causes of vaginal yeast factors

Factors that increase your risk of developing a yeast infection include:

Antibiotic use. Yeast infections are common in women who take antibiotics. Broad-spectrum antibiotics — those that are effective against a wide range of bacteria — kill healthy bacteria in your vagina, which can lead to the overgrowth of yeast.
Increased estrogen levels. Yeast infections appear to occur more frequently in women with increased estrogen levels — for instance, in women who are pregnant, those taking high-dose estrogen birth control pills or those taking estrogen hormone therapy.
Uncontrolled diabetes. In women who have diabetes, those with poorly controlled blood sugar levels are more likely to develop yeast infections than are women who have diabetes under control.
Impaired immune system. Women with lowered immunity — such as from corticosteroid therapy or HIV infection — are more likely to get yeast infections.
Sexual activity. Although yeast infections aren't considered sexually transmitted infections, one way the candida organism can be introduced into your vagina is through sexual contact.

Overview
A jock with athlete’s foot. A baby with thrush. A woman with a vaginal yeast infection. All three people have fallen prey to a fungal infection, which can occur in several places on our bodies. Fungi are microorganisms characterized by a substance in their cell wall called chitin.

Some fungi, like many types of mushrooms, are edible. Others, like aspergillus, can be extremely dangerous when they infect our bodies and lead to life-threatening diseases. In between are many other types of fungi that are capable of causing infections in our lungs, skin and nails.

Part 2 of 7: Types
Types of Fungal Infection
A fungal infection is also known as mycosis. Although most fungi are harmless to humans, some of them are capable of causing disease under specific conditions. Fungi reproduce by releasing spores that can be picked up by direct contact or even inhaled. That’s why fungal infections often affect the lungs, skin, or nails. Fungi can also penetrate the skin to affect your organs and cause a whole body systemic infection. Some common fungal infections include:

Athlete’s Foot

Some fungi, called dermatophytes, thrive in the warm and humid area between the toes and particularly common among athletes. Athlete’s foot causes itching, scaling, peeling, or cracking of the skin.

Jock Itch

Dermatophytes can also affect the groin area, producing an itchy fungal skin infection. It’s mostly a problem for men and boys, but women can suffer from the infection too.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection that typically affects the skin and scalp. It usually starts as a reddish, itchy, and scaly rash. Over time, it gets larger and forms a red ring.

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a very common fungal infection of the nail and nail bed. It usually starts as a small light-colored spot on the nail. As it spreads deeper, it changes the shape and color of the nail, and the nail becomes thicker and more brittle. It is often painful and recurrent.

Candidiasis Albicans

Candida albicans is a specific fungi that can infect the mouth, vagina, stomach and urinary tract.

Other Opportunistic Organisms

Some fungal organisms don’t cause infection in humans, but do cause sickness in people with suppressed immune systems.

Part 3 of 7: Causes
What Causes Fungal Infections?
Fungal infections are contagious and can spread from one person to another. But humans do have protections against fungi. For one, almost every part of the human body has non-disease causing bacteria that protect us from fungal infections. These bacteria deprive harmful fungi of space and nutrients, thereby keeping them in check. Secondly, even if fungi do manage to colonize the skin, the body’s immune system can often fight them off. High acidity levels in some environments such as the vagina provide another layer of protection.

But not all of the body’s defense mechanisms are infallible. In patients who are immune-suppressed for example, the immune system is unable to fight fungal infection adequately. In addition, prolonged use of antibiotics destroys both helpful bacteria, allowing fungi to colonize the skin and mucous. In postmenopausal women, hormonal changes reduce the acidity of their vagina, making them more vulnerable to vaginal yeast infections.

Part 4 of 7: Risk Factors
What Are The Risk Factors For Developing Fungal Infections?
Dampness and Humidity

Sweating profusely or working in a warm and humid environment can increase your risk for a fungal infection. Fungi need a warm and moist environment to grow.

Walking barefoot in damp places such as gyms, locker rooms, and showers can also increase your risk. These public places are often rich in fungal spores and can lead to a fungal infection.

Poor Blood Circulation

Any condition that causes poor blood circulation in the skin can lead to infection. Poor

vaginal yeast infection

A vaginal yeast infection is a type of vaginitis — inflammation of the vagina — characterized by vaginal irritation, intense itchiness and vaginal discharge. A vaginal yeast infection affects your vagina and the tissues at the opening to your vagina (vulva).

