A vulvovaginal yeast infection is usually caused by a “candida” a type of fungus. Affected women have irritation and itching of the vulva, and particular cottage cheese like discharge.
Diagnosis is made by taking patient’s history, performing exam and either examining discharge under microscope or sending a swab to a lab and testing it there. There is a test that checks for yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and gonorrhea and chlamydia since vaginal irritation and discharge can be caused other conditions.
Yeast infections happen when fungus that is usually present in the vagina and the gut over grows due to certain conditions. Medicines (especially antibiotics), stress, change in normal vaginal pH and change in balance of bacteria can cause that.
Treatment administered by taking antifungal pills orally or using topical vaginal medications. Probiotics help to balance normal flora, so they are part of a treatment and prevention of yeast infections.
