About Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are caused by an imbalance of “good” vs. “bad” bacteria in the body. Typically, an overrun of “Candida Albicans” is the culprit for what most people label as a “vaginal yeast infection”. It’s also referred to as candidiasis, or even modilia. Other types of yeast infections include thrush, and male yeast infections on the penis.
Some yeast infections are recurring, while others seem to be triggered by certain foods, or soaps. Antibiotics are also a very common cause of yeast infections, as the purpose and design of an antibiotic is to kill bacteria. All of it. Good and bad. And just like in life, the bad takes over quite easily if nothing is there to prevent it from overrunning the system.
Tight and dirty clothes that keep moisture in also tend to cause bacteria growth in the genital area, providing a nice warm place for the culture to grow.
Sugar and other diet related items can also lead to an imbalance of bacteria in the system.
**Sexual activity involving any infected part, whether vaginal yeast infection, thrush, or penile yeast infection should cease until all symptoms are gone. This also includes the basic use of tampons, douches, and keeping pads changed frequently.
Yeast Infection Treatments
There are several different options for treating a yeast infection.
Make sure, first off, that your symptoms are in fact due to a yeast infection, and not a urinary tract infection.
Some are over-the-counter products, promoted and created by pharmaceutical companies.
Others are do-it-yourself type home remedies to treat yeast infections.
Of course, the best treatment is prevention – eat yogurt and/or a good probiotic to keep your bacteria levels in harmony.
Gentian Violet (warning: stains!, possible allergy) works well for thrush on the nipples, but also used for genital yeast infections.
I hope this little mini explanation of yeast infections, common causes, treatments, and confusions helps you out just a little. I know that yeast is a nasty thing to have.
Good Luck!
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