A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a fungal infection. It is caused by an overgrowth of the yeast genus Candida, with C. albans being the most common culprit. Small amounts of yeast within the human body are normal, but certain conditions and drugs can cause the yeast to grow to an abnormal degree.
Yeast infections can affect several different parts of the body, including the genitals, the mouth and/or throat, a baby’s bottom and the blood stream. An oral yeast infection is sometimes called thrush, while one affecting a baby’s bottom is often called diaper rash. Symptoms and treatments vary depending on the body part affected. At South Lake OB/GYN, our team will work with you to create a customized treatment plan to relieve you of your genital yeast infection.
Yeast Infection of the Genitals
Vaginal yeast infections are common and affect many women. They cause a vaginal discharge that is white and clumpy like cottage cheese. Other symptoms can include redness, soreness and extreme itching in the vaginal area.
Men can get these infections, too. They affect the penis and cause a red rash and a burning or itching sensation on the tip of the penis. Genital yeast infections can be transmitted by sex and, therefore, need to be treated.
There are over-the-counter medications that can help to treat this infection. They take the form of a suppository or cream that can be put inside the vagina. However, the patient should still see our doctor beforehand to get a correct diagnosis and learn about other treatment options that we have available.
Our doctor may prescribe a specific medication to a patient who has never had a yeast infection before or doesn’t get them very often. If the patient gets recurrent yeast infections, our doctor may prescribe anti-fungal medications that the patient will have to take every day for up to two weeks, and then once a week for six months, depending on the situation. The doctor may also recommend taking probiotics as a preventive measure. Probiotics can be found in some foods like yogurt, or they can be taken as a supplement.
Personalized Treatment
At South Lake OB/GYN in Clermont, our team of medical professionals is committed to helping women achieve optimal wellness and health. If you think you may have a yeast infection, don’t self-diagnose or self-medicate. Schedule an appointment at our office so that our team can get to the bottom of your infection and find an effective solution.