How to Tell if You Have a Yeast Infection? [Quiz]

Trying to figure out whether or not you’ve got a yeast infection is no fun. Chances are, you’ve already experienced some unpleasant side effects, and you’re trying to figure out if it’s an infection or as one might dread—something else. Know where you might stand and if it’s time to check with your doctor.

What’s a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection is a fungal infection that causes severe itching, discharge, and overall irritation. Some of these side effects are common with other conditions, so it’s important to be sure of what’s happening. Approximately 75% of women will contract at least one yeast infection in their lifetime, and of these, up to 45% will have more than one.

Symptoms

Mild symptoms are vaginal soreness, redness, or swelling, burning sensation, and overall itching and irritation of the vaginal area. More severe symptoms include thick, white vaginal discharge, watery discharge, and vaginal rash.

Causes

It can be alarming to experience any of these symptoms, but they can be treated easily with medication. Yeast infections are most often caused by the use of antibiotics, being pregnant, diabetes, low functioning immune system, and taking medications that alter estrogen levels.

Luckily, if you’re reading this in horror, worry not. It’s possible to prevent yeast infections with these following tactics:

• Consumption of probiotics
• Avoid tight clothing
• Wipe from front to back
• Avoid the use of scented products in the vaginal area
• Do not stay in wet clothes

If you think you might have a yeast infection, stay calm, and consult with your physician for evaluation. Yeast infections, while less than ideal, can be zapped and gone in no time with the proper treatment and a few lifestyle changes.