Understanding What Increases The Risk And Causes Of Getting A Yeast Infection

The vagina is a natural thriving ground for various microorganisms and it also maintains the equilibrium of these microorganisms. However, a particular strain of fungus known as Candida Albicanis disturbs this balance. This fungus can multiply whilst undetected and this results to a vaginal yeast infection. The equilibrium disruption can be caused by various reasons; hence these are also the factors in getting a yeast infection.

One of the known causes of yeast infection is the use of antibiotics. Though helpful in many ways, antibiotics can destroy the good bacteria that help to protect the vagina. Vaginal yeast infection usually takes place during or after the use of antibiotics, especially when it is used for other medical conditions such as strep throat. Aside from antibiotics, other medicines, particularly steroids can aggravate the infection.

Certain medical conditions can also trigger vaginal yeast infection. People with diabetes are highly susceptible to yeast infection since they have a lower glycogen store in their vaginal cells. Moreover, the rise of sugar content in the vagina also boosts the chances of developing a yeast infection. Furthermore, those with a weakened immune system such as those with due to HIV/AIDS, pregnancy, cancer, chemotherapy or anyone taking drugs that weaken the immune system are more prone to having a yeast infection.

Normal body changes such as ovulation, menopause, pregnancy, birth control pills and hormone therapy are also known factors in acquiring yeast infections. Clothing articles such as tight underwear or anything else made from materials other than cotton can increase the temperature, moisture and local irritation in the vaginal area which leads to an infection. Hygiene products such as douches, feminine sprays and tampons can cause irritation and scratches in the vagina that could cause yeast infections.

Risk Factors

Now that you know the causes of vaginal yeast infection, it is about time to consider the risk factors in developing a yeast infection. Some of these risk factors that are under your control include the improper use of antibiotics; poorly-controlled diabetes; wearing of tight-fitting and nonabsorbent pants or undergarments; use of feminine hygiene products such as talcs or perfumes in the vaginal area; douching; or the use of intrauterine devices.

Then as mentioned earlier, there are certain risk factors that are beyond your control due to natural changes in body chemistry. These includes an impaired immune system which disables the body to maintain a normal balance of organisms in the vagina; pregnancy which alters the hormone levels in your body and the balance of organisms in the vagina; and also having an undiagnosed diabetes which affects the normal balance of organisms in the vagina due to the abrupt rise in blood sugar levels.

While vaginal yeast infections are not sexually transmitted, you may still have an increased risk of an imbalance of the organisms as long as you also have risk factors for a sexually transmitted disease. Now that the low-down on having a yeast infection has been shared to you, you may then be able to keep yourself protected from acquiring this infection.