A yeast infection is a widespread ailment caused by the microorganism Candida Albicans. Candida is part of the normal bacterial flora of the vagina along with other "good" bacteria and is generally kept under control by the immune system; Sometimes, however, an imbalance can be created between the yeasts and the bacteria which causes an overproduction of the former, leading to an infection (known as "vaginal candidiasis"). Most women suffer from a yeast infection sooner or later; this disorder can be very irritating, it is therefore important to know if it has really developed, in order to intervene with the appropriate treatment.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Evaluating the Symptoms
Step 1. Check the symptoms
A yeast infection causes many physical discomforts, among which the most common are:
- Itching (especially on the vulva or around the vaginal opening)
- Tenderness, redness and general discomfort in the vaginal area
- Pain or burning when urinating or having sex
- Thick (cottage cheese-like), white, odorless secretions leaking from the vagina not all women, however, have this symptom.
Step 2. Investigate possible causes
If you can't tell if you have a yeast infection or not, consider some of the most common causes of it:
- Antibiotics. Many women develop this disorder after several days of antibiotic therapy. These drugs kill some of the body's "good" bacteria, including those that prevent yeast growth; as a result, a fungal infection can occur. If you have recently taken antibiotics and are now experiencing burning and itching in the vaginal area, there is likely to be an infection.
- Menses. During the menstrual cycle the chances of having a yeast infection increase. These days, in fact, estrogen releases glycogen (a type of sugar found in cells) on the vaginal lining. When the progesterone concentration increases, the cells break down in the vagina making the sugar available for the yeasts, which develop and grow. Therefore, if you are experiencing the symptoms described so far and are in the days close to menstruation, you may have the infection.
- Contraceptives. Some contraceptive pills and "morning after" pills cause changes in hormone levels (especially estrogen), which can consequently trigger a yeast infection.
- Vaginal lavage. This type of product is mainly used to wash the vagina after the menstrual cycle; however, experts have found that frequent and regular use can alter the balance of bacterial flora and the acidity of the vagina, changing the ratio of "good" to "bad" bacteria. The "good" bacteria help to keep the environment adequately acidic and destroying them allows an excessive proliferation of the "bad" ones, which cause a yeast infection.
- Pathologies already present. Some ailments or diseases, such as HIV or diabetes, can also cause a fungal infection.
- State of general health. Illness, obesity, unhealthy habits, and stress can increase the chances of developing such an infection.
Step 3. Do a home pH test
This is a test you can do comfortably at home to see if you have this infection. The normal pH of the vagina has an approximate value of 4, which means it is slightly acidic. Follow the instructions in the package to know how to proceed.
- The kit should contain a strip of special paper capable of measuring pH, which is placed against the vaginal walls for a few seconds; you should therefore observe the color that appears on the card and compare it with that shown on the table attached to the kit. The number written on the graph next to the color closest to that of the paper corresponds to the pH of the vagina.
- If the pH is higher than 4, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist. However, keep in mind that this test Not indicates that you have a yeast infection, but it could still be a sign of some other infection.
- If the pH is below 4, it is likely (but not certain) that there is a fungal infection.
Part 2 of 2: Getting a Diagnosis
Step 1. Make a doctor's appointment
If you've never had a yeast infection before or aren't sure what kind of problem ails you, you should make an appointment with your gynecologist. This is the only way to know for sure if you actually have this disorder. It is important to get a confident diagnosis, as there are several types of vaginal infections that women often confuse with yeast infections. In fact, although fungal infections are very common, women often have a lot of difficulty in formulating a precise self-diagnosis. Some research has found that only 35% of patients who have already had a fungal infection are able to recognize it correctly by symptoms alone.
- If you are menstruating these days, consider waiting for them to finish before seeing your doctor if possible. However, if you have severe symptoms, go to his office even earlier, even with your menstrual cycle.
- If you go to an emergency clinic and not your usual gynecologist, be prepared to provide your entire medical history.
- Pregnant women should not seek treatment before consulting their doctor.
Step 2. Undergo a physical exam, including a vaginal exam
To confirm the diagnosis, the gynecologist should perform an examination of the labia and vulva to check for inflammation, usually without the need for a full pelvic exam. Typically, he takes a sample of vaginal discharge with a cotton swab and examines it under a microscope for possible yeast or other infections. This type of test is called a "vaginal swab" and is the first method used to confirm yeast infections. Your gynecologist may undergo further tests to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Candida can be identified through the microscope because it has a typical sprouting or branching appearance.
- Not all yeast infections are caused by the "Candida albicans" strain, but there are other different forms of mycosis. Sometimes, a yeast culture is required if the patient continues to experience recurring episodes.
- Remember that there are other possible reasons why you may have a vaginal disorder, including other infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis; for example, many symptoms of a yeast infection are similar to those of a sexually transmitted infection.
Step 3. Undergo treatments
Your gynecologist may prescribe a single-dose tablet of an antifungal drug, such as fluconazole (Diflucan), to be taken by mouth. You can expect some relief within the first 12-24 hours; this is the fastest and most effective way to treat candidiasis. There are also other topical treatments that you can take over the counter or by prescription at the pharmacy, including antifungal creams, ointments and pessaries that are applied and / or inserted into the vagina; talk to your gynecologist to find the most suitable treatment for your specific case.
- Once you have had a vaginal infection of this type and have a clear diagnosis of candidiasis, you will be able to assess subsequent infections yourself and treat yourself with over-the-counter medications. However, even women who have had a fungal infection in the past can confuse symptoms; if you don't get any results with over-the-counter medications, see your gynecologist.
- If after three days your symptoms do not subside or evolve in any way (for example, vaginal discharge increases or changes color), call your gynecologist.
Warnings
- You should see a licensed gynecologist to get a firm diagnosis when you first suspect that you have a yeast infection. After the first diagnosis, subsequent infections (as long as they are not particularly complex or severe) can be treated at home.
- If you have recurring yeast infections (four or more episodes a year), it may be a sign of some more serious underlying disorder, such as diabetes, cancer, or HIV / AIDS.
