Vaginal Yeast Infections: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

INTRODUCTION: WHEN IT BURNS, IT’S NOT JUST PASSION

You’re going about your day, minding your own business, when suddenly—BAM!—your lady parts are itchier than a mosquito bite convention. And let’s not even talk about the burning sensation that makes you question every life decision that led to this moment. If this sounds familiar, congratulations—you might have a yeast infection! (Except, you know, without the celebration part.)

Yeast infections are ridiculously common, affecting 3 out of 4 women at some point in their lives. The good news? They’re treatable. The bad news? They can make you feel like your nether regions are staging a rebellion.

So, what causes this itchy, uncomfortable nightmare? More importantly—how do you make it go away ASAP? Let’s break it down, shall we?

WHAT EXACTLY IS A YEAST INFECTION?

A yeast infection, scientifically known as vaginal candidiasis, is an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans in your vagina. This fungus is normally present in small amounts, just chilling and behaving itself. But when the balance of your vaginal flora gets out of whack, Candida sees an opportunity to take over like a power-hungry dictator.

The result?

Intense itching (like, can-I-use-a-fork-to-scratch-this itching)
Burning (especially when peeing—yay!)
Thick, white discharge (often compared to cottage cheese—sorry, but facts are facts)
Redness & swelling (as if your vagina decided to throw a tantrum)

Now that we know what it is, let’s talk about what causes this unwelcome invasion.

WHAT CAUSES YEAST INFECTIONS?

1. Antibiotics (a.k.a. The Double-Edged Sword)

Antibiotics are great when you’re fighting off an infection, but they also kill off good bacteria (like Lactobacillus), which helps keep yeast in check. No good bacteria = yeast throwing a party in your vagina.

2. Hormonal Changes (Because Menopause, Periods & Pregnancy Just Weren’t Enough)

Pregnancy, birth control pills, and menopause can all alter estrogen levels, creating the perfect environment for yeast overgrowth. (Because why should anything ever be easy, right?)

3. High Sugar Diet (Sorry, But Your Sweet Tooth Isn’t Helping)

Candida LOVES sugar. If your diet is loaded with sweets, carbs, and processed junk, you might be unknowingly feeding the enemy.

4. Tight, Non-Breathable Clothing (Leggings, We’re Looking at You)

Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments. So if you’re living in tight leggings or synthetic underwear, you’re basically giving yeast the VIP treatment.

5. Stress (Because Of Course Stress Plays a Role)

Chronic stress weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off yeast overgrowth. Plus, stress can also disrupt your gut health, which is directly linked to vaginal health.

SYMPTOMS: HOW TO KNOW IF IT’S REALLY A YEAST INFECTION

Yeast infections have some telltale signs, but they can also be mistaken for other vaginal infections (like bacterial vaginosis or STIs).

Yeast Infection Symptoms:

Intense vaginal itching
Burning sensation, especially when peeing or during sex
Thick, white, odorless discharge (cottage cheese-like)
Redness & swelling of the vulva

What It’s NOT:

❌ If your discharge smells fishy → Might be bacterial vaginosis (BV).

❌ If you have yellow/green discharge → Could be an STI.

❌ If you have pelvic pain & fever → See a doctor ASAP.

Not sure? A doctor or at-home vaginal pH test can help confirm.

HOW TO GET RID OF A YEAST INFECTION (FAST!)

1. Over-the-Counter Anti fungal (The Quick Fix)

Your local pharmacy has anti fungal creams, suppositories, and oral pills that kill off yeast within a few days. Popular options include:

Monistat (Miconazole) – A cream or suppository that you insert into the vagina.
Fluconazole (Diflucan) – A single-dose prescription pill that kicks yeast to the curb.

2. Home Remedies (Because Grandma Knows Best)

Probiotics: Eating yogurt with live cultures or taking probiotic supplements can help restore healthy vaginal bacteria.
Coconut Oil: Has natural anti fungal properties—apply a little externally for relief.
Tea Tree Oil: A diluted tea tree oil solution can help, but be VERY careful—it’s potent and can burn if not diluted properly.
Apple Cider Vinegar Bath: A 20-minute soak in diluted apple cider vinegar can help balance vaginal pH.
Garlic (Maybe Not This One?): Some people swear by inserting a garlic clove, but proceed with caution—garlic can be irritating.

3. Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Future Infections

Wear breathable cotton underwear
Avoid douching (Your vagina cleans itself!)
Limit sugar & processed foods
Change out of sweaty clothes ASAP
Practice stress management (yoga, meditation, wine—your choice!)

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR?

If it’s your first yeast infection (so you don’t misdiagnose yourself)
If symptoms don’t improve after treatment
If you’re getting more than four infections per year (you might need long-term antifungal treatment)
If you have unusual symptoms (like pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge)

CAN MEN GET YEAST INFECTIONS? (SURPRISE—YES, THEY CAN!)

Men can absolutely get yeast infections, usually from unprotected sex with a partner who has one. Symptoms include:

Red, itchy rash on the penis
Burning sensation
White discharge under the foreskin

So yeah, yeast infections aren’t just a "women’s issue"—equality for all!

FINAL THOUGHTS : YOU’VE GOT THIS!

Yeast infections are annoying, itchy, and inconvenient—but they’re also totally treatable. With the right remedies, lifestyle changes, and a little patience, you’ll be back to feeling like yourself in no time.

And remember—your vagina is a warrior, not a worrier. Treat her well, and she’ll take care of you.

Book an appointment with Dr. Kameelah Phillips today at Calla Women's Health, the leading female menopause specialist in NYC!

Dr. Kameelah Phillips is affiliated with Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan, New York, As a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP), she focuses on patient care throughout all life stages, specializing in menopause and midlife healthcare.

Yeast Infections: Why Your Vagina is Suddenly on Fire (and What to Do About It!)