Is your vagina itching day and night? At first, you might think it’s just due to the growing pubic hair. But then it just doesn’t stop, and you don’t know what to do anymore: sitting, lying down, standing – it itches! It could be a yeast infection. This infection is common: three out of four women are affected by it at some point in their lives. Sisters Republic explains to you today how to recognize, treat, and prevent relapses of a yeast infection.
1. Vaginal fungus, what is that?
"Scheidenpilz" is not only the title of a song by the French rock band La Femme! While the lyrics summarize the symptoms well, it is mistaken in one point when it claims that "it is dirty." Generally, fungal infections are often associated with the poor hygiene of those affected. This is a misconception! There are many factors that can promote the occurrence of fungal infections.
The most common fungal infections are caused by the pathogen Candida albicans. This is a microscopically small fungus, more specifically a yeast. These fungi are part of the natural vaginal flora, but they usually occur in small numbers and do not cause any discomfort. As long as the vaginal flora is in balance, no infection develops. Certain external factors can lead to its multiplication and thus to infection. The symptoms of a fungal infection are easy to recognize:
- A persistent itch
- A burning feeling
- An unusually strong and thick white discharge.
The Candida albicans produces threads that settle in the mucous membranes, where the skin is thin and there are many nerve fibers. This creates a burning sensation. The vagina tries to defend itself and remove the intruders by secreting odorless, liquid discharge. It looks like curdled milk, but it doesn't smell like that. It is definitely not very appetizing!
Is Candida albicans triggered by menstruation?
A yeast infection can occur at any time during your menstrual cycle, although it has the unpleasant characteristic of manifesting just before menstruation. But who actually invited the yeast? Of course, our friends, the estrogens! These hormones are responsible for the production of glycogen, a sugar that Candida albicans is very fond of. For this reason, pregnant women and women with diabetes are particularly susceptible to yeast infections. The high hormone levels in pregnant women and the high blood sugar levels in diabetics provide an ideal breeding ground for the proliferation of infectious yeast.
"When these natural predispositions encounter a disrupted vaginal flora, the fungus benefits from it. The ecosystem of the intimate area is sensitive and can be disturbed by many factors:"
- Antibiotic
- Cortisone preparations
- Antiseptic soaps
But what damage do these products cause? Antibiotics kill bacteria that are naturally present in the vagina. Some of these bacteria protect against fungal infections and other germs. Cortisone, in turn, weakens the immune system. Some hygiene products are aggressive and disrupt the natural acidity (pH level) of the vaginal flora.
Is vaginal yeast infection sexually transmitted?
Unlike HIV or chlamydia, vaginal yeast infections are not classified as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Phew! That's good news, right? They are also not a sexually transmitted disease (STD) like genital herpes. So, no reason to worry! A vaginal yeast infection is a harmless infection. It neither increases the risk of developing cervical cancer nor the risk of becoming infertile. However, sexual intercourse does have an influence on yeast infections. It can under certain conditions:
- Awaken the Candida albicans.
- Increase the itching
Well, let's be a bit clearer: This is not about sexual intercourse in the strict sense. Rather, it is about unprotected sexual intercourse. When sperm comes into contact with the mucous membranes, it alters the pH level of the vagina. This can disturb the balance of the vaginal flora! On the other hand, if the natural moisture of the vagina is insufficient, friction exacerbates the irritations caused by the fungus. It's time to stock up on condoms and lubricants at your favorite love shop!
2. How can a vaginal yeast infection be treated permanently?
Burning sage will not help you in this case. Fortunately, you can prevent a fungal infection through good intimate hygiene. Prevention is better than treatment! Here are some simple habits you can apply daily:
- Intimate hygiene should be performed no more than twice a day.
- Use mild hygiene products without soap or antiseptics.
- Never perform a "vaginal douche" (internal cleansing).
- Rinse off after the swimming pool with clear water.
- Indicate that you are prone to fungal infections when antibiotics are prescribed to you.
Some women have complexes about the smell of their vagina. However, this is completely natural! The vagina has a wonderful self-cleaning system that you should protect. Scented shower gels can disrupt the ecosystem of the intimate area just like chlorine. We love scented soaps, but it is better to use them for other areas of the body.
Can pads or tampons cause a yeast infection?
At first glance, neither synthetic, tight-fitting clothing nor pads are directly responsible for vaginal yeast infections. So you can continue to wear your fitted little favorite faux leather skirt. Finally, some good news! With tampons and disposable pads, the situation is different. They contain chemicals that can disrupt the balance of the vagina and lead to irritation and discomfort, just like tight clothing. It’s best to wear reusable pads or Mutandine Mestruali made from organic cotton. They offer more freedom of movement and are less prone to leaks. What do you think?
What helps against vaginal yeast infection?
Fungal infections do not have serious consequences, but they are terribly annoying and rarely heal on their own. If you experience symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, it is best to consult your family doctor or a gynecologist. Counseling centers from Pro Familia can also support you in the treatment of this infection. Health services there are free for minors and young people with social difficulties.
A medical professional will then prescribe you antifungal vaginal suppositories for a very short period and an anti-itch ointment. A treatment with probiotics for vaginal use may also be suggested. In the case of recurrent yeast infections, you may take an antifungal orally for three to six months. Some treatments are available over the counter at pharmacies. However, we still recommend that you refrain from self-medication and consult a doctor!
