A yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the fungus candida, most commonly candida albicans. The vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast and bacteria, and certain factors can disrupt this balance, leading to an overgrowth of yeast and causing an infection. Some of the causes and risk factors for yeast infections include:
- Antibiotic use, which can disrupt the balance of natural vaginal flora
- Pregnancy
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Impaired immune system
- Taking oral contraceptives or hormone therapy that increase estrogen levels
- Normal changes in hormone levels, like during the menstrual cycle
- Use of potential irritants such as douching washes, spermicide, soaps, powders, or deodorants
- Tight-fitting clothing and synthetic materials, such as bathing suits and sportswear
- Certain lifestyle risk factors, such as poor diet and stress
It's important to note that yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections, although there is an increased risk of vaginal yeast infection at the time of first regular sexual activity, and there is some evidence that infections may be linked to oral-genital sex
