Vaginal yeast infections are commonly known as Candida vaginal infections. They are typically caused by the Candida albicans fungus. During a life, 75% of all women are probable to have at least one vaginal Candida infection and up to 45% include two or more. Women tend to be extra likely to get to vaginal yeast infections if their bodies are under pressure from poor diet, lack of sleep, illness or when they are expectant or taking antibiotics. Women with immune-suppressing illness like diabetes and HIV infection also are at increased risk. The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are vaginal itch or soreness, thick, white, cheese like discharge. Burning and discomfort around the vaginal opening, especially if urine touches the area and pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse are common in yeast infection..

Diagnosis and duration:

The doctor will guess an infection based on the symptoms. The doctor will do a pelvic examination to look for inflammation and a white discharge in the vagina and around the vaginal opening. Proper healing cures up to 90% of vaginal yeast infections within two weeks or less, often in a few days. A small number of people will have recurred infections. Usually, these will get better with repeated treatment.

Prevention and treatment:
To help prevent vaginal yeast infections
1. Keep the external genital part clean and dry.
2. Avoid irritating soaps, vaginal sprays and douches.
3. Change tampons and hygienic napkins frequently.
4. Wear loose cotton underwear that does not trap moisture.
5. After swimming, change quickly into the dry clothing instead of sitting in the wet bathing suit for prolonged periods.
6. Take antibiotics only when prescribed by doctor and never take them for longer than the doctor directs.
7. If diabetic, try to keep tight control over the blood sugar levels.

Vaginal yeast infections can be treated by antifungal medicines that are inserted directly into the vagina as tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories. A single dose of oral fluconazole also may be used, although this treatment is not recommended during pregnancy. Healing of sex partners is not usually necessary, since most vaginal yeast infections are not transmitted sexually. This is important to be sure that the vaginal release and discomfort is caused by yeast and not sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia or trichomoniasis.