Ask any woman past puberty about the cause of a yeast infection, and she may not be able to tell you the answer. While she may not know the cause, she will know the signs and symptoms, the intense discomfort, and probably will know how to cure a yeast infection in the short term. But too many women (and some men) are unaware of the actual cause of a yeast infection. Unfortunately, those who don’t learn from the past are doomed to repeat it.
A yeast infection or Candida is simply an irritation of mucous membranes in the body, commonly affecting the vagina, intestines, skin or mouth. Infected areas become irritated and often swell up. The cause of yeast infections is an over-abundance of a fungus known as candidiasis. Thrush and vaginitis are also caused by this candida family of fungi.
What’s the real scoop on the causes of yeast infections?
To stop getting yeast infections, you must understand what causes them. Vulnerable areas of the body provide the candida fungus the opportunity to attack. Yeast infections are very often the result of a woman taking antibiotics or steroid medications. This type of medication is often responsible for the vagina developing too much candida. Keep in mind that the candida fungus is always present in the body in small quantities but becomes a yeast infection when there is an over-abundance. For some women they must use antibiotics and steroids to remain healthy. Women who know they’re prone to yeast infections when they must take these medications head off a candida overflow by using a yeast infection medication at the same time.
Hot weather and damp underclothing or swimsuits can also cause yeast infections. The candida fungus thrives in warm, damp environments. Perspiration in the vaginal area and/or wearing a damp swimsuit provides everything candida needs to flourish. In hot, damp weather, it is always a good idea to wear dry underwear, use wetness absorbing powder in your underwear and change your swimsuit immediately after swimming.
A well-known cause of yeast infections among women is wearing shorts or jeans that are too tight. Vaginal irritation is caused by the clothing being too tight. Candida thrives on irritated skin. Once any kind of irritation takes hold, so does candida! It makes a lot of sense for women who are susceptable to yeast infections to avoid tight-fitting clothing whenever possible.
Tight clothing is not the only source of irritations that cause yeast infections. Some soaps and bath products have been known to cause irritation for some women who have especially sensitive skin. While these products may feel and smell pleasant, these things aren’t worth causing a yeast infection. If a certain bath product has a history of causing you irritated skin then avoid them because we know that the candida loves irritations. Many will suggest a milk-bath product that only contains a small amount of soap.
Finally, it’s vitally important that women do not use douche products. Your physician will advise you that douches are not helpful or necessary in maintaining the health of your vagina. Nature will maintain your help and doesn’t need assistance from harsh douche products.
