Yeast infection is common in women. 75 percent of women experience a yeast infection at least once in their lifetime.
It is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus candida albicans in the vagina, causing thick white discharge, pain, sensitivity, and redness. It’s not particularly pleasant.
But if you seem to be getting chronic yeast infections all the time, pay attention to these 5 potential causes of reoccurring yeast infections every woman serious about her vaginal health should know.
1. You are pregnant
Being pregnant may not necessarily be fun if a woman is prone to yeast infections during pregnancy. But be comforted that it is common. Pregnancy often prompts an uptick in candida albicans in the vagina, because it happens to have more to devour.
The fungus that causes yeast infections needs a safe, warm environment to flourish and it seems that pregnancy’s hormonal changes shift the balance of the vagina, introducing higher levels of glycogen, a type of sugar.
Higher levels of estrogen in your body prompt glycogen levels to blossom and yeast infections can fester.
2. You have switched birth control pills
The reason lies in the estrogen. Estrogen levels are related to a good yeast environment, and if you switch to a combined pill which combines estrogen with progestin and spike your estrogen levels, you may discover that a higher rating of thrush starts to bug your life.
3. You have untreated type 2 Diabetes
Elevated blood sugars that appear in the mucus of the vagina and vulva serve as an excellent medium for yeast infection. When you don’t treat your type-2 diabetes, you become vulnerable to some very nasty side effects in your underwear.
4. You wear tight, synthetic clothing
Tight, non-breathable clothing like synthetic leggings or underwear contribute to a yeast-friendly environment. Invest in free, cotton panties and underwear.
5. You use products that irritate your vagina
Stop washing your vagina with scented products. Using vaginal deodorant may cause irritation and potentially prompt yeast infections.
The risk is that bringing scented products in contact with vaginal balance may alter its chemistry, creating a more fertile breeding ground for yeast infections.
You can wash your parts, but steer clear of anything that makes you reek of scents. Wash your vagina with just water and you will be fine.
