Published on Aug 22, 2023 | 2:36 PM
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Also called vaginal candidiasis, a vaginal yeast infection is a very common condition that causes itching, irritation, abnormal discharge, burning, and discomfort in and around the vagina and vulva.
Most women will experience at least one yeast infection during their lifetime. Some develop recurrent or chronic yeast infections, which may occur cyclically—often before the menstrual period—due to predictable hormonal shifts.
Yeast infections are most commonly caused by an overgrowth of Candida species, particularly Candida albicans. However, non-albicans species are increasingly recognized, especially in recurrent or treatment-resistant cases. Risk factors include diabetes (especially if poorly controlled), recent antibiotic use, pregnancy, estrogen exposure (including hormonal contraception or postmenopausal hormone therapy), immune suppression, and genetic susceptibility.
The vagina maintains a healthy microbiome made up of bacteria and fungi that normally coexist in balance. Protective bacteria—primarily Lactobacillus species—help maintain an acidic vaginal environment that prevents yeast from overgrowing.
A yeast infection occurs when this balance is disrupted and yeast are able to multiply beyond normal levels or penetrate deeper vaginal tissue layers. When harmful bacteria overgrow, the condition is called bacterial vaginosis (BV); when fungi overgrow, it is called vaginal candidiasis.
Antibiotic Use
Antibiotics reduce harmful bacteria—but they can also reduce beneficial Lactobacillus. When protective bacteria decline, yeast can multiply more easily.
Hormonal Changes
Estrogen increases glycogen in vaginal cells, which yeast use as fuel. This explains why yeast infections are more common during pregnancy, the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, and with estrogen-containing contraceptives.
Weakened Immune System
Conditions such as HIV, chemotherapy, chronic steroid use, or immunosuppressive medications reduce the body’s ability to regulate yeast growth.
Uncontrolled Diabetes
Elevated blood sugar levels increase glucose in vaginal secretions, creating an environment that favors Candida growth.
Douching and Vaginal Irritants
Douching, scented soaps, vaginal deodorants, and harsh cleansers disrupt vaginal pH and strip protective bacteria.
Tight or Non-Breathable Clothing
Synthetic fabrics and tight clothing trap heat and moisture, creating ideal conditions for yeast proliferation.
Sexual Activity
Yeast infections are not sexually transmitted, but sexual activity can disrupt vaginal pH, introduce yeast, and cause micro-irritation that facilitates overgrowth.
Poor Moisture Control
Remaining in wet clothing (swimsuits, sweaty workout gear) increases moisture and risk.
Yeast infections are more common during pregnancy and can occur during any trimester. Hormonal changes, immune modulation, and shifts in vaginal pH all contribute. Oral antifungal medications are generally avoided in pregnancy; treatment usually involves topical therapies.
Yeast infections are not classified as STIs. However, sexual contact can contribute indirectly—especially if a male partner has balanitis or carries yeast on the skin. Friction, semen exposure, pH changes, and tissue irritation can all increase risk.
Yes. Unwashed hands can introduce bacteria, yeast, or irritants that disrupt the vaginal microbiome or cause micro-abrasions, increasing susceptibility.
Diet alone does not directly cause yeast infections, but high sugar intake may contribute—especially in people with insulin resistance or diabetes.
Foods that may worsen susceptibility include:
Sugary foods and beverages
Refined carbohydrates
High-glycemic foods
Excess alcohol
Balanced nutrition and blood sugar control support vaginal health.
Intense vaginal or vulvar itching
Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge (usually odorless)
Burning with urination
Redness, swelling, or irritation
Pain during intercourse
External rash or skin irritation
Diagnosis may involve symptom review, pelvic exam, microscopy, or vaginal swab testing. In many uncomplicated cases, clinicians can diagnose based on symptoms alone—especially in telehealth settings when history is clear.
Most yeast infections respond quickly to antifungal therapy, including:
Fluconazole (Diflucan) – oral
Clotrimazole – topical
Terconazole – topical
Nystatin – topical
Using antifungals without an actual yeast infection may cause irritation and disrupt the microbiome.
Clean only the external vulva with mild, unscented soap
Never douche or wash inside the vagina
Wear breathable cotton underwear
Change out of wet clothing promptly
Manage blood sugar if diabetic
Limit irritants and scented products
Seek evaluation if infections are frequent, severe, or don’t respond to treatment
Mild infections may occasionally resolve on their own, but most benefit from treatment.
CallOnDoc offers same-day, private online care and treatment for yeast infections—quickly and discreetly from home.
English graduate and Call-On-Doc’s medical resource guide, Wayne C. Hahne is an experienced and passionate medical education content expert. Through diligent research, provider interviews and utilizing the industry's leading resources for wellness information, it is Mr. Hahne’s personal mission to educate the general public on medical conditions with in-depth and easy-to-understand written guides. Updated 12/24/2025
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