Yeast infections are very common. While they can occur in men, women experience them the most, as nearly 75% of women will have one at some point in their lives.

To learn more about yeast infections and what their symptoms look like from our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team, read on!

What Is a Yeast Infection?

Vaginal yeast infection is a common fungal infection of the genitals. It causes inflammation, irritation, itching and vaginal discharge.

Yeast infections most commonly occur in the vagina, but Candida, the type of yeast that the body produces, is also present in other moist areas of the body, such as the mouth, throat and gut. We’ve listed the most common yeast infection symptoms below.

Yeast Infection Symptoms

• Itching, burning or irritation of the vagina or vulva, which is the tissue surrounding the vagina
• Pain or soreness in the vagina
• Vaginal burning with intercourse or urination
• A thick, white, odorless discharge that resembles cottage cheese, or a watery discharge
• Rash

What Causes a Yeast Infection?

As we said earlier, the body produces a natural yeast called Candida, or what’s medically known as candida albicans. The vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast, including candida, and bacteria. But when the balance of yeast and bacteria is disrupted, it can cause an overgrowth of candida and a penetration of the fungus into deeper vaginal cell layers, causing yeast infection symptoms.

If you believe you have a yeast infection and aren’t sure what to do about it, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center if any of the below-mentioned scenarios apply to you.

When to Visit a Doctor

• This is the first time you’ve had yeast infection symptoms.
• You’re not sure whether you have a yeast infection.
• Your symptoms aren’t relieved after treating with over-the-counter anti-fungal vaginal creams or suppositories.
• You develop other symptoms.

Need medical care? Don’t hesitate to visit our team at AFC Urgent Care Louisville today!