While yeast infections are uncomfortable to experience, they’re not usually serious. In fact, more than 1 million women in the U.S. have a yeast infection every year!

To learn more about yeast infections and what their symptoms look like, read on as our AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway team shares the facts.

What Is a Yeast Infection?

Vaginal yeast infection is a common fungal infection of the genitals. It causes inflammation, irritation, itching and vaginal discharge. It most commonly affects women, but men can actually can get it too.

Vaginal yeast infections, also called vaginal candidiasis, are experienced by as many as three out of four women during their lifetime. Most women experience at least two infections.

Yeast Infection Symptoms

• Itching, burning or irritation of the vagina or vulva, which is the tissue surrounding the vagina
• Pain or soreness in the vagina
• Vaginal burning with intercourse or urination
• A thick, white, odorless discharge that resembles cottage cheese, or a watery discharge
• Rash

What Causes a Yeast Infection?

The most common yeast infection cause is a type of fungus called candida albicans. The vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast, including candida, and bacteria. But when the balance of yeast and bacteria are disrupted, it can cause an overgrowth of candida and a penetration of the fungus into deeper vaginal cell layers, causing yeast infection symptoms.

If you believe you have a yeast infection and aren’t sure what to do about it, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center if any of the below-mentioned scenarios apply to you.

When to Visit a Doctor

• This is the first time you’ve had yeast infection symptoms.
• You’re not sure whether you have a yeast infection.
• Your symptoms aren’t relieved after treating with over-the-counter antifungal vaginal creams or suppositories.
• You develop other symptoms.

Need medical care? Don’t hesitate to visit our team at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway today!