Vaginal yeast infection

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Vaginal yeast infection

Vaginal yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis) is an excess growth of yeast organisms in the vagina. It causes itching, swelling, and pain during urination and intercourse, and produces a thick, white discharge from the vagina.

Although symptoms are bothersome and can cause severe discomfort, yeast infections rarely lead to serious health problems.

Vaginal yeast infection is common among women of childbearing age but can occur in women of any age. Certain factors increase the risk of getting a vaginal yeast infection. These include using antibiotics, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or corticosteroids; being pregnant; douching; and wearing tight-fitting clothes. Immune system problems, diabetes, and other diseases also increase the risk of yeast infections.

Vaginal yeast infections can go away on their own; persistent infections are treated with medications.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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