Why Your Yeast Infection Should Be Evaluated By Your OBGYN

As most ladies know, yeast infections are quite common. You know you have one when you suddenly get that burning sensation when urinating and a discharge develops. You’ve had recurring bouts that you have successfully treated at home, so what might be some reasons why your yeast infection should be evaluated by your OBGYN?

Let’s Start With The Causes of Yeast Infections

A yeast infection is an infection of the vagina and vulva leading to itching, pain, a discharge, and general irritation. This kind of vaginitis comes from an overgrowth of yeast known as Candida Albicans.

Birth control medications and antibiotics can cause yeast infections especially if you have a compromised immune system. Other causes include pregnancy and uncontrolled diabetes.

Common Symptoms Of Yeast Infections

For those women who have not yet had a yeast infection, look out for these signs. In addition to burning and pain during urinating, women with yeast infections deal with itching, pain during intercourse, a thick discharge which can be similar to cottage cheese, redness and swelling of the vulva, and a watery discharge.

Specific Reasons Why Your Yeast Infection Should Be Evaluated by DOCTOR/PRACTICE

• If you have never had a yeast infection before, and you develop the above symptoms, see your OBGYN to be sure it isn’t anything more serious. You could have a urinary tract infection (UTI) and need a different treatment.
• If you have recently had sex with a new partner, it is best to see your doctor. Some symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can mimic those of a yeast infection.
• See your physician if you have a yeast infection while pregnant as they need to approve even over-the-counter meds.
• If you have 4 or more yeast infections within a year, you may need treatment for 6 months with an anti-fungal cream. This is known as recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.
• Frequent yeast infections could indicate you have diabetes.
• If your symptoms are different than normal, you may need a stronger prescription vaginal cream.

Tips To Reduce Yeast Infections

Women can actually encourage yeast infections by wearing tight pants or jeans. To reduce the incidence, only wear cotton underwear or no underwear even while sleeping, frequently change pads or tampons while menstruating, wear loose clothing, and always remove wet clothing like bathing suits as soon as possible.