Yeast infections primarily come from an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida , which normally lives harmlessly on the skin, in the mouth, throat, gut, and vaginal area. The most common species causing yeast infections is Candida albicans. In women, yeast infections occur when the natural balance between healthy bacteria and yeast in and around the vagina is disrupted. This disruption allows Candida yeast to multiply excessively, leading to infection. Factors that can cause this imbalance include:
- Use of antibiotics, which reduce healthy bacteria levels
- Hormonal changes such as during pregnancy, menstrual cycle, or hormonal contraceptive use
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- A weakened immune system
- Irritants like douching, soaps, powders, or deodorants
- Tight or synthetic clothing that creates warm, moist environments
- Stress and lack of sleep
- Sexual contact, which can sometimes alter vaginal flora, though yeast infections are not classified as sexually transmitted infections
Yeast infections can also occur on other body areas like the mouth (thrush) or skin when yeast overgrows due to similar imbalances or warm, humid conditions
. In summary, yeast infections come from an overgrowth of naturally occurring Candida yeast when the normal microbial balance is disturbed by various internal or external factors.
