Yeast Infections (Disease/Disorder Overview‪)‬

What Is It? A yeast infection in an overgrowth of fungus in the vagina characterized by vaginal itching, burning and discharge. Vaginal yeast infections, also called candida vaginal infections or candidiasis, are common and easily treated in most women. Candida is a fungus. It commonly exists in small amounts in the vagina, mouth and gastrointestinal tract. When the fungus overgrows in the vagina, a yeast infection develops. This causes uncomfortable symptoms such as vaginal itching, burning and discharge. Uncontrolled diabetes and the use of antibiotics, the contraceptive sponge, the diaphragm and spermicides are associated with more frequent yeast infections. Women who use hormonal birth control birth control pills, the birth control patch or the vaginal ring may also have more yeast infections.