Yeast Infections: Be Aware of the Causes

Yeast infections are one of the most common infections facing women today. Why? Because yeast is part of the body's normal everyday organisms.

Normally yeast is harmless. It peacefully co-exists with helpful bacteria in our bodies. But if the peaceful co-existence or balance changes in our bodies, the yeast can quickly overgrow and become what we know as a yeast infection.

It's important to know the conditions, which can lead to yeast overgrowth in our body. This way we are less apt to fall into the repetitive cycle of yeast infections.

The first cause of yeast infections is the use of antibiotics. With an antibiotic, not only are the 'bad' bacteria killed, but also the good bacteria as well. The good bacteria are the ones helping keep yeast in balance.

The second major cause of yeast infections in women is a hormone imbalance. Hormone imbalances can happen in many different ways. Birth control pills, menopause and even pregnancy can lead to a shift in hormone levels. With the shifting hormone levels the yeast can potentially overgrow leading to a yeast infection.

One little known cause of yeast infections is wearing tight clothing. Thongs, tight jeans and form fitting work out clothes can set up a perfect environment for yeast to grow. Yeast grows best in warm, moist environments. Clothing which does not allow for moisture to evaporate can quickly set up a place where yeast can multiply without anything to stop its growth.

Another cause of yeast infections is irritation of the sensitive vaginal area. A woman's vagina has a unique system allowing it to stay healthy and protect itself. When a woman uses scented personal hygiene sprays or douching, the natural protective system is disrupted. The disruption of the natural protective system allows the yeast to overgrow and cause a yeast infection.

There are many easy to use home remedies for yeast infections. One of the most widely used is yogurt. Including yogurt as part of a daily diet can be an easy to do remedy for yeast infections. When buying the yogurt make sure the label says active cultures of lactobacillus acidophilus. The bacteria lactobacillus acidophilus helps with the rebalancing of the body.

According to Dr. Susan Hoffstetter over 75% of women misdiagnose a yeast infection, "Just because it itches doesn't mean it's a yeast infection."

Being aware of the causes can let you decrease your chances of having a yeast infection now and in the future. It is important to check with your healthcare provider as many vaginal infections look the same and have similar symptoms.