Vaginal yeast infection — also called vaginal candidiasis — is very common. As many as 3 out of 4 women experience a yeast infection at some point in their lifetimes. Many women experience two or more yeast infections.

A vaginal yeast infection isn't considered a sexually transmitted infection, although the fungus that causes the condition can be spread through oral-genital contact. Simple treatment is usually effective, unless you have recurrent yeast infections — four or more in a single year. In that case, you may need a longer course of therapy and a maintenance plan.Yeast infection symptoms can range from mild to moderate and include:

Itching and irritation in the vagina and at the entrance to the vagina (vulva)
A burning sensation, especially during intercourse or while urinating
Redness and swelling of the vulva
Vaginal pain and soreness
Thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance
Complicated yeast infection

You might have a complicated yeast infection if:

You have severe signs and symptoms, such as extensive redness, swelling and itching that leads to the development of tears or cracks (fissures) or sores
You have recurrent yeast infections — four or more in a single year
Your infection is caused by a type of candida other than Candida albicans
You're pregnant
You have uncontrolled diabetes
You have lowered immunity due to use of certain medications or a condition such as HIV infection
When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if:

This is the first time you've experienced yeast infection symptoms
You're not sure whether you have a yeast infection
Your symptoms don't go away after self-treating with over-the-counter antifungal vaginal creams or suppositories
You develop other symptoms

treat the itch in her pussy

vaginal itching.

Every woman is familiar with the feminine hygiene aisle at grocery and drug stores alike, and every man knows to never go down one of those aisles. These aisles are huge and full of products for issues that men and women didn't even know were possible. It can be a scary aisle but it's one that every woman has been down at least once in her lifetime and if it was only once, it was most likely for vaginal itching. If this is true consider yourself lucky, it could be a much worse. The truth is that vaginal itching is much more common than men and women care to realize, mainly because its and embarrassing issue that no one wants to admit to having. But the fact that you are reading this and that there is an entire shelf on the aisle dedicated to relieving vaginal itching, means its obviously an issue that gets a lot of attention from women. Thankfully symptoms of an itchy vagina are not usually signs of a serious condition such as a sexually transmitted disease. It is something that can be pretty easily treated, and is most likely due to having bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection.

The first thing a woman does when experiencing vaginal itching for the first time is hits the feminine hygiene aisle only to be overwhelmed with the plethora of products that promise to relive the condition. However if you are reading this article it is most likely because you've tried the over the counter stuff, it only worked temporarily and you're too embarrassed to talk to your doctor so you did what anyone would do, you googled vaginal itching and here we are. Well you've come to the right place, I'm gonna set this common and mistreated issue straight.

Stop treating the symptoms... treat the cause.

You've tried the local grocery or drug store over the counter remedies, but now your itching is back. This is because pretty much every product out there is designed to treat the symptoms (itching) and not the actual cause of the issue. The cause of the issue is simple, your body's ph is out of wack, which has allowed harmful bacteria to overtake the good bacteria that is in your vagina. The "good bacteria" also known as normal flora has been overtaken by harmful bacteria (which can come from many sources, more on that later) and causes a bacterial or yeast infection within the vagina which causes symptoms of vaginal itching, vaginal odor, vaginal burning and vaginal discharge. There are many reasons that your body's ph can be out of wack, which is a whole other discussion in itself which includes douching, antibiotics and even diet.

What you'll find in the drug stores will anti-itch creams, lotions and sprays and though these will make the itching subside initially they can actually cause the issue to get much worse if you irritate the delicate skin that is the vagina. Many women will use these store bought products and think they are curing themselves of an itchy vagina, and then think their issue has come back a few days later. The truth is it was never cured in the first place. In order to cure an itchy vagina you must restore the body's ph levels to normal where normal flora can restore and take back over the area of the vagina that is infected by harmful bacteria. The easiest way to restore your body's ph levels is to first eliminate what it is that is causing the imbalance in the first place. You'll then seek products and foods that help the body regain a normal ph balance. The best supplements are all naturalvaginal itching remedies. Products like these contain all natural herbs that are fantastic at taking ph levels that are too acidic and balancing them out to a neutral level
.

vaginal itching

Vaginal itching is a tingling or uneasy irritation of the skin of the vagina and the surrounding area (vulva). The itching may cause a desire to scratch the affected area.

