How to Tell If You Have a Yeast Infection

Yeast infections aren't exactly the most savory topic to discuss, but considering that 75 percent of women will have one during their lives, it's important to know something about their symptoms, treatment and prevention.

Symptoms

First-time sufferers may be wondering if what they have is actually a yeast infection. Most over-the-counter remedies suggest visiting a doctor to be sure, and while I'm not posing as a medical expert, I would venture to say that if you have common sense, then you don't need a clinical consultation.

The symptoms of a yeast infection are pretty cut and dry: you will experience itching and burning, both inside the vagina and the surrounding external area. You will notice redness, and white, clumpy discharge. This won't smell bad, it will just smell like bread baking. This is because a yeast infection is caused by the overgrowth of the fungus or yeast Candida that is normally present in the vagina in small quantities.

If the discharge is not white, then what you have is not a yeast infection, and you should see a doctor. But if your discharge is white, clumpy, smells something like bread and causes serious itching and burning, you almost certainly have a yeast infection.

Treatment

Chances are if you have a yeast infection you will experience significant discomfort and will want the quickest cure possible. Many over-the-counter remedies are available, including one-day treatments that involve inserting anti-fungal medicines into the vagina. Monistat makes a one-day treatment that supposedly can be inserted during the day or at night. However, I would not recommend inserting it during the day, as you will likely be up and walking around and therefore a significant amount of the medicine could leak out instead of treating your infection. Instead, insert the treatment before going to bed to ensure that a minimal amount leaks out.

Personally I would recommend the three-day treatments available over the counter, as these are not such a one-time, hit-or-miss proposition. You will insert the anti-fungal medicine before bed for three nights, and should notice alleviation of symptoms within a few days. The symptoms should be gone within a week of beginning the treatment; if they are not, you should probably see a doctor.

There are also some natural treatments for yeast infections, but I'm not personally familiar with them. One involves eating unsweetened yogurt -- which is loaded with good bacteria -- to bring the bacteria levels within the vagina back into balance. The yogurt must be unsweetened because sugar actually promotes the growth of Candida, which you are trying to slow down. I've never tried this method of getting rid of a yeast infection, so I"m not sure how fast it works, or if it works at all.

Prevention

Yeast infections occur when the normal balance of bacteria within the vagina is disrupted. Moisture promotes the growth of more bacteria, so be sure to wear reasonably loose clothing that allows for some breathing room, and beware of staying in a wet bathing suit for a long period of time. You should also avoid scented, chemical-filled hygiene products including pads and sprays.

The most important tip for prevention, however, is this: don't douche. As much as you may feel that douching cleanses your vaginal area, it actually upsets the balance of bacteria within the vagina, creating an environment ripe for a yeast infection. In fact, many douches contain vinegar, which actually promotes the growth of Candida and therefore could cause a yeast infection. If you absolutely must douche, try the extra mild products that are not scented and contain mild, natural ingredients.

If you get repeated yeast infections after following these tips, then it may be time to visit your medical professional and/or consider changes in your diet, choice of clothing or hygiene habits.