In case you need a refresher, these are the symptoms of a yeast infection.
Yeast infection symptoms can range in severity, but theyre pretty much guaranteed to always be unpleasant.
you’ve got the option to read more about recurring and complicated yeast infectionshere.
Crop woman in ochre dress holding half of peeled pomelo while standing on white background.
So what causes yeast infections?
Broadly speaking, yeast infections are typically triggered by an overgrowth of a fungus calledCandida albicans.
Yeast infections specifically happen when something throwsLactobacillus, the good bacteria that typically keepCandida albicansin check, off balance.
A lot of things can throw off the vaginas bacterial harmony like this and cause a yeast infection.
Here are some common yeast infection causes to keep on your radar:
1.
Itll help pull the moisture away from your skin and keep the whole area drier.
Those symptoms can be misdiagnosed as an infection, for which you might be prescribed an antibiotic.
High estrogen levels
Sometimes it’s possible for you to thank your hormones for yeast infections.
Douching can seriously disrupt the normal pH of the vagina and cause an overgrowth of yeast or harmful bacteria.
Its like washing your mouth out with soap.
Your vagina can actually clean itself just fine using that discharge we talked aboutno soap necessary.
Instead, simply rinse the area around the vulva with warm water while showering.
If you dont interrupt the ecosystem, the bacteria and yeast will stay balanced on their own.
For more information,hereseverything you better know about cleaning your vagina.
Everything you gotta know ishere.
Certain lubes
Some people are sensitive to certain types oflubes.
Some, especially glycerin-based, have sugar in them, Dr. Rowen explains, which can prompt yeast growth.
Same goes for flavored or warming lubes, which may contain not only sugar but also irritating chemicals.
She recommends sticking to water-based lube without glycerin if youre prone to yeast infections.
Using a spermicide or condoms that contain it can also cause yeast infections in some people.
Heres what to do if you suspect you have a yeast infection.
It becomes a vicious cycle, he says.
So dont hesitate once that trademark itch hits.
