Vaginal yeast infections can cause itching and burning in the genital area or an unusual vaginal discharge. In many patients, inflammation of the external genitalia is also observed – for example, the labia. In many cases, however, vaginal yeast infections do not cause any symptoms. What are the causes of vaginal yeast infections? These infections occur when the growth and development of mycotic pathogens in the vagina increases. As a result, inflammation occurs. Along with bacterial infections – bacterial vaginosis, fungal infections are among the most common causes of inflammation in the vagina and on the external part of the female genital organs. Certain processes and stages of a woman’s life are a predisposing factor for the preferential development of fungal infections. Such are pregnancy or the transition to menopause. Other factors that increase the risk include a weakened immune system and taking certain medications. Treatment of vaginal yeast infections is often effective with short courses of vaginal suppositories or creams. In some cases, taking therapeutic agents in the form of tablets is also appropriate. Symptoms of vaginal yeast infections The characteristic symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are itching, an unpleasant burning sensation and pain in the genitals. The mucous membranes covering the vagina redden and a specific whitish coating appears on them. Symptoms may worsen a few days before the start of menstruation. When the inflammation spreads to the external genitals – for example, the labia, redness and swelling are also observed. Vaginal fungal infections often lead to the appearance of vaginal discharge with a whitish-yellow color. It can have a different consistency and usually does not have a specific smell. In some cases, the discharge is watery or comes out in the form of small lumps. Sexual intercourse can be painful – dyspareunia in the presence of a fungal infection. When the urinary tract is affected and inflamed, pain and discomfort during urination are also observed. Vaginal yeast infections are usually caused by fungi of the Candida species and in particular Candida albicans. These fungi are common inhabitants of the mucous membrane that covers the vagina. Their populations, however, are usually small, so they do not cause infections. The healthy balance of the microbiome in the vagina is sometimes disturbed – for example, during pregnancy or taking certain therapeutic effects. What factors increase the risk of developing such infections? Estrogen levels in the body rise significantly during pregnancy. This can disrupt the healthy balance in the vaginal microbiome and increase the likelihood of developing a vaginal yeast infection. Taking contraceptives affects the serum concentrations of sex hormones and this may be the cause of an imbalance in the vaginal microflora. This, in turn,is also a risk predisposing factor for the development of fungal infections. Certain diseases increase the risk of developing such infections. Among them, diabetes and other conditions that weaken the effective protective functions of the immune system are of leading importance. Taking various medications can also increase the risk. These include antibiotics, corticosteroids, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Other factors that increase the risk of developing vaginal yeast infections include: Stress; Use of intimate care soaps that have a gentle formula; Wearing tight clothing and those made of synthetic fabrics; Excessive sweating; Wearing pantyhose, underwear or sanitary napkins that steam the skin. These factors are a predisposing factor for the overgrowth of fungi in the vagina, which leads to the development of infection and inflammation. References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7151053/