Yeast

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What is a yeast infection?

Vaginal yeast is common and normal. In some women, an overgrowth of yeast occurs from time to time and may require treatment. It is not generally considered to be sexually transmitted although men can get yeast infections.

What might upset the normal balance of organisms in the vagina?

• Being sexually active
• Taking antibiotics or steroid medication
• Being pregnant
• Having poorly controlled diabetes
• Diet high in sugar and starch
• Weakened immune system such as having HIV

How can you tell if you have a yeast infection?

Women often notice:

• a thick, white, clumpy, odourless discharge from the vagina
• pain during sex
• pain when peeing
• itching, burning, irritation and/or swelling around the vaginal area

Men might notice:

• Reddish rash, irritation or burning at the tip of the penis
• Rash that spreads to the shaft of the penis, scrotum or groin area

How do you get tested for yeast infection?

Your health care provider can examine you. For women a swab is taken of the vaginal discharge.

How is yeast infection treated?

Treatment is only needed if you are having symptoms such as increased discharge or discomfort.

Both men and women can use antifungal cream. Women can also use vaginal suppositories or oral pills to treat and cure a yeast infection. These are available in pharmacies without a prescription.

Herbal remedies (e.g. lactobacillus acidophilus capsules) may help to keep yeast in-check and are available at a health food store.

Pregnant women should consult their health care provider or a pharmacist before using yeast
treatments.

Note: Vaginal medication may weaken the latex in condoms or diaphragms causing them to break while treatment is being used and for up to three days after completing treatment.

Is follow-up necessary?

You will need follow-up if you continue to have symptoms after your treatment is finished or if you have frequent yeast infections (four or more per year).

If you think you might be at risk for a sexually transmitted infection (STI) consider having testing.

How do you protect yourself?

• Wear cotton underwear
• Avoid tight fitting clothing such as panty hose or tight pants
• Remove your wet swim suit as soon as possible
• Avoid using bath bubbles/oil, hygiene sprays, douches, and deodorant tampons or pads
• Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet
• Eat a balanced diet that is low in sugar
• Lactobacilli preparations (a supplement found in a Health Food Store or in some brands of yogurt) may help restore normal vaginal balance
• Consider getting immunized for hepatitis B and HPV

Reference:

Canadian Guidelines for Sexually Transmitted
Infections (2008)