Hey there! Let’s dive into the oh-so-annoying world of vaginal thrush, aka yeast infections. Most of us don’t like to think about it because a vaginal yeast infection is a type of fungal infection. Our bodies naturally have this yeast called candida, which causes vaginal yeast infections like that uninvited guest at your party who just won’t take the hint to leave.
Symptoms: The Uncomfortable Truth
If you have these symptoms, you could have an infection.
- Itchy business: It feels like you’ve got a relentless mosquito bite down there.
- Burning brigade: A sensation that’s akin to a tiny fire-breathing dragon setting up camp.
- Discharge dilemma: A thick, white vaginal discharge (think of cottage cheese, but without the smell).
- Red alert: Your vulva decides to look like a ripe tomato – red and swollen.
- In some cases, another symptom of a vaginal yeast infection can be pain during sex.
Now, let’s chat about what might roll out the welcome mat for this pesky fungus.
Risk Factors: The “Why Me?” List
Certain factors can increase your risk of vaginal infection. Some of those are:
- You are taking antibiotics, birth control pills or certain steroids.
- You are pregnant.
- You have a weak immune system.
- You have uncontrolled diabetes.
Getting a grip on these symptoms and risk factors isn’t just for kicks. It’s about taking charge of your intimate wellbeing before Candida gets too comfortable. If things down south start resembling a bad B-movie, it’s time to call in the pros – and by pros, we mean your doctor.
With some simple tweaks to your lifestyle and a little help from your doctor or nurse, you can kick thrush to the curb. While you’re at it, take a peek at our article on feminine hygiene for top tips to get back to feeling like the superwoman you are.
