Yeast is always present in our bodies, especially in those warm and moist areas such as the mouth or the vagina. It is estimated that about a quarter of all healthy women have vaginal yeast in their bodies.
It would be helpful to know what causes a yeast infection so that possible actions can be taken to prevent it from happening.
Although you can treat a yeast infection, it would be better to be able to prevent it in the first place. Discussed in the following paragraphs are a few things that will help you to better understand what causes a yeast infection.
The main reason for this infection to occur is that there is an overgrowth of the yeast fungus in the body. As such, the population of this fungus in the body has increased to such an extent to cause an infection. In order to know what causes a yeast infection, you need to know the factors that contribute to this overgrowth.
1. Antibiotics
These not only kill the bad bacteria but also the good ones as well. Too much intake of antibiotics can drastically reduce the number of good bacteria in the body. The good bacteria will normally keep the population of fungus in check. However, with not enough good bacteria around, yeast overgrowth will result causing infections.
2. A weak immune system
Besides the good bacteria, our immune system also helps to prevent this overgrowth. People having HIV/AIDS or taking cortisone medications would have a compromised immune system. Their bodies are not strong enough to fight the fungus.
3. Pregnancy
Pregnant women are prone to getting yeast infections because of the stress of pregnancy. They do not eat well, suffer from lack of sleep, usually take antibiotics, and are therefore vulnerable to infections. During pregnancy, a woman must try to relax, eat well and get lots of rest.
4. Chemotherapy
This weakens the immune system and this is what causes a yeast infection.
5. Inner vagina injury
Chemotherapy may sometimes cause inner vaginal injury. Injuries on skin surfaces will allow the fungus to enter the tissues and grow, thus causing infections.
6. Being overweight or having diabetes
The yeast fungus thrives on sugar. Higher blood sugar levels due to overeating or diabetes will encourage the fungus to multiply. As such, sugar intake must be controlled in order to reduce the risk of yeast infections.
7. An unhealthy diet
Eating well will keep the immune system healthy. Otherwise, the body will not be strong enough to fight against bad bacteria and fungi.
8. Oral Contraceptives
These will disturb the balance of good and bad bacteria. When this balance is affected, infections are likely to come.
9. Feminine douches and spray, scented tampons, and/or toilet paper
These products can cause an imbalance of microorganisms in the vagina, hence making it more prone to infections.
10. Keeping a wet swimsuit on for long
This will provide the fungus with a place to breed. The vaginal area needs to be kept dry to prevent yeast infections.
11. Nylon underwear that is tight
Cotton underwear is preferable as it allows the vagina to be able to 'breathe'. Nylon materials tend to keep the moisture in that encouraging the yeast to grow. This is what causes a yeast infection.
12. Menopause
This makes a woman more sensitive to getting a yeast infection. This is because the body reduces the amount of estrogen produced and, as a result, will disturb the chemical balance in the vagina, creating an environment conducive to fungus growth.
What causes a yeast infection? The factors that contribute to yeast overgrowth in the body are the answers to the question.
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