Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment

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Medical Author:

Mary L Windle, PharmD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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• Vaginal Yeast Infection Overview
• Vaginal Yeast Infection Causes
• Vaginal Yeast Infection Risks
• Vaginal Yeast Infection Medical Treatment
• Antifungal Drugs
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors
• Read more on Vaginal Yeast Infection from MedicineNet
• Read more on Understanding Vaginal Yeast Infection Medications from Healthwise

Yeast infections are overgrowths of normally growing fungi in the vagina. Overgrowth inflames the vagina and creates discharge, odor, irritation, and/or itching. Normally growing bacteria in the body typically keep yeast fungi in check. If the natural balance of microorganisms is upset, the yeast may grow out of control. This is so common that 75% of all women experience a yeast infection at some time in their lives. Disruption of this natural balance may occur with any of the following:

• Use of antibiotics

• Diabetes

• A weakened immune system (for example from HIV/AIDS, steroid use, pregnancy, cancer chemotherapy or other drugs that weaken the immune system)

• Use of douches or feminine hygiene sprays

• Tight or noncotton underwear

• Hormonal changes

• Ovulation

• Menopause

• Pregnancy

• Use of birth control pills

• Use of hormone therapy

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