UTI Vaginal Yeast

How to Know If You Have a Yeast Infection

How to Know If You Have a Yeast Infection

The material provided below is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. You should always seek medical advice before consuming any new medicines or supplements. AZO® products referenced on this website are not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease such as overactive bladder, urinary tract infections, or vaginal infections.

A healthy vaginal environment is one that maintains a moderately low (acidic) pH level, and a healthy balance of yeast and good bacteria. When that balance changes, yeast overgrowth can result in candidiasis, a common yeast infection. It’s so common that 75% of women experience at least one in their lifetime.1 A yeast infection is highly treatable, but left unchecked it can progress into more serious conditions. Recurring yeast infections may also be an indication of underlying health problems.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?

Common symptoms of vaginal yeast infections include itching, swelling, soreness, rash/redness, pain/burning during urination or sex, and a gray or white clumpy discharge often likened to cottage cheese.2 Individual experiences will vary, but a trained medical professional can assess the infection and perform a culture if necessary to confirm the diagnosis. In the meantime, a Vaginal pH test can help determine the type of vaginal infection.  

HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?

Candida albicans yeast is a natural resident of the body, as are certain beneficial bacteria—and it’s the most common cause of yeast infections.2 A yeast infection is the result of an upset in the balance of this good yeast and bacteria, resulting in an overgrowth of yeast and a reduction in the amount of healthy bacteria in the vaginal microbiome.2

This change can be the result of many things—menstruation, a high-sugar diet, antibiotics, or even stress and lack of sleep.2 Other causes, such as uncontrolled diabetes (which can affect your sugar levels) or immunosuppressive treatments or conditions can also affect the body’s ability to maintain a low vaginal pH level.2

SO, WHAT DO I DO?

There are ways to help reduce your risk for a yeast infection. Eat a well-balanced diet, low in processed sugar. Wash the vaginal area with warm water and a mild soap—limit your use of antibacterial soaps, douching, feminine sprays or deodorants. Stick to underclothes made of natural fibers like cotton—leave the nylon pantyhose and thongs behind.2

But if symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection do arise, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Many vaginal infections share symptoms and there’s more than one strain of yeast that can result in an overgrowth—a doctor will be able to confirm.

The vast majority of vaginal yeast infections result from an overgrowth of Candida albicans already present in the bodyFor these, a one-three day regimen of antifungal treatment like miconazole is commonly available over the counter, whether by suppository or topical ovule cream.1

For symptoms associated with yeast and vaginal infections, you may want to try AZO® Yeast Plus. AZO® Yeast Plus relieves symptoms like  itching, burning, and occasional discharge and odor  Or try AZO Boric Acid suppositories. They promote normal vaginal pH and help with bothersome odor. You should always see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment as untreated infections can lead to more serious issues.

If you want to be proactive, take AZO® Complete Feminine Balance, a clinically studied probiotic designed to help replenish the vagina’s natural balance of good bacteria.


NOTE: AZO® Yeast Plus will not prevent a yeast or vaginal infection.
1 https://www.medicinenet.com/yeast_infection_in_women_and_men/article.htm
https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-yeast-infection#symptoms