Candida is normally present in the mucus membranes of a healthy person, but when it overgrows, you could suffer from that and not even know it. While it commonly presents itself in the vagina resulting in a yeast infection, Candida can surface in the areas where the skin is moist, as well as in the mouth, also known as thrush.
Specific to yeast infections, however, you may develop a yeast infection if symptoms such as itching or irritation of the vagina is present. You may also notice a thick white discharge or have pain and soreness during intercourse.
The cause of Candida is the overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans, which oddly enough is normally present in the vagina, but is kept in check by other "good" bacteria. However, when conditions change and become more inviting for the fungus to grow excessively, it replaces the good bacteria and Candida develops.
While common, the best way to prevent yeast infection is to follow these rules: wear cotton underpants, do not use deodorants or feminine hygiene sprays, avoid powders and deodorant tampons, and, above all, do not douche. It is a common misconception that douching will alleviate the infection. In fact, what it does is take away the normal bacteria, which is present in the vagina as a protection against infection.
If you develop Candida and need help in diagnosing and treating the infection, you may want to talk to several health care practitioners. The reason being is that because there have been no definitive studies to ascertain the cause and cure of Candida, many women have found it difficult to find a doctor who is willing to treat them. Or they have encountered doctors who could not or would not accept the fact this is a serious infection, one which could develop into a more serious, systemic infection.
Doctors who are aware of Candida and its effects have offered this advice to women, “Get somebody to take you seriously.” Others have agreed that doctors need to reassess their attitude towards Candida and understand the seriousness of the infection, especially if it spreads to the bowel or throughout the body.
If you are not satisfied with your doctor, find another. If he or she is non-sympathetic to your needs, then keep searching until you find a doctor who is willing to properly diagnose and treat the infection and take every precaution to ensure it has not spread.
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