Our vConfidence-certified doctors understand that a yeast infection can be a very delicate and uncomfortable problem. When you think you might have a yeast infection, go see your vConfidence-certified doctor today.
What is a Yeast Infection?
A yeast infection is an uncomfortable and itchy infection of the vagina caused by an overgrowth of the fungus candida (yeast). Your vagina already has some level of candida. It also has the bacteria lactobacillus which produces acid that regulates the yeast levels. When the bacteria can no longer regulate the yeasts levels, and they grow too much, you get an infection. When you have the perfect amount of lactobacillus in your system, you have a pH balance of 3.5 – 4.5. The pH balance refers to your vagina’s acidity level. Yeast infections especially affect the vulva, which is the area around the vagina. 75% of women will have a yeast infection in their lifetime. They are most common after puberty and before menopause.
Risk factors include:
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Birth control
- Douching and vaginal sprays
- Antibiotics and steroids
- Weakened immune system
Yeast Infection Symptoms
The most common symptom is itchiness. Other symptoms include redness, pain during intercourse or urination, soreness, and thick vaginal discharge. These symptoms can create huge discomfort and make intimacy more difficult.
If you experience these symptoms four times in a year, you may need special treatment. Other factors that make the symptoms more complicated include pregnancy, diabetes, a weakened immune system, and severe symptoms.
Yeast Infection Treatment
Luckily, yeast infections are very treatable, and your vConfidence-certified doctor can find the best solution for you. Antifungal medications can reduce the level of yeast to cure your infection. These come in multiple forms and are mostly prescribed as a cream or tablet. Popular medicines include Gynazole-1, Gyne-Lotrimin, Monistat 3, and Terazol 3. More complicated cases may require azol medications for 1 to 2 weeks, a multi-dose oral medication, and/or a maintenance plan to assure that your medication is treating your infection.
Of course, prevention is the best solution. You doctor can offer a number of different options to keep your pH levels regular so that you don’t get an infection in the first place. This will also greatly reduce the chance of having multiple yeast infections. Other ways to prevent yeast infections are to wear loose, cotton undergarments, loose pants, change garments after swimming and working out, and avoid hot tubs and hot baths.
Contact a vConfidence-certified doctor in Baltimore, Maryland to go over the treatment plan for your yeast infection.
Dr. Maria Canter is a board-certified gynecologist and offers minimally invasive treatments in the Baltimore, MD area. She uses her education and expertise to find the perfect solution for each one of her patients, emphasizing the importance of comfort and education.