Causes of Recurring Yeast Infections

Yeast infections can be challenging to cope with. As if it wasn't bad enough, there are some women who experience recurring yeast infections. When a woman experiences four or more recurring yeast infections a year, this is referred to as a condition called vulvovaginal candidiasis, according to the National Women's Health Information Center. It is estimated that about five percent of women experience this problem a year. Here are some of the things that you should know about the common causes of recurring yeast infections.

Antibiotic Use

Using antibiotics on a regular basis is one of the most common causes of recurring yeast infections. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, this is because antibiotics interfere with the vagina's natural "good" or protective bacteria, allowing yeast to grow instead. The yeast infection will generally clear up once you stop using antibiotics.

Diabetes

Diabetic women are more likely to experience recurring yeast infections than other women, according to the National Women's Health Information Center. The reason diabetes causes vulvovaginal candidiasis is due to high blood sugar levels. Yeast thrives on sugar. To reduce the risk of recurring yeast infections due to diabetes, be sure to keep blood sugar under control. Also note that this is one of the more common causes of penile yeast infections.

Weak Immune Systems

Women who have certain autoimmune diseases or otherwise weak immune systems are more likely to experience vulvovaginal candidiasis. Having HIV or AIDS increases your risk of having recurring yeast infections. Stress and illness both are thought to play a role in the development of yeast infections due to the weakening of the immune system.

Lifestyle Choices

Certain choices that a woman can make puts her at a greater risk of experiencing frequent yeast infections. Using oral contraceptives (birth control pills) and spermicidal creams or jellies increase the risk of vulvovaginal candidiasis. Douching, which interferes with the vagina's natural bacteria, can also cause a woman to experience recurring yeast infections. Women who wear tight underwear made from materials that are not cotton are more likely to experience vulvovaginal candidiasis. Wearing bathing suits or exercise clothes for extended periods of time and using Jacuzzis or hot tubs also increase the risk of recurring yeast infections, according to the National Women's Health Information Center.

If you experience yeast infections on a regular basis, the best thing that you can do is talk to your doctor. Vulvovaginal candidiasis is generally treated with antifungal medication. Remember that it is important to never self-diagnose yourself with a yeast infection. Other vaginal infections and sexually transmitted diseases can present similar symptoms.

Sources:

American Academy of Family Physicians, "Treatment of Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis."

National Women's Health Information Center, "Vaginal Yeast Infections."