Everything You Want to Know About Yeast Infections

Integrity Urgent Care is concerned about taking care of patients and all of their needs. While talking about sexual health and issues may sometimes feel taboo or uncomfortable, it is important to have a good understanding of all aspects of your health and to be able to speak with your medical care providers about any concerns you may have. A yeast infection can be a discomfort to anyone who has one and there are ways you can seek relief.

What is a yeast infection?

We all have a natural amount of bacteria, including yeast, in our bodies. A yeast infection occurs when this bacteria gets out of balance and causes discomfort and other issues. There are numerous types of yeast infections, including thrush and skin infections, but the most common type is vaginitis. According to the Mayo Clinic, 75% of women will get one at some point in their lifetime. 

Who gets them?

Women can get a yeast infection for a number of reasons, not necessarily linked to sexual activity. While some yeast infections may be transmitted by oral sex and other yeast infections are linked to “the time of first regular sexual activity”, they are usually caused by other issues.

What are symptoms?

Symptoms range from moderate to mild with the most common being itching, irritation, or burning in and around the vagina. Some patients may experience watery discharge; others may have an odorless white discharge. Pain and soreness are not uncommon, especially while urinating or during intercourse. 

What are concerns?

A yeast infection is fairly simple to treat, especially when properly diagnosed. The largest concerns are when the patient is pregnant, which happens with some frequency during pregnancy. The primary concern is the treatment plan since some medications are not recommended during pregnancy. Other concerns are when a strain of bacteria is resistant to treatment or when left untreated all together, can cause long term symptoms or increased issues. 

What are the causes of yeast infections?

The imbalance of yeast in the body can be caused by a number of factors, but there are a few more likely to trigger an infection. Hot tubs and very hot baths can impact your body’s system. Staying in wet clothes, like sweaty workout clothes or swimsuits can cause this overgrowth. Using scented feminine products, even bubble baths or certain cleaning products can be a factor. Also, tight fitting panty hose, leggings, or certain types of underwear can be linked to yeast infections. 

How are they treated?

Once a doctor diagnoses you, the treatment plan will often involve an antifungal medication and an oral medication. You will also want to consider what may have been the cause of the yeast infection in the first place and try to avoid those behaviors if possible. Some are more susceptible to yeast infections than others, including those who frequently take antibiotics, those with uncontrolled diabetes, and those using oral contraceptives or another form of hormone therapy. 

Your entire body works together to function in different ways and we want our patients to be healthy, in all ways. If you have additional concerns about symptoms like these or other issues, please contact us today. Our clinics are open every day from 8am to 8pm and walk-in appointments are available.