White in women or men is caused by the overgrowth of a fungus, known as Candida. This occurs naturally inside the body in normal conditions. This microorganism is formally called Candida Albicans and it is normally located inside the gastrointestinal tract, vagina and on the skin. When the immune system works properly and the body is not weakened by various causes, these microorganisms will not trigger any symptoms. However, when there are changes in the normal bacterial flora of the vagina, a female yeast infection can develop.

Common Causes of Female Yeast Infection

Most women experience the specific symptoms after menstruation, but any disruption in the general equilibrium between friendly (probiotics) and unfriendly (Candida yeast)  microorganisms can lead to this health problem. Tight clothes, harsh detergents and shower products, an improper intimate hygiene, unprotected sexual contact, a diet rich in fats and sugars as well as hormonal imbalances that occur during pregnancy are among the common cause of yeast infection in women   resulting in:

  • yeast infection during pregnacy
  • vaginal yeast infection
  • skin yeast infection, such as yeast infection under the breast or yeast infection rash
  • candida esophagitis
  • Oral yeast

Whenever one of these triggers is present, the human body becomes more prone to developing a yeast infection. Women usually notice a thick, odorless vaginal discharge that causes itching and irritation around the vaginal opening. Also, painful urination and sexual contact, redness, soreness and swelling of the vulva may indicate the presence of  Candidiasis.

Symptoms of Vaginal Yeast Infection

  • vaginal itching
  • vaginal burning
  • vaginal irritation
  • painful urination
  • painful sexual intercourse
  • odorless vaginal discharge (may be thick whitish-gray and cottage-cheese-like or may be watery in consistency) 

Why did I get a yeast infection?

Many things can raise your risk of a vaginal yeast infection, such as:

  • Stress
  • Lack of sleep
  • Illness
  • Poor eating habits, including eating extreme amounts of sugary foods
  • Pregnancy
  • Having your period
  • Taking certain medicines, including birth control pills, antibiotics, and steroids
  • Diseases such as poorly controlled diabetes and HIV/AIDS
  • Hormonal changes during your periods

Can I get a yeast infection from having sex?

Yes, but it is rare. Most often, women don’t get yeast infections from sex. The most common cause is a weak immune system.


What is the best approach to treat a yeast infection in women?

The most common treatment for this health problem in females is the use of home and over the counter remedies, generally topical creams and oral tablets. These remedies have good results in women who don’t experience recurrent episodes of yeast infections, but it is important to combine these medications with dietary and lifestyle changes, which will aid in strengthening the immune system in order to to restore the balance of the intestinal and vaginal flora and to eliminate the potential triggers of future outbreaks.