Causes

Common causes of vaginal itching include:

• Chemical irritants such as detergents, fabric softeners, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, and contraceptive foams or jellies.
• Menopause. A drop in the hormone estrogen causes vaginal dryness.
• Stress may increase vaginal itching and make you more susceptible to infections.
• Vaginal yeast infection
• Vaginitis. Vaginitis in girls before puberty is common. If a young girl has a sexually transmitted vaginal infection, however, sexual abuse must be considered and addressed.

Other possible, but less common, causes of vaginal itching include:

• Precancerous skin conditions of the vulva
• Pinworms (a parasite infection mainly affecting children)

Home Care

To prevent and treat vaginal itching:

• Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble bath.
• Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches.
• Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.
• Cleanse the area by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.
• Eat yogurt with live cultures or take Lactobacillus acidophilustablets when using antibiotics. Check with your doctor.
• Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use plain, unscented soap.
• Keep your blood sugar under good control if you have diabetes.
• Lose weight if you are overweight.
• Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from synthetic materials. For infants and toddlers, change diapers often.

If you are sure that you have a yeast infection, try over-the-counter creams or vaginal suppositories. See: Vaginal yeast infection

For itching related to menopause, your health care provider may consider estrogen cream or tablets to insert vaginally. See: Vaginal dryness

Teach children to resist and report any attempted sexual contact by another person. Do not try to remove any foreign object from a child's vagina. Take the child to a health care provider right away for removal.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider right away if:

• You have increased thirst or appetite, unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, or fatigue -- these may be signs of diabetes.
• You have pelvic or lower abdominal pain or fever.

Call your health care provider if:

• You have blisters or ulcers on your vagina or vulva.
• You have burning with urination or other problems urinating.
• You have unusual vaginal bleeding, swelling, or discharge.
• Your partner also has symptoms or you think you may have a sexually transmitted infection.
• Your symptoms get worse, last longer than 1 week, or keep coming back despite self-care.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your doctor will examine you, including doing a pelvic exam, and ask questions to help diagnose the cause of your vaginal itching. These questions may include:

• When did the itching begin?
• Have you had it before?
• Is the itching severe?
• Does it limit your activities?
• Where exactly is the itching? On the inside of the vagina or on the outside (vulva) as well?
• How often do you bathe or shower?
• Do you use scented soap, scented or colored toilet paper, or bubble bath?
• Do you frequently swim or participate in water sports? Do you change your clothes soon after such activities?
• Do you wear cotton panties or synthetic ones?
• Do you wear tight pants or tight pantyhose?
• Do you use douches or feminine hygiene spray?
• Are you sexually active? Do you use contraception? What type?
• Does anything make you feel better?
• Does anything make you feel worse?
• Have you tried any over-the-counter creams? Which ones?
• Do you have any other symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding, swelling, rash, or pain on urination?
• Do you have a personal or family history of diabetes?
• What medications do you take?
• What is your menstrual history? How old were you when your periods began? How often do your periods usually come? How long do they generally last?
• Do you have any allergies?

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• Culture and microscopic exam of vaginal discharge
• Pap smear
• Skin biopsies of the vulvar area
• Urine and blood studies (including hormone levels)

The health care provider may prescribe drugs, such as:

• Antibiotics for bacterial vaginal infections, including sexually transmitted diseases
• Antifungal drugs for yeast infections
• Benzodiazepines or antihistamines for nighttime relief
• Ointments containing hormones
• Steroid creams or lotions to reduce inflammation

References

Biggs WS, Williams RM. Common gynecologic infections. Prim Care. 2009 Mar;36(1):33-51,

Superficial fungal infections. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 13.

Eckert LO, Lentz GM. Infections of the lower genital tract: vulva, vagina, cervix, toxic shock syndrome, HIV infections. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 22.

Vaginal Itching Before Period

Dealing with a vaginal itch can be very frustrating, but there is no need to panic if this happens a few days before your period. This itching is often accompanied with vaginal dryness. You may also experience burning around the vaginal wall, which might worsen with walking or physical activities. For some, this itchy, burning sensation can begin as early as 10 days before your period. For others, this may only occur for the duration of the period. This is completely normal and rarely a cause for concern. The symptoms can be relieved with basic preventive measures, such as proper tampon selection and ointments.

However, this itch may be indicative of an underlying infection. You should consult your physician if this itch does not subside after the end of your period.

