I think I have a yeast infection. How did I get it and why?

By Kendall @ Planned Parenthood | Sept. 28, 2011, 2:52 p.m.

I think I have a yeast infection. How did I get it and why?

Yeast infections are a type of vaginitis, an irritation of the vagina or vulva. They’re caused when a yeast called candida grows too much. Most healthy women have yeast in their vaginas, but an “overgrowth” can cause irritation of the vagina and the vulva. Yeast can grow too much when your vagina’s normal condition is changed by certain antibiotics, diabetes, pregnancy, a weak immune system, normal changes in your hormone levels, or contact with a sex partner. Yeast infections are very common and easily treated, and many women have yeast infections more than once. They are rarely serious, but they can be annoying and uncomfortable.

Your health care provider can diagnose yeast infections or other types of vaginitis, and prescribe treatment based on your symptoms. Learn more about yeast infections and vaginitis.

Tags: yeast infection, vaginitis