Yeast Infection

Yeast infection or vaginitis is a common infection caused by yeast, or a fungus scientifically referred to as candida. Most women are likely to have an occasional bout of  yeast infection, a common cause of vaginal discharge that is usually whitish and thick, like cottage cheese. It usually causes itchiness, redness or pain around the vaginal area, including the vulva (vulvitis).

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of yeast infection or vaginitis include:

• Itchiness, redness or pain around the vaginal and vulva (vulvitis)
• Whitish, cottage cheese-like, thick vaginal discharge
• Burning sensation or soreness
• Pain during sexual intercourse and/or urination

Treatment

A yeast infection may clear up on its own, but see your doctor if the symptoms persist. In most cases, you will be prescribed oral or topical antifungal medications or antifungal vaginal tablets or suppositories to soothe the discomfort, although oral antifungal medications are not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may take up to two weeks for the treatment to work, and your doctor may also prescribe the same treatment for your partner to prevent re-infection.