Statistically it is reported that at least 75% of the population will get a yeast infection at some time in their lives. That is all people, both men and women, as despite the misconception of a yeast infection being a vaginal and therefore female problem, it can happen anywhere and on anyone. The skin, the penis, the mouth, breasts, are all other places a yeast infection can occur.
The key point about yeast infections is that they are not something you pick up from somewhere or someone. They are caused by a fungus that already lives on you in small numbers. When a trigger leads to imbalance and the fungus, called Candida, can overgrow, a yeast infection happens. There are several species of candida that can cause yeast infections but the main one is candida albicans. The symptoms that are caused can vary, how severe the infection is can vary, even how it responds to treatment varies from person to person.
It is usually an external trigger that causes most forms of yeast infections. A diet high in sugar, clothing that is too tight or too many synthetic materials, not drying properly, even the soap or products you use are all factors. There are also environmental factors such as climate, and medications, such as steroids and antibiotics.
Symptoms of a yeast infection include burning, soreness, itching, pain during sex, unusual vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese that is often odorless but can have a yeasty smell. Even though a yeast infection is not classed as an STD on rare occasions it can be passed on during sex to your partner, so either abstain until successfully treated or use a condom.
If your condition is severe your doctor may want to prescribe an anti-fungal treatment for you, but there are natural natural yeast infection treatment options that can be very effective for some cases. They are easy, affordable and unlike drugs are free of unwanted side effects. You also avoid building up a tolerance to medicated treatments. Make sure to identify what triggered your yeast infection in the first place so that you can avoid a re-occurrence.
Discover more about candida and xylitol – also, learn how to use echinacea for treating yeast infections.