Yeast infections occur when the normal yeast (usually Candida species, especially Candida albicans) that naturally live in the vagina or on the skin grow out of control. This overgrowth disrupts the normal balance of yeast and bacteria, leading to infection
. Several factors can cause this imbalance and trigger a yeast infection:
- Hormonal changes such as those during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, or from taking birth control pills or other hormone therapies
- Antibiotic use , which kills healthy bacteria that normally keep yeast growth in check
- Weakened immune system due to illness or medications, making it harder to control yeast growth
- Uncontrolled diabetes , which increases sugar levels that promote yeast growth
- Irritants like douching, vaginal sprays, soaps, powders, deodorants, or tight synthetic clothing that can disrupt the vaginal environment
- Sexual activity can sometimes trigger yeast infections by altering genital chemistry or through oral-genital contact, though yeast infections are not classified as sexually transmitted infections
- Warm, humid conditions and skin damage can also promote yeast overgrowth
In summary, yeast infections result from an overgrowth of Candida yeast when the natural balance of yeast and bacteria is disturbed by factors like antibiotics, hormonal changes, immune status, diabetes, irritants, or sexual contact
