Things you need to know about vaginal yeast infection
As ladies, we tend to forget that one of the things we should take care of is everything “down there.”
We often hear our moms and titas telling us to make sure everything is clean to prevent a vaginal yeast infection.
But what is it?
According to Pinoy MD, a vaginal yeast infection is a common condition among women -- mostly adults -- wherein an imbalance of yeast cells causes intense itching, swelling, and irritation.
Take note that a healthy vagina consists of two properties: bacteria and yeast cells called “candida albicans” that help retain the pH levels of the reproductive system.
As stated by Dr. Raul Quillamor, Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in UERMMC, “Makikita rin natin ang vaginal yeast infection sa mga compromised women. Ito 'yung mga babaeng matagal nang naka-antibiotics o 'di kaya matagal na silang umiinom ng steroids, isa na rin diyan 'yung diabetes medicine.
“During pregnancy, maaring magkaroon ng immunomodulation ang isang babae… pwede rin maging common infection ito tuwing pregnancy.”
He added that the most common causes of yeast infection are lack of personal hygiene, wearing of tight-fitting clothes, stress, poor eating habits, and lack of sleep.
Dr. Raul Quillamor of UERMMC discusses the causes of yeast infection / Source: GMA News and Public Affairs (YouTube)
Because yeast infection is considered a taboo topic among women, here we talk about some common myths and misconceptions about this common condition.
MYTH #1: Is yeast infection a sexually transmitted disease?
Answer: No
According to Dr. Quillamor, yeast infections aren't considered an STD. Although sexual contact can spread it, women who aren't sexually active can also get them.
He explained, “Ang candidiasis ay hindi STD. Hindi ito nakukuha in contact kasi kahit single ang isang babae, if predisposed siya to have the infection, she will have the disease.
“Although, may mga cases na recurrent ang infection sa babae, so madalas ang candidiasis niya, 'yung partner tinitreat din.”
MYTH #2: Is there a specific age bracket?
Answer: No.
Dr. Quillamar explains that yeast infection can happen to anyone, but mostly to women who are sexually active or are taking massive doses of antibiotics.
“Walang specific age bracket na tinatarget itong candidiasis pero usually nakikita ito sa mga sexually active na mga babae.
“O hindi kaya 'yung mga babae na madalas umiinom ng antibiotics because of some other infection or 'yung mga may diabetes.”
MYTH #3: Do home remedies work?
Answer: No.
As far as treating a yeast infection is concerned, Dr. Quillamar says that it's best to consult a doctor first before doing andy D-I-Y treatments.
He says, “Walang basehan o scientific basis to prove that these home remedies work. Sana huwag na lang gamitin ito kasi baka lalong lumala ang infection.”
If you've developed a yeast infection, doctors may prescribe over-the-counter medications in the forms of creams and medicines.
Prevention
Prevent developing a yeast infection by practicing proper hygiene, wearing loose cotton fabrics, reaching for food or drinks that are rich in probiotics, and steering away from foods that are high in sugar.
Dr. Quillamar explains, “Proper hygiene is paramount. 'Pag tapos umihi, laging hugasan ang feminine area with mild soap and water. Importante na laging dry ang feminine area.”