Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) AKA "Yeast Infection"

by Adelaide G. Nardone, MD,
Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Candida albicans is a fungus normally found in small amounts in the vagina. However, when there is an overgrowth of the Candida, a yeast infection occurs. Risk factors for this include: antibiotic usage, binging on alcohol, wet undergarments/r excessive moisture, diabetes, pregnancy, birth control pills, genetic predisposition etc.

The most common symptoms of a yeast infection are itching and burning of the vulvovaginal area. This can be quite intense so Vagisil®Wipes can give welcome relief from the external itching, while you wait to see your healthcare provider or while treatment is under way. Women may also experience redness, swelling, pain with urination or painful intercourse. The vaginal discharge from yeast is sometimes described as "cottage cheese-like" because of its white and lumpy texture. There may be a "yeasty" odor.

In order to diagnose a yeast infection, your doctor will check your vaginal discharge and look under the microscope for the presence of yeast hyphae and buds. Your doctor may also test your vaginal pH. With yeast infections the pH is usually in normal range (< 4.5), which is not the case with Bacterial Vaginosis (BV).

If you think you have a yeast infection but are unsure or if it is the first time you have had these symptoms you should see a doctor. While many antifungal medications are available over-the-counter (OTC), women should be cautious in "self-treating". Most times women err in thinking it's yeast, when in fact it's something else. The Vagisil® Screening Kit can help to determine your vaginal pH.

Yeast Do's:

• Do use the Vagisil® Screening Kit at home to help determine is you have a yeast infection or something more
• Do seek medical advice if you are not sure what is causing your symptoms
• Do try to alleviate the external itching/burning and irritation with Vagisil Wipes to remove discharge and relieve itch
• Do wear cotton undergarments and keep the area clean and dry with the help of Vagisil® Powder
• Do cleanse with the gentle Vagisil® Wash

Yeast Don'ts:

• Don't scratch the area as this will only cause more skin damage
• Don't "self treat" with OTC anti-fungals unless you are sure of your diagnosis
• Don't ignore the problem

For more information go to: http://www.vagisil.com