Women's Health

Tools & Resources

Font Size

Understanding Vaginal Yeast Infections -- the Basics

Vaginal yeast infections are very common. Approximately 75% of women will have a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime. Yeast infections, sometimes called candidiasis, develop where a moist environment encourages fungal growth, such as the genitals.

Recommended Related to Women

Top Women’s Health Stories of 2008: Readers’ Choice

Are you normal? That’s a question on a lot of women’s minds when it comes to personal health. It was also a good year for beating belly fat and finding ways to fight fatigue. Those topics are among the most viewed women’s health stories on WebMD for 2008. 5 Things You Didn't Know About Your Period How to Handle Embarrassing Problems 5 Home Remedy No-Nos Vaginal Problems That Affect Your Sex Life Banish the Bags Under Your Eyes ...

Read the Top Women’s Health Stories of 2008: Readers’ Choice article > >

What Causes a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Candida albicans causes 80% to 90% of vaginal yeast infections. This fungal organism, or yeast, thrives in the gastrointestinal tract, mucous membranes (vagina, mouth, nose), and skin. Normally, your body produces bacteria that keep Candida in check. But when fungal growth exceeds the body's ability to control it, a vaginal yeast infection can occur. This can happen when you're weakened by illness or upset by stress. A yeast infection is not a sexually transmitted disease.

Your chance of developing a vaginal yeast infection is increased if you take antibiotics or use hormone contraceptives containing estrogen and possibly, contraceptive diaphragms, intrauterine devices, and sponges. Women who are pregnant, have diabetes, or who have weak immune systems also are at higher risk of vaginal yeast infections.

About 10% to %20 percent of yeast infections is caused by nonalbicans Candida and is often resistant to the usual treatment options.

WebMD Medical Reference

View Article Sources Sources