Causes of Vaginal Itching

There are two types of vaginal itch:

• Normal vaginal itch: This occurs in most women around the time of their period. This usually happens due to a drop in estrogen levels, which leads to the thinning and inflammation of the vaginal wall. It is normal for this to be accompanied by a stinging sensation around the vaginal opening and lower third of vagina.
• Abnormal vaginal itch: This condition is caused by relatively less common conditions such as infections or STDs. The symptoms are much more intense and last longer than normal vaginal itch. This kind of itch is often accompanied by a reddish brown vaginal discharge.

Some other common causes of vaginal itching are:

• Allergies - Allergic reactions to specific substances referred to as irritants/allergens can cause vaginal itching. Allergens may be present in many common items like detergents, ointments, and fabric softeners. In some cases, you may even be allergic to the chemicals used in tampons and sanitary pads. If you suspect this, consult with doctor to determine the right variety for you.
• Menopause - Menopause is a time in woman's life when she stops menstruating. This causes estrogen levels to drop, which indirectly leads to vaginal dryness and itchiness. Menopause can also be caused by secondary treatments like chemotherapy or hysterectomy.
• Hormonal fluctuations - Fluctuations of hormones (mainly estrogen) are often responsible for vaginal dryness as well as itching. Vaginal wall tissues have estrogen receptors and the hormone estrogen keeps them healthy, supple, and able to be lubricated. Any fluctuation in estrogen levels in the body, which often occurs around the time of your period, can cause vaginal itching.
• Tight clothing - Wearing uncomfortably tight leads to excess perspiration especially near closed regions like vagina, armpits, etc. The sweat will not evaporate from the skin fast enough, which can lead to itching around these regions. Prolonged wear of tight clothing can also lead to infections. Try wearing loose and pure cotton clothing to relieve your symptoms.
• Stress - Stress is also known to exacerbate the itching and make the vagina more susceptible to infections. Try not to think about the itching too much and instead keep yourself busy.
• Other causes - Other common causes of vaginal itching include a precancerous skin condition in the vulva tissues or a parasitic infection, which mainly affects children.

Home Remedies for Vaginal Itching

If you feel that your symptoms are indicative of a normal vaginal itch, you may want to follow some self-care tips to help reduce or avoid this itching.

• Choose cotton cloth and keep clean - Avoid panties and pantyhose made of synthetic fabric materials. Stick to pure cotton clothing and undergarments to avoid any form of skin irritation. This also goes for things like bed sheets or any other form of fabric that you frequently use. Keep special clothing like bathing/exercise suits clean and avoid long use.
• Select right hygienic products - Carefully select tampons and sanitary pads. Some are scented and often contain chemicals to avoid infection. People susceptible to allergies might experience a vaginal itch as a result of contact with these substances.
• Keep the vaginal area clean - Properly cleaning and cleansing the region from vagina to anus after urinating or having a bowel movement is essential to maintaining proper hygiene. Taking a shower instead of a bath can help you rinse away irritants that can be causing itchiness. In some cases using a medicated douche can help rinse away irritants that are causing your vagina to itch.
• Maintain bacterial balance - The healthy functioning of the vaginal and vulva wall depends on certain types of beneficial bacteria which help avoid infection. Eating yogurt with live cultures helps maintain this balance of bacteria. Make sure to avoid too many flavored yogurts and stick to plain ones with live cultures. If you are on antibiotics, you can consider taking Lactobacillus Acidophilus tablets to increase the presence of good bacteria in the vaginal area.
• Keep the vagina dry - If you suffer from diabetes, try to keep blood sugar under control. Increased glucose levels reduce water content in tissues, leaving them dry. The vaginal wall is one of the most sensitive tissues in the body, so it reacts to this reduced water content in the form of vaginal dryness and a subsequent itch.
• Ice the area - Applying an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth on the lips of the vagina can help soothe the itching. Leave this ice pack in place for about an hour, and then cover the area in witch hazel to prevent the itching from returning.
• Apply soothing products - Sprinkling talcum powder on the genitals can help relieve itching. Yogurt can also help reduce itching, particularly itching that is caused by a yeast infection. Immersing the vagina in a sitz bath containing a half cup apple cider vinegar and water can help rid your body of irritants that are harming the vagina. Keep your legs spread to allow this mixture to flow freely around your genitals.
• Consume the right foods - Eating probiotic yogurt and drinking plenty of water can also help the body flush away irritants that are causing vaginal itchiness.
• Avoid sex - If you are experiencing severe itchiness in the vagina, avoid having sex until the condition clears. The friction of sex can cause your condition to worsen or it can cause you to spread your infection to your sexual partner