spreads to neighboring organs and can lead to diseases such as intestinal candidiasis, cystitis, cervical erosion, etc. If thrush is not treated during pregnancy, then there is a very high risk of infection transmission from mother to child.

How to treat and why does it appear again and again?

As a rule, folk remedies in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis only alleviate the symptoms of the disease, but do not eradicate its cause.

At the moment, the most effective means are tablet preparations – systemic antimycotics, as well as local ones – suppositories, ointments, creams.

Advertising of many remedies for thrush promises us to get rid of this unpleasant disease once and for all, but, unfortunately, there is no drug that would guarantee getting rid of this type of fungus for life. Mushrooms have been living on Earth for millions of years and have the ability to adapt to any new environment. It is for this reason that a treatment once prescribed by a doctor can be completely ineffective the second time. To prevent relapses, it is also necessary to change a lot in lifestyle and nutrition. In some cases, it is necessary to do a smear analysis to determine drug sensitivity. This is the only way to choose a truly effective treatment and prevent the recurrence of candidiasis.

What can be done to avoid thrush?

In order to avoid this disease and protect the body from its recurrence as much as possible:

• protect yourself during sexual contact, especially if sexual partners change frequently;
• do not frequently douche;
• exclude uncontrolled intake of antibacterial drugs;
• limit the intake of sugary ingredients;
• timely diagnose and treat diseases of the endocrine system;
• do not wear synthetic underwear.

Remember that malnutrition can provoke the development of this disease. For prevention, as well as in the treatment of thrush, the following products should be excluded from the diet: fast food, convenience foods, products containing yeast or a large amount of sugars, including chocolate, honey, jam, bananas, pineapples.

How can Toast help?

Correctly diagnosing the disease, prescribing an effective, but sparing treatment, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body, if necessary, get advice from doctors of related specialties (urologist, gastroenterologist, therapist, etc.) – these are the main components of a positive result in the treatment of candidiasis. And of course, not the last in this list is an attentive and caring attitude towards our patients. After all, mutual trust between the doctor and the patient is the key to successful treatment.

Zdravitsa Family Medicine Centers employ experienced and attentive gynecologists who will competently answer all questions related to women’s health and help to cope with candidiasis.

Be healthy and remember that self-treatment often leads to serious complications!

The consequences of thrush, what is dangerous, is it contagious. What are the possible complications?

It would seem that such a familiar disease to everyone – thrush … Can it lead to serious consequences?

Vaginal candidiasis (or thrush) is not a serious gynecological disease. However, it causes great discomfort to the woman and can lead to serious complications and further health problems. Like any disease, candidiasis needs long-term and thorough treatment in order to avoid recurrence and its transformation into a chronic form.

Thrush can often be the cause of:

• various inflammatory processes of the pelvic organs;
• cystitis;
• colpitis;
• vaginitis;
• other diseases of the genitourinary system.

The consequences of thrush affect the entire body, reducing its protective properties and significantly increasing the risk of permanent infectious diseases. Often thrush is the cause of inflammation of the urinary tract and kidneys . Getting into them, the fungus creates lesions, thereby causing periodic exacerbations and creating a threat of bacterial infection.

One of the most significant consequences is the negative impact on the body of a pregnant woman and the fetus , which almost inevitably becomes infected with a fungus from the mother, passing through the birth canal prone to candidiasis. Therefore, thrush and the consequences of this disease should be treated already in the early stages, when the disease is easy to diagnose. You can start treatment today at ON Clinic by calling us at the numbers listed on the page.

And yet, what is the danger of thrush, and how can you get infected with it? To date, there are several known ways for Candida to enter the human body. :

1. Infection of the fetus from a mother with this disease. In this case, thrush is contagious in 70% of all births, whether they occur naturally or by caesarean section.