What Causes Yeast Infections - And Why Did I Get It?

Did you know that recent studies show that seventy-five (75%) of all women gets to experience at least one vaginal yeast infection in her entire life? In fact, many women, especially those who are middle-aged or have undergone pregnancy, are on the look out whether or not they have yeast infection.

But what is really yeast infection? What causes yeast infections and why do women suffer from it? Is yeast infection acquired due to lifestyle practices or is it because of sexual transmission? These are some of the bothering questions that women ask.


According to medical experts, causes of yeast infections can be traced by an overgrowth of the normal fungi that lives in the vaginal area. The most common fungi is Candida albicans. This type of fungi is often found in the mouth, vagina and intestinal tract. When found in mouth, this is known as thrush and is even found in infants and people with a variety of health conditions. If found in vagina, then it is now known as yeast infection.

Here are the leading causes of yeast infections which occur among women and sometimes to men as well:

• Antiobiotics - We always think that taking antibiotics is the only solution. When people suffer from a simple infection such as sinusitis, we turn right away tp taking antibiotics. We often do this without even realizing that this may have side effects. Antibiotics may kill the “bad” bacteria but it also kills the good ones. Thus, disturbing the balance of the vaginal environment.
  
• Clothing - Women are always conscious about what they want to wear, whether it is for a romantic date, sporting event or attending a formal affair. Come to think of it, some women are even particular about what clothes to wear even if they are just staying at home. But did you know that this too, can cause yeast infection? So if you are the kind of woman who is fond of wearing fitting or skin-tight clothes, then beware! Yeast loves to flourish in these types of clothes especially when they are dirty, non-cotton or when not ironed well. This is because they trap heat and moisture. So just a tip, sleeping without underwear can be a good option to prevent yeast infection. If you cannot do this during daytime or during work, then maybe at least during bedtime is the best time to do it.
  
• Chemicals - Are you the type of woman who's fond of using scented soaps, feminine wash, scented pads and tampons or perfumed toilet papers? Ooops…you could be the next victim. Frequent use of these products can be harmful to your vagina. They contain a variety of chemicals that may disrupt the vaginal environment and causes imbalance. If you think you are currently doing these practices, then it’s high time for you to switch on using unscented or mild products.
  
• Sexual transmission - If you think you are active in your sex life, then it would be better to practice safer sex or better yet, you can always consult a medical expert who can advise you in its treatment. The said fungi (Candida) can still be transmitted through direct contact. You can also observe proper hygiene like washing your hands or changing underwear right after a sexual contact. In this way, you don’t only protect yourself but you also protect your partner from acquiring one.

Either way, no matter what causes it, it is important that you get yeast infection treatment as soon as you can.