From the Guidelines
Vaginal yeast infections are primarily caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans, which naturally exists in the vagina but can multiply excessively under certain conditions, as confirmed by the most recent study in 2022 1. The causes of vaginal yeast infections can be multifaceted, including:
- Antibiotic use, which kills beneficial bacteria that normally keep yeast in check
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation, or when using hormonal contraceptives
- Uncontrolled diabetes, as elevated blood sugar creates an ideal environment for yeast growth
- Weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV or medications like steroids
- Tight, non-breathable clothing that creates warm, moist conditions favorable for yeast proliferation Other contributing factors include:
- Douching, which disrupts vaginal pH balance
- Using scented feminine products that irritate vaginal tissues
- Sexual activity, though yeast infections aren't typically considered sexually transmitted According to the 2022 study, the diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis can be made clinically when a woman presents with symptoms of pruritus, irritation, vaginal soreness, external dysuria, and dyspareunia, often accompanied by a change in vaginal discharge 1. To prevent yeast infections, it is recommended to:
- Wear cotton underwear
- Avoid douching
- Promptly change out of wet clothing
- Maintain good hygiene
- Consider taking probiotics, especially when using antibiotics If symptoms like itching, burning, abnormal discharge, or pain during urination or intercourse occur, over-the-counter antifungal treatments like miconazole (Monistat) or fluconazole (Diflucan) can effectively treat most infections, though recurrent infections may require prescription-strength medication or investigation of underlying causes, as suggested by the 2022 study 1.
From the Research
Causes of Vaginal Yeast Infections
The causes of vaginal yeast infections can be attributed to various factors, including:
- Host-related factors such as pregnancy, hormone replacement, uncontrolled diabetes, immunosuppression, antibiotics, glucocorticoids use, and genetic predispositions 2
- Behavioral risk factors including use of oral contraceptives, intrauterine device, spermicides and condoms, and some habits of hygiene, clothing, and sexual practices 2
- The disturbance of the balance between Candida vaginal colonization and host environment by physiological or nonphysiological changes 2
Risk Factors
Several risk factors have been proposed as predisposing factors for vaginal yeast infections, including:
- Immunocompromised state, such as in HIV/AIDS patients or individuals undergoing chemotherapy or treatment with immunosuppressive agents 3
- Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis 3
- Use of certain medications, such as glucocorticoids 2
Microbiological Factors
The microbiological factors that contribute to vaginal yeast infections include: