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Thrush:
A Woman's Worst Nightmare
By Linda A. Annan
Many women do not like to discuss it; either because they are embarrassed or because they have no idea that a lot more women suffer from the same problem. As a woman you dread the times when such a discomfort accompanied by itching and burning occurs in public—it is called candidiasis, commonly known as yeast
infection or thrush.
This vaginal infection usually occurs as a result of bacteria overgrowth in the vagina, a part of the body known to house a wide variety of microorganisms. The acidic environment of a healthy vagina enables the bacteria to live in balance; it is when this balance is disrupted that causes one type of bacteria to grow too fast, leaving room for vaginal infections like candidiasis to set in. Yeast organisms are said to be present in everyone, but they are prevented from “overgrowth” by naturally occurring microorganisms in the body. It is reported that nearly 75% of all adult women have had at least one yeast infection in their lifetime and they generally do not pose grave dangers to your health. However, they can lead to more
serious problems if left untreated.
Yeast infections are fairly common and the good news is that they can be treated with over-the-counter medications or natural remedies. You must, however, consult a physician before trying any medication.
How do I recognize an infection?
Symptoms of a yeast infection include severe itching, soreness, burning, and irritation of the vagina and/or vulva (the outer layer of the vagina). Another sign could be a whitish or whitish-gray discharge similar to that of cottage cheese with a beer-like or baking bread smell. Painful urination is also common.
Although some vaginal infections are contracted sexually, most are not. Rather, the internal chemical balance of vaginal bacteria may be interrupted by:
• Antibiotics
• Tampons left in too long
• Birth control pills
• Douches
• Perfumed feminine hygiene sprays
• Tight, poorly ventilated clothing and underwear
• Topical antimicrobial agents (substances that slow or kill antibacterial activity)
• Loose bowel movements
• Weak immune system
Other high risk factors can be pregnancy and persons with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
9 useful tips for preventing vaginal infections like candidiasis or yeast infection:
1. Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
2. Keep the genital area clean
3. Thoroughly wash anything inserted in the vagina
4. Avoid tight jeans or tight panties
5. Wear cotton underpants, loose-fitting slacks and shorts.
6. Do not use harsh soaps or douches
7. Avoid scented tampons or pads and scented toilet paper
8. Avoid feminine hygiene sprays
9. Thoroughly clean barrier contraceptive devices.
Diagnosis and when to see a physician.
If you have never been diagnosed with a yeast infection, if you have diabetes, or if you are pregnant, it is recommended to consult your doctor to verify the cause of your symptoms. Since genital candidiasis shares similar symptoms with urinary tract infection, it is very important to see a doctor as you might have a different kind of infection that requires a specific treatment. Diagnosis usually involves a genital swab of the infected area, which will then be taken to the laboratory for testing.
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* All health information is intended to educate and must not be substituted for professional advice. Read Obaasema Terms of Use.
Resources:
The Doctors Book of Herbal Home Remedies: Cure Yourself with Nature's Most Powerful Healing Agents. US: Rodale, 2000
Turkington, Carol A., et al. The Unofficial Guide to Women's Health. CA: IDG, 2000
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/candidiasis_gen_g.htm#Top
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antimicrobial
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candidiasis
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