Yeast vaginitis is a common vaginal infection that affects up to 75% of women at least once during their lifetime. The most frequent symptoms are itchiness, redness, a whitish discharge and pain. It should be noted that there are several types of vaginitis. They are caused by different types of microbes and the various symptoms and treatments differ.
Yeast vaginitis can occur in healthy women. Certain factors may cause an abnormal growth of microbes, leading to an infection. If you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of vaginitis for the first time, it is mandatory to consult your physician as he or she will be able to identify the microbe responsible and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Although yeast vaginitis can be very unpleasant, it is not serious and is usually easy to treat.
Risk factors
Certain factors may promote the growth of yeast:
Yeast vaginitis may nonetheless develop in spite of not having any predisposing factors.
Treatment
Yeast infections can be treated locally with vaginal products or with a single dose of an oral antifungal agent.
Once you have consulted with your physician to rule out other types of vaginal infections and are able to recognize the symptoms of yeast vaginitis, you can go to your pharmacy and buy a treatment product that does not require a prescription. Your pharmacist will help you choose the most suitable product from among the vaginal creams and tablets available, for a course of treatment that varies between 1 and 7 days, or an oral product if available. These products are effective and have very few side effects with the exception of mild irritation on application. Sexual partners do not usually require treatment.
Here are some tips that may be helpful if you have yeast vaginitis:© Copyright Vigilance Santé
The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.