Women have a lot to worry about. From taking care of their families to leading successful careers, the female plate always seems to be full. One thing that's probably not at the forefront of most women's minds is whether or not they might be getting a vaginal yeast infection, but this health condition can be a source of intense embarrassment and discomfort. It's important for all women to know the causes of vaginal yeast infection, and ways that they can treat a vaginal yeast infection if it does become a problem.

What Is A Chronic Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Because it is located so close to the body, and is so often warm and moist, the vagina is the perfect place for bacteria to grow. A vaginal yeast infection is the result of an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans, or yeast. When the fungus grows out of control, it can create painful irritation and itching around the vagina and vulva. If you think that a chronic vaginal yeast infection is something to be ashamed of, you should know that three out of every four women in the world will have a vaginal infection at least once in their lives.

Symptoms of a Vaginal Infection

It might be hard to know when you should be concerned that you might have a vaginal yeast infection. Because the most important symptoms of a chronic vaginal yeast infection are often just redness and irritation, it can be hard to know whether or not they are really caused by an overgrowth of yeast or not. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection that you should be on the lookout for:

• Pain during sex
• Burning, redness, and swelling of the vagina and the vulva
• Pain when peeing
• Soreness near the vagina or vulva
• A thick, white vaginal discharge similar to the consistency of cottage cheese (does not have a bad odor)
• A skin rash on the vagina

Most of the time, women will only experience one or two of these symptoms of chronic vaginal yeast infection at a time. If you are noticing symptoms that fit this description, you should visit your doctor or gynecologist right away.

Treating Causes of Vaginal Yeast Infection

If you've determined that you are indeed suffering from causes of vaginal infection, it's important to start treating it right away. In some cases, the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can be mistaken for a vaginal yeast infection when in fact they are caused by a sexually transmitted disease. Only a doctor can be sure of the difference. In most cases, your doctor will prescribe a cream or oral treatment that can be filed at your pharmacy.

Preventing a Vaginal Yeast Infection

You don't have to be constantly worried that you're going to get a vaginal yeast infection. Taking probiotic supplements can help improve the balance of good bacteria against bad bacteria from developing in your vagina, thus reducing the risk of developing a chronic vaginal yeast infection. If you want to experience better digestive health, and keep your bodily bacteria under control, consider a probiotic supplement.

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