Vaginal yeast infections are very common, affecting three in four women at least once over the course of their life. Just because they're common doesn't make them any less distressing for the woman involved however, particularly when she can't be sure that the symptoms are definitely caused by a yeast infection. However, the good news is that vaginal yeast infections can be easily treated, and the problems generally clear up within a week or two.
The importance of professional medical advice
If you're experiencing a vaginal yeast infection for the first time it's recommended that you seek expert medical help. Some people can feel wary about going to someone else with intimate health issues, but doctors and nurses are trained to deal with this issue sensitively, so there's no need to feel any apprehension about prioritising your health. Equally, however, if you are repeatedly getting vaginal yeast infections and treating them with over the counter products, you should get expert medical advice on how best to prevent it.
The symptoms of vaginal yeast infections
So what are the signs of a vaginal yeast infection? The most common symptoms of the infection are soreness and irritation around the vagina - you might find that tight fitting clothing is particularly uncomfortable. The vagina may appear redder than usual as a result of the irritation and it will also be quite itchy. This soreness makes it uncomfortable or even painful to have sex and, even more inconveniently, urinating. These symptoms are not exclusive to vaginal yeast infections however, so instead of self-diagnosing you should always get a professional medical opinion.
As well as general soreness, vaginal yeast infections also usually cause unusual vaginal discharge. This can sometimes have a slightly yeasty smell but in many cases it is entirely odourless. There's also no way to tell from the consistency, as this varies between women with the infection. This symptom can be very distressing for affected women. Again, vaginal discharge doesn't necessarily mean you have a yeast infection. It's also worth remembering that while vaginal discharge can be perfectly normal, if you're concerned it might be caused by a yeast infection it's never a bad idea to get an expert's opinion.
Making sure you're properly diagnosed
As many as 1 in 5 women don't respond to treatment for vaginal yeast infections, and it's thought that it is often because women do not actually have a yeast infection. They might actually be affected by bacterial vaginosis for example, or an STI which presents with similar symptoms.
Because the symptoms of vaginal yeast infections can be similar to those of other infections it's advisable to see a doctor or nurse to make sure the treatment you're using is effective. The doctor or nurse can carry out a test to ensure that the symptoms are definitely caused by a yeast infection, making sure you get treated appropriately. These tests are simple - the vagina is swabbed and the cell samples are examined under a microscope. Sometimes results are available immediately, allowing you to get peace of mind and immediate treatment.
Written by Kat Kraetzer, an experienced blogger working in the health-care industry for many years
