Statistically, it is women who seem to be more susceptible to yeast infections than men. Small amounts of the fungus. candida, a yeast, is always present inside the vagina. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases reports that most women will experience a yeast infection during their lifetime. For ‘most women’ I am taking about 78%. Around 46% will experience this condition more than once. If you find yourself among the 34% who don’t understand anything, good for you!
The presence of Candida, inside the vagina, is only a problem if it multiplies into a yeast overgrowth. Under normal conditions, although it is present, it is controlled by the body’s natural defense mechanisms and does not present any real problem.
Symptoms may include but are not limited to: ongoing irritation of the vagina, pain during sexual activity, vaginal rash/swelling/redness, unpleasant “creamy” consistency or watery discharge, or pain/burning with urination.
It is possible to have no symptoms at all. Some women are only alerted to the problem when their sexual partner reports that she has a symptom or has tested positive for the infection. Then it follows that they, too, require examination.
Studies have shown that several elements may be associated with an increased risk of infection for women, including: malfunctioning of the body’s immune system, pregnancy, taking a course of antibiotics, using an ablution shower, use of feminine hygiene sprays, steroids, or diabetes. If any of these strike a chord with you, due to recent changes in your health or hygiene routine, then you may get a clue as to why this has flared up in your own case.
We have come to hope that antibiotics can come to our aid. But unfortunately, not in this case. Like the good bacteria, which strengthen our immune system, they are also killed by antibiotic treatment. Yes, that surprised me too!
As long as the infection remains inside the vagina, it stays contained. Where Systemic Candidiasis, where candida moves throughout the body, is the greater of the two evils. Due to the movement of the virus to various humid areas of our anatomy. The parts of our body it seems to thrive in include: the liver, lungs, bronchial tubes, brain, sinuses, intestine, and colon.
Fortunately, there are many treatments available for a vaginal yeast infection. So you don’t need to worry about a long-term problem. It’s all part of the ups and downs of life. Uncomfortable and unpleasant: yes, a big problem: certainly not.
So if this is currently a source of concern for you, relax! Fate has not singled you out for some form of ‘punishment’ for cheating on your 7th grade math test. With a course of treatment, you will soon get your life back the way you want.
